tamale husk

Corn husks are sold by individual husk dimensions—typically 9–10 inches long and 7–9 inches wide—and in packaged net weights such as 16 ounces, 90 ounces, or 5 lbs. Some product listings instead show pack counts (for example packs of 1 or 50 husks).

Corn husks are the outer leaves that cover an ear of corn. Commercially sold husks are commonly sold whole and are dried by sun-, air-, or oven-drying.

Besides steaming tamales, corn husks are used to encase foods for baking or steaming and can substitute for foil in grilling packets to add subtle flavor during cooking.

Typical tamale husks are about 9–10 inches long and about 7–9 inches wide at the wider end, suitable for generously sized tamales.

Corn husks impart a very light corn aroma/flavor and are commonly used for presentation. They are not edible and are typically discarded after use.

Store corn husks in a cool, dry place until you are ready to soak and use them.

Corn husks are used for cooking and presentation but are not edible; after steaming or baking, unwrap the tamales and discard the husks.

In many northern Mexican traditions tamales are wrapped in corn husks, while in parts of southern Mexico tamales are more commonly wrapped in banana or plantain leaves.