A Twist on the 4th of July

Chicken Tamale with Corn Salsa and Queso Fresco

Grilled Corn & Cherry Tomato Salsa

Spicy Guacamole

When you think of an American holiday, maybe hot dogs and apple pie come to mind, but its always a little different at my house. Today Tamales are on the menu, this was inspired after discovering and shopping at a well stocked Mexican supermarket in the area. I started with chicken thighs that were slowly braised in a red chili sauce until the meat fell off the bone, next I made a green tomatillo salsa, grilled corn and cherry tomato salsa and a spicy guacamole. I also bought a slice of Mexican Queso Fresco which I crumbled, it is almost like Feta cheese but less salty. The most important component to make is Masa, which is the same dough used in making corn tortillas, it can be found sometimes already made or a "just add water" powder. Now with all the component's done it was easy to assemble the tamales. A spoonful of soft masa dough is placed in the center of a water softened corn husk, a spoon of shredded chicken is placed on top then its folded like a small square package, next into a steamer for about an hour and its dinner time dinner time. I also made a vegetarian version using black beans and grilled corn. Dinner was good and now its time for the fireworks.