i just got the bag of organic masa ($2/ lb yellow or blue corn). To make tortillas, I didn’t really do anything to it other than ball it up and press on tortilla press. Some argue you can knead a bit of salt in the dough which you can do. Cooking tortillas can be tricky–we’re not experts by any means, but we had a griddle over two burners one on medium high, other medium. We placed the tortilla first on medium for 30 seconds, then flip to high side, and press down with the spatula. That helps it puff up from the steam.
for the tamale, we used 1 cup rendered lard for 1 kg masa above. whip with 1 tbs baking powder in stand mixer with paddle until it’s fluffy. Then add the masa and 1 cup of chicken stock and mix to combine. Season with salt…you can take a bit and microwave to cook to taste. Then make your tamale with your favorite filling.