Masa Batter Recipe

Authentic Mexican Cuisine

By Spices Prince

Appetizer/Main Course/Side Dish

Make a delicious Masa Batter with authentic Mexican ingredients. 

 The Bricks for Tortillas and Tamales

Masa batter is a type of Mexican dough made from masa harina, which is a specially treated corn flour used to make tortillas and other corn-based foods. 

An Essential for Tacos, Enchiladas, Chilaquiles and Quesadillas

It has been used in Mexican cuisine for centuries and is an integral part of many traditional dishes. While there is no specific region where masa batter originated, it is a staple in the cuisine across Mexico. Masa batter is made by mixing masa harina with water to form a smooth, pliable dough. 

Nixtamalization 

Masa harina, a type of corn flour that has been treated with lime or other alkaline substances to remove the outer layer of the kernel and make it more nutritious and easier to digest. The masa harina is mixed with water and other ingredients such as salt and oil or lard to make a pliable dough. 

 A World of Possibilities

This dough is then shaped into the desired form, often in the form of tortillas, tamales, or gorditas. Masa batter can also be combined with other ingredients such as lard, sugar, or spices, depending on the recipe. 

Pitfalls on Masa Batter

 Proper Mixing: Masa batter is typically made with masa harina, which is a special type of corn flour used to make tortillas and tamales. Getting the right consistency is key to make a good masa batter. Start with masa harina and gradually add water until you get a dough-like texture. Too much water can result in a runny batter and make it difficult to stick to the food.

 Additional Ingredients: You can add a few additional ingredients to the masa batter, such as salt, baking powder, or seasonings. Just be sure not to add too much as it can impact the texture and final result.

 Temperature: The temperature of your ingredients and batter are also important. The masa harina and water should be at room temperature when mixing, and the batter should be chilled in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before use.

 Frying Temperature: When frying anything with masa, make sure the oil is hot enough, which usually ranges between 350-375°F. If the oil is not hot enough, the batter may not stick and can break apart in the oil.

 Ingredient Prep: It's important to prepare the ingredients well, so the masa batter sticks better. For instance, if you're making fried chicken or fish, pat the ingredients dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture before dipping them in the masa batter.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of masa harina

• 2 cups of warm water

• 1 teaspoon of salt

• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder

• 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, salt, cumin powder, chili powder, and garlic powder.

2. Add warm water and mix well to form a smooth dough, adding more water as needed.

3. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.

4. In a separate bowl, combine vegetable oil and a pinch of salt to create a seasoning mixture.

5. Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.

6. Pinch off a golf ball-sized piece of dough and roll it into a ball, then flatten it into a disc.

7. Dip both sides of the disc into the seasoning mixture and place it on the hot griddle or pan.

8. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

9. Repeat with remaining dough until all masa cakes are cooked.

10. Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer, or use as a base for traditional Mexican dishes such as tamales, empanadas, or gorditas.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 120

• Fat: 4 g

• Saturated Fat: 1 g

• Carbohydrates: 20 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 0 g

• Protein: 2 g

With this Masa Batter, you can make a variety of traditional Mexican dishes such as tamales, empanadas, gorditas, and more! Share your delicious creations on social media using the hashtags #hivercipes #masabatter #mexicancuisine #authenticflavors #vegetarian