100 Tamales
Savory tamales filled with spiced ground meat and flavorful cornmeal, perfect for gatherings and festive occasions, showcasing rich Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind or blend the onions and garlic.
- Add the blended onions and garlic to the ground meat.
- Add chili powder, Accent, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cumin to the meat mixture; then add 2 quarts of water.
- Cook and simmer the mixture for 1 hour.
- Add 2 more quarts of water and 4 tablespoons of shortening, then bring to a boil.
- Gradually stir in the yellow cornmeal to avoid lumps, until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pot.
- Cool the mixture and roll into tamales.
- Tamales can be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with a mixture of black beans and lentils. Additionally, using masa harina instead of yellow cornmeal can enhance the traditional tamale texture. Always taste the filling before rolling to adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tamales with a side of Sassy Salsa or My Favorite Salsa for an extra kick. They pair wonderfully with Tasty Guacamole and a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with Pinto And Meat Dish or a side of Mexican rice. Enjoy them as a festive dish for gatherings or any cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Once the tamales are fully cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, steam the tamales for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 100 Tamales contains roughly 2255 calories, with 103g protein, 452g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (600% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (206% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2707mg per serving (118% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for the tamales?
Absolutely! You can use shredded chicken, pork, or even turkey. Just ensure that the meat is cooked and seasoned well before mixing it with the other ingredients. For a vegetarian version, try using a combination of vegetables and beans, which can be equally delicious.
How can I tell when the tamales are cooked properly?
Tamales are cooked when the masa easily separates from the husk. After steaming, let them sit for a few minutes before serving. If the masa is still sticking, they may need additional cooking time. Always check a few tamales to ensure even cooking.
What should I do if my tamale dough is too dry?
If your dough feels dry, you can add a little more water or broth to achieve the desired consistency. Make sure to mix it thoroughly until the dough is moist but not overly sticky. It's important to balance the moisture for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).