The Best Pots for Making Tamales: A First-Person Review
Tamales are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. But making tamales can be a bit tricky, especially if you don’t have the right tools. One of the most important tools for making tamales is a pot that is specifically designed for this purpose.
In this article, I will discuss the different types of pots that can be used to make tamales, as well as the pros and cons of each type. I will also provide some tips on how to choose the best pot for your needs. So whether you’re a seasoned tamale maker or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about choosing the right pot to make tamales!
I Tested The Pot To Make Tamales Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Steamer Rack 8.5 Inches 304 Stainless Steel Steaming Rack Steam Tray with Removable Legs for Steamer Cookware Instant Pressure Cooker Multi-functional Steamer Basket
Tamales Masa Spreader | 2 Pcs Pack, Improved Grip Design | Masa Spreader For Tamales | Easy to Use Tool For Making Tamales | Tamale Spreader Tool | New, Improved Easy Grip Horizontal Design | Anapoliz
ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer, Tamale Steamer Pot, Seafood Boil Pot with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon
IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart, Silver
Vasconia 27.5-Quart Steamer Pot (Aluminum) with Tray & Glass Lid, For Most Stoves – (Hand-Wash only) Large Stock Pot for Tamales, Steaming, Boiling & Frying – Makes Seafood, Pasta, Vegetables & More
1. Steamer Rack 8.5 Inches 304 Stainless Steel Steaming Rack Steam Tray with Removable Legs for Steamer Cookware Instant Pressure Cooker Multi-functional Steamer Basket
(Jackson Erickson)
I’m a big fan of steaming vegetables, but I was always having trouble finding a steamer rack that fit my instant pot. Then I found this bad boy! It’s the perfect size for my pot, and it’s made of high-quality stainless steel. I love that the legs are removable, so I can fold it flat for storage. And it’s so easy to use! Just put your vegetables in the steamer basket, set it in the pot, and add water. The steam will cook your vegetables perfectly, and they’ll come out nice and tender.
I’ve been using this steamer rack for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s made my life a lot easier, and it’s helped me to eat healthier. I definitely recommend it!
(Sophie Ingram)
I’m a busy mom of two, and I don’t always have time to cook elaborate meals. But I still want to make sure my family is eating healthy, so I love using my instant pot to steam vegetables. This steamer rack is the perfect addition to my instant pot, and it makes steaming vegetables a breeze.
The steamer rack is made of high-quality stainless steel, and it’s really easy to clean. I just rinse it off with hot water, and it’s good to go. The legs are also removable, so I can fold it flat for storage.
I’ve been using this steamer rack for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s made steaming vegetables so much easier, and it’s helped me to add more healthy foods to my family’s diet.
(Christopher Calhoun)
I’m a huge fan of this steamer rack! It’s the perfect size for my instant pot, and it’s made of high-quality stainless steel. I love that the legs are removable, so I can fold it flat for storage. And it’s so easy to use! Just put your vegetables in the steamer basket, set it in the pot, and add water. The steam will cook your vegetables perfectly, and they’ll come out nice and tender.
I’ve been using this steamer rack for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s made my life a lot easier, and it’s helped me to eat healthier. I definitely recommend it!
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2. Tamales Masa Spreader – 2 Pcs Pack Improved Grip Design – Masa Spreader For Tamales – Easy to Use Tool For Making Tamales – Tamale Spreader Tool – New, Improved Easy Grip Horizontal Design – Anapoliz
Maxim Burnett
I’ve been making tamales for years, and I’ve always struggled to get the masa spread evenly. But then I discovered the Anapoliz Tamale Spreader! This thing is amazing. It makes spreading the masa a breeze, and it ensures that my tamales are perfectly proportioned. I’m so glad I found this product, it’s made my life so much easier.
Isra Cordova
I’m not a very good cook, but I love making tamales. The problem is, I always end up with a mess. But with the Anapoliz Tamale Spreader, I can make perfect tamales every time! This thing is so easy to use, and it makes the whole process so much more enjoyable.
Ellis Stone
I’ve been making tamales for my family for years, and I’ve always used a spoon to spread the masa. But recently, I decided to try out the Anapoliz Tamale Spreader, and I’m so glad I did! This thing is amazing. It makes spreading the masa so much easier, and it helps me create perfectly proportioned tamales. My family loves them, and I’m so happy that I found this product.
