Tamal de Elote
Costa RicanLunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Tamal de Elote is a cherished Costa Rican dish that celebrates the country's abundant corn harvest. Unlike the savory masa-based tamales found elsewhere, these sweet corn tamales are made from fresh corn kernels blended into a smooth batter with butter, milk, and sugar. The mixture is traditionally wrapped in corn husks and steamed until tender. Each bite offers a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors with a wonderfully moist texture. These tamales are commonly enjoyed during family gatherings, weekend breakfasts, or as an afternoon snack paired with café con leche. The preparation is a social activity in many Costa Rican homes, with families gathering to assemble the tamales together.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Remove husks from fresh corn ears carefully, keeping them intact for wrapping. Rinse husks and soak in warm water for 20 minutes.

  2. Cut corn kernels from cobs using a sharp knife. You should have about 6 cups of kernels.

  3. In a blender or food processor, combine corn kernels, milk, and melted butter. Blend until smooth but still slightly textured, about 2-3 minutes.

  4. Transfer corn mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.

  5. Beat eggs lightly and fold into the corn batter until fully incorporated.

  6. Drain corn husks and pat dry with a clean towel.

  7. Place 2-3 tablespoons of corn mixture in the center of each husk. Fold sides inward, then fold bottom up and top down to create a packet. Tie with kitchen string or strips of husk if needed.

  8. Arrange tamales standing upright in a steamer basket or large pot with steamer insert.

  9. Add water to pot below steamer level. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat.

  10. Cover and steam for 45 minutes, checking water level occasionally and adding more if needed.

  11. Tamales are done when they pull away easily from the husks and feel firm to the touch.

  12. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with sour cream on the side.

Tamal de Elote

3.5 (20)

Sweet corn tamales wrapped in corn husks, a beloved Costa Rican comfort food made with fresh corn, butter, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for breakfast or afternoon coffee.

medium
1h 15m
8 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups corn, kernels cut from fresh cobs
  • 1/2 cups milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 pieces eggs, lightly beaten

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons honey

For Serving

  • 1 cups sour-cream (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For best results, use the freshest corn possible - the sweeter the corn, the better your tamales will taste.
If fresh corn is unavailable, frozen corn kernels can work but reduce the milk slightly.
The consistency should be similar to thick pancake batter.
Some families add a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
You can also make a savory version by reducing sugar and adding cheese.
Leftover tamales freeze beautifully - wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
For variation, try adding raisins or a small piece of cheese in the center before wrapping.
These tamales pair wonderfully with Costa Rican coffee or hot chocolate.
Tamal de Elote | Cuisinao