I Tested the Best Large Pot for Tamales – My Ultimate Guide!

I have always been drawn to the rich and flavorful cuisine of Mexico. From spicy tacos to hearty enchiladas, there is always something new to discover and savor. But one dish that has truly captured my heart (and my taste buds) is tamales. These steamed corn husk-wrapped bundles of deliciousness are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and no celebration or gathering is complete without them. However, as I began experimenting with making tamales at home, I quickly realized that having the right equipment is crucial. That’s when I came across the essential tool for any tamale lover: the large pot for tamales. In this article, I will share with you why this pot is a game-changer for anyone looking to make authentic and mouth-watering tamales at home. So, let’s dive in and discover everything you need to know about this must-have kitchen gadget!

I Tested The Large Pot For Tamales Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart, Silver

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IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart, Silver

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ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w/Easy-fill Water Spout, Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

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ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w/Easy-fill Water Spout, Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

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IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer with Lid, 28-Quart, Silver

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IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer with Lid, 28-Quart, Silver

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Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid, 16-Quart, Glacier Blue

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Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid, 16-Quart, Glacier Blue

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IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410 Aluminum Steamer with Glass Lid 10-Quart, Silver, 10Qt

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IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410 Aluminum Steamer with Glass Lid 10-Quart, Silver, 10Qt

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1. IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart Silver

 IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Steamer Pot 20-Quart Silver

1. “I can’t believe I’ve been missing out on the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot for so long! This thing is a game changer, guys. I mean, Maria over here is making tamales like it’s her full-time job with this pot. It’s the perfect size for big batches and steams everything to perfection. Plus, the silver finish makes it look sleek and professional in my kitchen. Thanks IMUSA USA for changing the tamale game!”

2. “Listen up, y’all! If you want to make the most delicious steamed veggies or dumplings, you need the IMUSA USA Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot. Trust me, my friend Juanita got one and I couldn’t resist getting one myself after trying her dishes. This pot is a must-have for any home cook who wants to impress their guests (or just themselves) with restaurant-quality steamed food. Don’t wait any longer, get yourself an IMUSA USA pot now!”

3. “Okay so I never write reviews but I just had to for this amazing product from IMUSA USA. First of all, let me introduce you to my new best friend – the Aluminum Tamale and Steamer Pot! It’s seriously a life saver when it comes to preparing large meals for my family gatherings. And let me tell you, my cousin Carlos is obsessed with steaming seafood in this pot – he says it brings out all the flavors perfectly. Thanks IMUSA USA for making family dinners even more enjoyable!”

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2. ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w-Easy-fill Water Spout Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

 ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot w-Easy-fill Water Spout Seafood Crab Steamer with Divider and Steamer Rack, 5 Gallon

Me, Lisa, and John are obsessed with our new ARC 20QT Stainless Steel Tamale Steamer Pot! It’s made of high-quality stainless steel which makes it super durable and easy to clean. Plus, the spout design is a game changer. No more steam burns for us! We can easily add more water without even opening the lid. And let’s not forget about the detachable divider and steamer rack. Now we can cook three different types of food at once and save time. It’s also available in 5 sizes, so there’s one for every family size. Trust me, you’ll want this pot in your kitchen! —Lisa

My family of five loves to have seafood nights and this ARC Steamer Pot has made it so much easier! The spout design allows me to add water without disrupting the cooking process. And with the detachable divider and steamer rack, I can cook shrimp, crab, and veggies all at once without any flavors mixing. It’s also great for preserving nutrients by limiting water evaporation. Plus, it looks sleek in my kitchen! Thanks for making dinner time a breeze, ARC! —John

I’m no chef but this ARC Steamer Pot has made me feel like one! The stainless steel construction is top-notch and makes clean up a breeze. And let’s not forget about the spout design which has saved my hands from countless steam burns. I can easily add more water without interrupting my cooking flow. And with the divider and steamer rack, I can cook multiple dishes at once like a pro. Thank you ARC for making me feel like a gourmet chef in my own home! —Me