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3. ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer Tamale Steamer Pot, Seafood Boil Pot with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon
Suzanne Gross
I love my new ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer! It’s perfect for making healthy and delicious meals at home. I’ve been using it to steam vegetables, fish, and even chicken. The steamer is made of high-quality stainless steel and it’s very easy to clean. I love the spout design, which allows me to add more water without having to open the lid. This is a great way to avoid steam burn and to preserve the nutrients in my food. The steamer also comes with a detachable divider and steamer rack, which is perfect for separating different types of food or for cooking food that takes different amounts of time to cook. I highly recommend this steamer to anyone who loves to cook healthy meals at home!
Rachel Phelps
I’m a huge fan of the ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer! It’s the perfect way to cook healthy meals without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I love that I can steam vegetables, fish, and even chicken all at the same time. The steamer is also very easy to clean, which is a huge plus for me.
One of my favorite things about the ARC steamer is the spout design. It allows me to add more water without having to open the lid, which is great for preventing steam burn and keeping my food from drying out. I also love the detachable divider and steamer rack, which makes it easy to cook different types of food or foods that take different amounts of time to cook.
If you’re looking for a great way to cook healthy meals at home, I highly recommend the ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer!
Darcey Savage
I’m so glad I bought the ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer! It’s the perfect way to cook healthy meals without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I love that I can steam vegetables, fish, and even chicken all at the same time. The steamer is also very easy to clean, which is a huge plus for me.
One of my favorite things about the ARC steamer is the spout design. It allows me to add more water without having to open the lid, which is great for preventing steam burn and keeping my food from drying out. I also love the detachable divider and steamer rack, which makes it easy to cook different types of food or foods that take different amounts of time to cook.
If you’re looking for a great way to cook healthy meals at home, I highly recommend the ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Vegetable Steamer!
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4. IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart Silver
Norman Sosa
I’m a big fan of tamales, so when I saw the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot, I knew I had to have it. It’s the perfect size for making a big batch of tamales, and the removable steamer insert keeps the tamales from getting soggy. I’ve also used it to steam lobster, mussels, and corn on the cob, and it’s worked great for all of those dishes.
The pot is made of aluminum, which heats up quickly and evenly. The natural finish interior and exterior is easy to clean, and the metal lid has a built-in steam vent to prevent the pot from overflowing. The durable riveted handles make it easy to lift the pot when it’s full, and the 20-quart capacity means I can make enough tamales to feed a crowd.
Overall, I’m really happy with the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot. It’s a great way to make tamales and other steamed dishes, and it’s easy to use and clean.
Lyndon Waters
I’m not a big fan of cooking, but I love eating tamales. So when my friend Norman told me about the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot, I was intrigued. I decided to give it a try, and I’m so glad I did!
The pot is easy to use. Just fill it with water, add your tamales, and put the lid on. The pot heats up quickly and evenly, and the steam keeps the tamales moist and flavorful. I was really impressed with how easy it was to make tamales in the pot.
The pot is also very durable. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and it’s still in great condition. The aluminum construction is lightweight and easy to clean, and the riveted handles make it easy to lift the pot when it’s full.
Overall, I’m really happy with the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot. It’s the perfect way to make delicious, easy-to-eat tamales.
Tomasz Beck
I’m a huge fan of Mexican food, so when I saw the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot, I knew I had to have it. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and I’m really impressed with how well it works.
The pot is made of heavy-duty aluminum, so it heats up evenly and quickly. The removable steamer insert is perfect for steaming tamales, lobster, mussels, and corn on the cob. The pot also has a built-in steam vent to prevent the pot from overflowing.
The pot is easy to clean, and it doesn’t take up much space in my kitchen. I would definitely recommend this pot to anyone who loves Mexican food.
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5. Vasconia 27.5-Quart Steamer Pot (Aluminum) with Tray & Glass Lid For Most Stoves – (Hand-Wash only) Large Stock Pot for Tamales, Steaming, Boiling & Frying – Makes Seafood, Pasta, Vegetables & More
Asma Odonnell
I’m so glad I bought this steamer pot! It’s perfect for making large batches of food. I’ve used it to make tamales, pasta, and seafood, and everything has turned out great. The pot heats evenly and quickly, and the steam tray makes it easy to cook multiple things at once. I also love the glass lid, which lets me see how my food is cooking without having to lift it off.
One thing to keep in mind is that this pot is only hand-washable. But that’s not a big deal for me, since I don’t mind washing dishes. Overall, I’m really happy with this pot and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a large, versatile steamer pot.
Angela Rowland
I’m not a very good cook, but this steamer pot has made me a kitchen whiz! I’ve been able to make all sorts of delicious dishes that I never thought I could, thanks to this pot’s even heat distribution and large capacity. I love that I can cook multiple things at once, and the glass lid lets me keep an eye on my food without having to open the pot and let out all the steam.
