Raspberry Tamales

1/2 cup butter
2 1/2 cups Masa Harina
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup boiling water
1 1/2 cups sweet corn kernels, pureed
1 1/2 cups raspberries, pureed and strained
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup almonds, toasted and chopped
1 tablespoon candied lemon peel, minced (optional)
Fresh raspberries for garnish
Mint sprigs for garnish

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle, beat the butter until light and fluffy (4-5 minutes). Add the masa, baking powder, salt and sugar and mix until blended. Add the water, corn puree, raspberry puree and vanilla extract and mix just until combined. Dough should be light and very moist.

Spread the dough on soaked corn husks in a square approximately 1/4 inch thick. Distribute some of the raisins, almonds and candied lemon peel in center and roll up to form a cylindrical shape. Tie or fold ends of husks over to enclose tamale. Steam tamales for 30 minutes.

Serve warm with a garnish of fresh berries and mint sprigs.

Yields 10 to 12 tamales.