MMMMM----- Recipe via Meal-Master (tm) v8.06
 
      Title: Sweet Raisin Tamales (Tamales Dulces)
 Categories: Desserts, Mexican, Holiday
      Yield: 12 Tamales
 
MMMMM----------------------PILONCILLO SYRUP---------------------------
      1 c  Water; less water for
           - sweeter tamales
      1    Cinnamon stick
      5    Cloves
      8 oz Piloncillo

MMMMM-----------------------TAMALE DOUGH-----------------------------
    1/2 lb Lard
    1/2 ts Baking powder
    1/2 ts Salt
      1 lb Masa; fresh ground
    1/2 c  Syrup
    3/4 c  Raisins; soaked in water
           - 30 minutes and drained
 
  Piloncillo Syrup:
  
  Bring water with cinnamon stick and cloves to a boil; remove from
  heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes. Add piloncillo; on low
  heat, let the piloncillo melt. Remove from the heat, cover, and let
  cool.
  
  Make Masa:
  
  Place lard in a large stand mixer and mix until fluffy, scraping
  sides so the lard stays in the center of the mixing bowl. The flat
  beater is the ideal accessory for mixing. Add the baking powder and
  salt to the lard and mix together. Add the masa and mix. Slowly add
  the cooled syrup and raisins and fold into the masa and mix until
  combined.
  
  Steam Tamales:
  
  Use a deep pot or tamale steamer to steam tamales. If using a tamale
  steamer fill with water up to the fill line. Set the tamale rack
  over the water. Place tamales upright, with fold against the sides
  of the other tamales to keep them from unfolding. Cover pot with a
  tightly fitting lid. Set heat on high and bring to a boil; cook
  15 minutes. Lower heat and simmer for 1 to 1-1/2 hours. Keep lid on
  tightly. To test if done, put one tamale on a plate and take off
  the husk. If it comes off without sticking to the tamale they are
  done.
  
  Notes:
  
  You can use cranberries instead of raisins if you prefer.
  
  Recipe by Yvette Marquez
  
  Recipe FROM: muybuenocookbook.com
 
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