Cabbage Hot Tamales
Cabbage Hot Tamales feature seasoned meat and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in tomatoes for a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, rice, chopped onion, chili powder, black pepper, and salt into 10 meatballs.
- Wilt the cabbage leaves in boiling water until soft.
- Wrap each meatball mixture in a cabbage leaf.
- Secure the wraps with toothpicks.
- Place the wrapped tamales in a pot and pour the canned tomatoes and water over them.
- Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also add spices like cumin or garlic powder for extra flavor. If cabbage leaves are difficult to work with, Swiss chard or collard greens can be great alternatives. Make sure to properly wilt the cabbage to prevent tearing during wrapping.
Serving Suggestions
These cabbage hot tamales are delicious served with a side of salsa or sour cream. For a festive meal, pair them with Mexican recipes like Jody's Cheese Dip or a fresh green salad. Enjoy with a side of rice and beans for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water to keep them moist. Heat until warmed through, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Hot Tamales contains roughly 422 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1039mg per serving (45% 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 make these tamales ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamales and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. Simply assemble them and refrigerate, then simmer them when you’re ready to serve. This can save time on busy days.
What can I use if I don't have bacon grease?
If you don't have bacon grease, olive oil or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. For added flavor, consider using butter or even a flavored oil, depending on your preference.
How do I know when the tamales are done cooking?
The tamales are done when the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. You can also check that the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded. This usually takes about 1.5 hours of simmering.
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).