Attach the butterfly whisk. Add masa harina, water, shortening, and salt to the mixing bowl. Mix the dough for 20 seconds / speed 3 / stir. Scrape the dough into a medium bowl. Wash the mixing bowl and remove the butterfly whisk.
Roll the masa dough into 1-inch (2.5cm) balls. Holding a dumpling in the palm of one hand, use your index finger to make an indentation in the center of the dumpling. Repeat with remaining masa dough.
Place the dumplings in the shallow steamer basket, leaving a little space between them. Add water into the mixing bowl. Attach steamer basket to mixing bowl. Steam dumplings for 15 minutes.
Top with any of the optional toppings. Enjoy your meal!
