Sweet Raisin Tamales

Piloncillo Syrup

• 1–1½ cups (240–350 ml) water
• 1 cinnamon stick

To make the syrup, in a small, heavy saucepan over high heat, combine the water (use less water for sweeter tamales), cinnamon, and cloves and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover, and let steep for 30 minutes. Remove and discard the cinnamon and cloves.

Return the pan to low heat, add the piloncillo, and heat, stirring occasionally, until the piloncillo dissolves and a thin syr