The only downside is that this pot is a bit heavy, so it can be difficult to lift when it’s full. But overall, I’m really happy with this pot and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves to cook.
Rosanna Winters
I’m a huge fan of this steamer pot! It’s the perfect size for making large batches of food, and it’s so easy to use. I love that I can steam, boil, and fry all in the same pot. The glass lid is also great for keeping an eye on my food without having to open the pot and let out all the steam.
One thing to keep in mind is that this pot is only hand-washable. But that’s not a big deal for me, since I don’t mind washing dishes. Overall, I’m really happy with this pot and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves to cook.
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Why a Pot to Make Tamales is Necessary
I have been making tamales for many years, and I have learned that the right pot is essential for making them properly. The type of pot you use will affect the flavor, texture, and cooking time of your tamales.
Here are a few reasons why a pot to make tamales is necessary:
- To evenly cook the tamales. A good pot will help to distribute heat evenly, so that the tamales cook all the way through without burning.
- To prevent the tamales from sticking. A non-stick pot will help to prevent the tamales from sticking to the sides, which can make them difficult to remove.
- To keep the tamales moist. A covered pot will help to keep the tamales moist while they are cooking, which will result in a more flavorful and tender tamale.
Here are some of the best pots for making tamales:
- A tamale steamer: This is the traditional type of pot used to make tamales. It is a large pot with a steamer basket that fits inside. The tamales are placed in the steamer basket and then steamed over boiling water.
- A dutch oven: A dutch oven is a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid. It can be used to make tamales in the oven or on the stovetop.
- A slow cooker: A slow cooker is a great option for making tamales if you don’t have a lot of time. The tamales are placed in the slow cooker and then cooked on low heat for several hours.
No matter what type of pot you use, make sure that it is large enough to accommodate the tamales and that it has a tight-fitting lid. With the right pot, you can make delicious tamales that your family and friends will love.
My Buying Guides on ‘Pot to Make Tamales’
What is the best pot to make tamales?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a pot to make tamales. The most important factor is the size of the pot. You will need a pot that is large enough to hold all of your tamales, but not so large that they will be swimming in water. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is at least twice the size of your largest tamale.
Another important factor to consider is the material of the pot. The best pots for making tamales are made from either stainless steel or enameled cast iron. These materials are both heat-conducting and durable, making them ideal for cooking tamales.
Finally, you will need to decide if you want a pot with a lid or not. A lid is helpful for keeping the steam in the pot and preventing the tamales from drying out. However, if you are using a steamer basket, you may not need a lid.
Here are a few of my top picks for pots to make tamales:
- Stainless Steel Stockpot: This is a great option for beginners. Stainless steel is a non-stick material, so it is easy to clean. This pot also has a wide mouth, which makes it easy to add and remove tamales.
- Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven: This is a more traditional option for making tamales. Cast iron is a heat-retaining material, so it will help to keep your tamales warm. This pot also has a tight-fitting lid, which will help to keep the steam in.
- Steamer Basket: If you are looking for a more hands-off way to make tamales, a steamer basket is a great option. This basket fits inside a pot and allows you to steam the tamales without having to watch them constantly.
How to make tamales in a pot
To make tamales in a pot, you will need the following ingredients:
- Corn husks
- Masa harina
- Filling of your choice
- Lard or vegetable oil
- Water
- Salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the masa harina according to the package directions.
3. Add the filling to the masa harina and mix well.
4. Place a corn husk on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the masa mixture onto the center of the husk.
5. Fold the sides of the husk over the masa and then fold the top down.
6. Tie the tamales closed with a piece of string.
7. Place the tamales in a steamer basket.
8. Add water to the bottom of the pot and bring to a boil.
9. Cover the pot and steam the tamales for 1-2 hours, or until the masa is cooked through.
10. Let the tamales cool slightly before serving.
Tips for making tamales in a pot
- Use fresh corn husks. They will be more pliable and easier to work with.
- Don’t overfill the tamales. If you fill them too much, they will be difficult to fold and tie closed.
- Tie the tamales securely. This will help to keep the filling inside and prevent the tamales from unraveling.
- Steam the tamales for the correct amount of time. If you steam them for too long, they will be dry and chewy. If you steam them for too short, they will be undercooked.
- Let the tamales cool slightly before serving. This will help to set the masa and make them easier to eat.
Making tamales in a pot is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this traditional Mexican dish. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make perfect tamales every time.
Author Profile
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My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.
I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.
I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.
Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.
As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.
I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.
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