Cabbage Tamales
Cabbage tamales combine tender cabbage leaves with a savory rice and meat filling, spiced with chili powder and topped with a tangy catsup, perfect for hearty family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix thoroughly the meat and rice with the chopped onion, tomato pulp, chili powder, salt, pepper, and catsup.
- Soak cabbage leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, consider substituting the hamburger meat with black beans or lentils. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the filling. When soaking the cabbage leaves, ensure they are fully submerged in hot water to soften evenly, which will make rolling the tamales easier. Also, you can use leftover rice from other meals for a quicker prep.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage tamales are delicious served with a side of fresh guacamole or salsa to enhance their flavor. Pair them with a light salad or Mexican rice for a complete meal. They also complement dishes like South Of The Border Chip Dip, making for a delightful spread at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cabbage tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for about 10 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 2-3 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Tamales contains roughly 1359 calories, with 11g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2092mg per serving (91% 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 different types of meat in these tamales?
Absolutely! You can substitute the hamburger meat with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats for added flavor. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked and seasoned well before mixing it with the rice and other ingredients.
How can I make the tamales spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in chopped green chilies or jalapeños into the filling. You can also serve them with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of extra kick.
Can I freeze the tamales for later?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked tamales. If freezing uncooked, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Cooked tamales should be cooled completely before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat as described.
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).