Mexican Tamales(Foil Cooking)
Savory Mexican tamales with a flavorful mix of cornmeal, meat, vegetables, and spices, wrapped in foil for a simple, delicious treat perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Put the mixture in a pouch or foil.
- Seal the edges of the pouch.
- Cook for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika to the mixture. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with beans or tofu. You can also use masa harina instead of cornmeal for a more traditional tamale texture. Adjust the jalapeno pepper to your heat preference, and feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or corn.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tamales with a side of Red Pepper Salsa for a delicious kick. They pair beautifully with Beans And Meat for a hearty meal. Consider adding a fresh salad or guacamole on the side to balance the flavors. Enjoy them as a main dish or as part of a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can steam them for about 10 minutes for a fresher taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Tamales(Foil Cooking) contains roughly 163 calories, with 10g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2300mg per serving (100% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tamale mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to wrap and cook them in foil when you're ready to serve. This makes them a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What type of meat works best for this recipe?
Ground beef, chicken, or pork all work well in this recipe. You can also use shredded meat for added texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, turkey is an excellent choice as well.
Can I freeze the tamales?
Absolutely! After cooking, let the tamales cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).