How to Reheat Tamales

You can easily reheat fully cooked tamales that are refrigerated or frozen. Refrigerated tamales can quickly be reheated on a comal or skillet. Frozen tamales can be reheated using the steamer or slow cooker method. If you reheat frozen tamales on a comal, be sure to allow them to thaw before reheating. Refrigerated tamales can quickly be reheated on a comal.

Steamed tamales that have been refrigerated or frozen are easily reheated on a comal over medium heat. This is the most popular way my family reheats tamales; however, a skillet can be used in place of a comal. Preheat your comal over medium heat. Arrange the tamales (with the corn husk still on) in a single layer on the comal. Cook the tamales until the masa and filling are heated, 3–5 minutes on each side. If you enjoy a little crunch on the exterior, simply remove the husk after the tamale is heated through, and cook on the comal until crispy in spots, about 1 minute more on each side.