Masa Preparada for Tamales

Combine lard, salt, and baking powder in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape sides of bowl. With mixer running on low speed, gradually add masa. Once all masa is added, return to medium-high speed; beat until mixture is fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes.

Reduce speed to medium-low, and gradually stream in 1/2 cup chicken stock. Beat until mixture is well combined and smooth, 3 to 5 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape sides of bowl. The masa preparada should have the consistency of thick cake batter. If mixture is too thick, add additional chicken stock, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating well after each addition, until correct consistency is achieved. Cover bowl with a damp towel, and proceed with assembling tamales.