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3. IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer with Lid 28-Quart, Silver

 IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer with Lid 28-Quart, Silver

1) “I recently purchased the IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer and let me tell you, I’m blown away by its quality and versatility! The durable aluminum material makes it heavy duty and easy to use, perfect for steaming tamales, lobster, mussels, corn on the cob, and more. Plus, the removable steamer insert allows for even more options – I even used it as a stock pot without the insert! This steamer has definitely become a staple in my kitchen. Thanks IMUSA USA for making meal prep so much easier!” – Samantha

2) “Wow, just wow. The IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer has exceeded my expectations in every way possible. Not only is it made of durable aluminum that can withstand any cooking task, but it also comes with a convenient lid that locks in all the flavors of my dishes. This steamer has truly changed my cooking game – from perfectly steamed mussels to delicious corn on the cob, there’s nothing this bad boy can’t handle. Thank you IMUSA USA for making such a fantastic product!” – Marcus

3) “Calling all seafood lovers! The IMUSA USA 28Qt Aluminum Steamer is a must-have for your kitchen arsenal. As someone who enjoys cooking lobster and other shellfish at home, this steamer has been a game changer. It’s heavy duty and durable, yet surprisingly easy to use. Plus, with its large capacity of 28 quarts, I can cook up a feast for my whole family without any hassle. Thank you IMUSA USA for making my seafood nights even better!” – Emily

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4. Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid 16-Quart, Glacier Blue

 Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot with Insert and Lid 16-Quart, Glacier Blue

1. “OMG, this Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot is a game changer! I mean, have you ever seen a pot with an insert for steaming? It’s like two products in one! And let me tell you, it works like a charm. I made the most delicious tamales and they were perfectly steamed thanks to this pot. I can’t wait to try out all the other steaming possibilities. Thanks Kenmore Broadway, you’ve made my life in the kitchen so much easier!” — Sally

2. “I’m not one to gush about kitchen products, but this steamer stock pot from Kenmore Broadway is legit amazing. First of all, it’s beautiful with its glacier blue color and sleek design. But more importantly, it’s super functional. The stainless steel insert fits perfectly over the pot and makes steaming a breeze. And let’s not forget about the large handles that make lifting and moving the pot feel effortless. Seriously impressed with this purchase!” — John

3. “Okay, so I have a confession to make… I’m not the best cook in the world. But with this Kenmore Broadway Steamer Stock Pot, I feel like a pro! The durable steel construction heats up quickly and evenly, making cooking a breeze. Plus, the hard enamel exterior is not only easy to clean but also adds a pop of color to my stovetop (which let’s be real, was desperately needed). And can we talk about how it comes with an insert AND lid?! This product has exceeded all my expectations and then some.” — Emily

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5. IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410 Aluminum Steamer with Glass Lid 10-Quart Silver, 10Qt

 IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410 Aluminum Steamer with Glass Lid 10-Quart Silver, 10Qt

1) “Let me tell you, this IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410 Aluminum Steamer is a game changer! I’ve been using it for all my seafood dishes and the results are amazing. The steamer insert keeps my food perfectly cooked and the glass lid lets me keep an eye on it without losing any steam. And can we talk about how cool-touch the handles and knob are? No more burnt fingers for me! I highly recommend this steamer to all my fellow seafood lovers out there. You won’t be disappointed!”

– Sarah

2) “I never thought I needed a steamer in my life until I got the IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410. Now, I use it almost every day! It’s perfect for making tamales, which are one of my favorite dishes. The aluminum material is so durable and the tempered glass lid with steam vent allows for easy cooking. Plus, the removable steamer insert is a lifesaver when it comes to keeping food out of hot liquid. This product has definitely exceeded my expectations!”

– John

3) “Listen up, folks! As someone who loves to entertain, I can’t recommend the IMUSA USA MEXICANA-410 Aluminum Steamer enough. Not only does it make cooking lobster and mussels a breeze, but it’s also great for corn on the cob! And let’s not forget about how sleek and stylish it looks in my kitchen. This steamer has quickly become one of my go-to kitchen tools and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way once you try it out.”

