Beef Tamales
Juicy beef-filled tamales with a mildly spicy and savory flavor, perfect for hearty meals and gatherings, offering a comforting taste of traditional Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Place heaping tablespoonful of mixture on a 5-inch wide piece of foil, shaping with wet hands.
- Roll about 3 times and twist ends to enclose the filling.
- Boil the wrapped tamales for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting half of the ground beef with shredded chicken or turkey. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper or add diced jalapeños to the mixture. Ensure your hands are wet while shaping the tamales to prevent sticking. For a twist, you can use the filling from Mexican Meat Cornbread as a base.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tamales with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a refreshing salad like Italian Taco Salad or a hearty soup. For a complete meal, consider enjoying them alongside Quick Taco Skillet Casserole for a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or steam them for about 10 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze tamales for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Tamales contains roughly 1772 calories, with 35g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (89% of the Daily Value), and protein (70% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% 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 prepare the tamales in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tamales ahead of time. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before boiling. Alternatively, you can freeze them before cooking. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if they are frozen.
What can I use instead of foil to wrap the tamales?
If you prefer not to use foil, you can use corn husks, which are traditional for tamales. Soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften before wrapping. This adds an authentic flavor to the tamales.
Can I make the tamales vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make vegetarian tamales, replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Adjust the spices to your liking for a delicious vegetarian version.
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).