Fill a steamer pot with water, keeping the water level below the steamer basket
Bring the water to a boil
Stand the tamales upright in the steamer basket with the open ends facing up
Leave space between tamales so steam can circulate
Cover the tamales with a damp kitchen towel or extra corn husks if desired
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid
Reduce heat to medium-low so the water stays at a steady simmer
Steam for 45 to 60 minutes for refrigerated tamales
Steam for 60 to 90 minutes for frozen tamales
Check the water level occasionally and add more hot water if needed
Test for doneness by removing one tamale and checking if the husk peels away easily
Let tamales rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving