How To Freeze Tamales
Learn how to freeze tamales step-by-step with these easy instructions.
Equipment
- 1 Roll of plastic wrap or aluminum foil
- 1 Box of freezer bags or airtight containers
- 1 Permanent Marker for Labeling
Ingredients & Supplies
- 1 batch cooked tamales
Instructions
Freezing Cooked Tamales
- Let cooked tamales cool to room temperature before freezing.
- Wrap each tamale tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped tamales in a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Arrange tamales in a single layer in the container.
- Remove air, seal tightly, and label with the date.
- Freeze your tamales immediately.
Freezing Uncooked Tamales
- Prepare dough and fillings, ensuring they are cool before wrapping.
- Wrap uncooked tamales more tightly than cooked ones.
- Use airtight containers specifically for uncooked tamales.
- Minimize air pockets and maximize space in the container.
- Seal tightly and label with the date and 'uncooked.'
- Freeze your tamales immediately.
Freezing Tamale Fillings
- Choose fillings that freeze well, like meat-based or hard cheese fillings.
- Fully cook meat fillings and stabilize cheese with cornstarch.
- Use silicone molds or airtight containers for fillings.
- Pack tightly to avoid air and potential freezer burn.
- Double-check seals and label them with the type of filling and date.
- Freeze your tamale filling immediately.
Notes
Tamales can be frozen for up to six months. Label with the date for quality control. Cooked tamales tend to last longer, thaw easier, and keep their shape in the freezer better than uncooked tamales. Meat-based fillings also fare better frozen than vegetable, fruit, or cheese fillings. Check out my guide on how to reheat tamales to know when they're safe to consume.