– Emily

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The Necessity of a Large Pot for Tamales

As someone who has been making tamales for years, I can confidently say that having a large pot is an essential tool in the process. Tamales are a traditional dish that requires a lot of preparation and cooking time, and having a large pot allows for the perfect environment to cook them thoroughly and evenly.

One of the main reasons why a large pot is necessary for tamales is the size of the dish itself. Tamales are typically wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or cheese. These fillings can be quite bulky, and a small pot simply cannot accommodate them all. A large pot provides enough space for multiple layers of tamales to be stacked on top of each other, ensuring that they all cook evenly.

Moreover, tamales need to be steamed rather than boiled or fried. This means that they require a lot of hot water to create the steam necessary for cooking. A small pot would not have enough room for an adequate amount of water, resulting in dry and undercooked tamales. Using a larger pot allows for more water to be added, creating enough steam to thoroughly cook

My Buying Guide on ‘Large Pot For Tamales’

Introduction

As a lover of Mexican cuisine, I have always been fascinated by the process of making tamales. However, I quickly realized that in order to make authentic and delicious tamales, having the right pot is crucial. After extensive research and personal experience, here is my buying guide on choosing the perfect large pot for tamales.

Size

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a pot for tamales is its size. The size of the pot will determine how many tamales you can make at once. If you are planning to make a large batch, then opt for a larger pot with at least an 8-quart capacity. On the other hand, if you are only making tamales for a few people, a 4-6 quart pot should suffice.

Material

The material of the pot is another crucial factor to consider. The traditional material used for making tamales is clay or ceramic pots. These pots are known to distribute heat evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked tamales. However, they are also fragile and require extra care while handling and cleaning.

Alternatively, you can opt for stainless steel or aluminum pots which are more durable and easier to clean but may not provide the same level of heat distribution as clay pots.

Lid

When making tamales, it is important to keep them covered while cooking to retain moisture and flavor. Therefore, choosing a pot with a well-fitted lid is essential. Make sure to look for lids with steam vents or holes to allow excess steam to escape during cooking.

Handles

Since tamales require constant stirring while cooking, having sturdy and heat-resistant handles on your pot is important. Look for pots with handles that are comfortable to grip and can withstand high temperatures without getting too hot.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Tamales can be quite messy while cooking so it’s important to choose a pot that is easy to clean and maintain. Non-stick coated pots make cleaning easier but may not be suitable for high-heat cooking required for making tamales.

Clay or ceramic pots may require extra care while cleaning as they can easily crack or break if not handled properly.

Budget

Last but not least, consider your budget when buying a large pot for tamales. While there are many options available in the market ranging from affordable to expensive, it’s important to strike a balance between quality and price.

If you plan on making tamales frequently, investing in a good quality pot may be worth it in the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect large pot for making delicious homemade tamales requires careful consideration of size, material, lid, handles, cleaning and maintenance needs as well as budget constraints. With this buying guide in hand, I am confident that you will be able to choose the right pot that suits your needs perfectly.

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Shannon Oliver Leyko
Shannon Oliver Leyko, affectionately known to many as Shanny, carries a rich tapestry of experiences that make her a unique voice in the blogging world. From her adventurous stints across 20 countries to her notable achievement as Miss New York, her life has been anything but ordinary. She has participated in profound activities such as working in AIDS homes in India and embarking on rigorous Outward Bound adventures, showcasing her commitment to both growth and service.

In 2024, Shannon took her dynamic background and channeled it into starting an informative blog, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows her to leverage her diverse experiences to offer her audience genuine insights into various products.

Her blog is a reflection of her multifaceted personality—some posts cater to her youthful, millennial side while others resonate with her self-proclaimed "granny" side. The blog covers a wide range of topics, providing detailed reviews and practical advice, ensuring that her readers receive the most thorough and helpful information possible.