Vegetarian Green Chile Cheese Tamales

These tamales offer a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and cheesy flavors wrapped in a soft, delicate masa dough. The creamy Monterey Jack cheese pairs wonderfully with the slight heat of the green chile, making each bite a flavorful treat.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or special gatherings, these tamales are sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them for the holidays or making a batch to share with friends, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. The vibrant green chile adds an exciting twist, making these tamales stand out with a fresh and fiery flavor.

Full Recipe:

• 2 cups masa harina

• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth

• 1 cup green chile, chopped

• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 10-12 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, salt, and vegetable oil.

2. Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring until the dough is soft and smooth.

3. Fold in the green chile and cheese, mixing until evenly distributed.

4. To assemble, spread a thin layer of masa dough on each corn husk, leaving about 2 inches on each side.

5. Fold the sides of the corn husk over the masa to form a rectangular shape and fold up the bottom of the husk.

6. Place the tamales standing up in a large steamer. Cover and steam for 1 hour, or until the masa is fully cooked and pulls away from the husk.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 10 tamales

History and Origin

Tamales have a rich cultural history that dates back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, particularly the Aztecs and Mayans. In these early cultures, tamales were considered essential food for travelers and soldiers due to their portable and compact nature. The masa, or dough, is typically made from corn, an ingredient deeply rooted in Mexican culture. Traditionally wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, tamales were easy to pack and transport, making them ideal for long journeys.

Over time, tamales evolved to reflect the diverse culinary traditions of various regions in Mexico. Different fillings, such as meats, vegetables, and cheeses, were introduced, and local ingredients like green chiles, beans, and various herbs and spices found their way into tamales. The vegetarian version of tamales, like these Green Chile Cheese Tamales, is a modern take that combines the rich, comforting flavor of cheese with the subtle heat of green chile. This variation is especially popular for those seeking a flavorful yet meat-free option.

In Mexico and many Latin American countries, tamales are still a central part of celebrations. They are commonly enjoyed during Christmas, the Day of the Dead, and other significant events, as well as everyday family meals. Making tamales is often a communal event where families gather to prepare the dough, fill the husks, and steam the tamales together, making it an act of bonding and tradition.

Variations and Adaptations

Tamales are incredibly versatile and vary widely depending on the region, occasion, and even the individual cook’s preferences. In some parts of Mexico, such as Oaxaca, tamales are made with a rich mole sauce, while in the Yucatan Peninsula, they might be wrapped in banana leaves and filled with pork, chicken, or even beans. There are countless versions, from sweet tamales made with fruits and chocolate to savory tamales stuffed with meats, cheeses, or vegetables.

The Green Chile Cheese Tamales are a popular choice in regions known for their love of spicy foods, such as New Mexico and the southwestern United States. The green chile adds a mild to moderate heat that perfectly complements the creamy cheese. However, you can switch up the type of cheese used depending on your taste preferences. While Monterey Jack is the classic choice for these tamales, you could substitute it with other cheeses like Oaxaca, a stringy Mexican cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for an added kick.

For those looking for a vegan version, plant-based cheeses can easily replace the dairy, and vegetable broth can be used in place of chicken broth. You can also experiment with different types of chiles. While green chiles are the star of this recipe, roasted poblano peppers or even hatch chiles can give a different depth of flavor. Other popular variations include adding corn kernels to the masa dough for texture, or mixing in beans for added protein and fiber.

Nutritional Information

While tamales are often considered a comfort food, their nutritional value depends on the ingredients used. The Vegetarian Green Chile Cheese Tamales are a satisfying option that provides both macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals.

Calories:
A typical serving of these tamales, which is around two to three tamales, will provide approximately 210-250 calories. This can vary depending on the specific amount of cheese and oil used.

Carbohydrates:
Tamales are a great source of carbohydrates, primarily from the masa dough, which is made from corn flour. A serving of two tamales will typically contain around 30 grams of carbs, providing steady energy. The corn-based dough is rich in fiber, which is important for digestive health.

Fat:
These tamales will have moderate fat content, mainly from the vegetable oil and cheese. A serving can contain approximately 10-12 grams of fat, depending on how much oil is used. Opting for lower-fat cheeses or using less oil can reduce the overall fat content if desired.

Protein:
The cheese adds a decent amount of protein, with a typical serving providing around 6-8 grams of protein. To boost the protein content further, you can add beans or tofu as a filling.

Vitamins and Minerals:
Green chiles, a key ingredient in this recipe, are packed with vitamin C, offering antioxidant benefits and supporting immune health. The cheese contributes calcium, which is essential for bone health. Additionally, the masa dough provides essential minerals such as iron and magnesium. For those who add extra vegetables like corn or spinach, the nutritional profile will improve with additional fiber and vitamins.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Vegetarian Green Chile Cheese Tamales are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. For a traditional Mexican meal, serve them alongside a rich, flavorful salsa verde, pico de gallo, or a tangy sour cream dip. A dollop of Mexican crema or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors.

For a more substantial meal, consider pairing the tamales with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. These hearty sides will balance the flavors and make the meal feel more complete. Fresh salads with zesty lime dressing and avocado slices can add a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy tamales.

When it comes to drink pairings, tamales are often enjoyed with a cold beer, such as a light Mexican lager or a crisp pale ale. If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, a freshly made agua fresca, such as horchata or agua de jamaica (hibiscus water), would complement the flavors of the tamales beautifully. For a festive touch, a tangy margarita could also pair wonderfully with the spice of the green chiles.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Making tamales from scratch can seem intimidating, but with a few tips, you’ll be able to prepare them with confidence:

1. Soak the Corn Husks: This is a crucial step to ensure your tamales don’t stick to the husks during steaming. Make sure to soak the husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes before using them.

2. Achieve the Right Masa Texture: The masa dough should be soft and pliable, not too dry or too wet. If it feels too crumbly, add a little more broth. If it’s too wet, add more masa harina to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Steam, Don’t Boil: While it might seem tempting, boiling tamales is not the best method. Instead, steam them in a large pot or tamale steamer for the perfect texture. Ensure the tamales are standing upright and that the pot has enough water for steaming but not so much that it touches the tamales.

4. Test for Doneness: To check if your tamales are ready, simply remove one from the steamer and open it. The masa should separate easily from the husk when it’s fully cooked.

Potential Health Benefits

The ingredients in these Vegetarian Green Chile Cheese Tamales offer several potential health benefits. Green chiles are rich in vitamin C, which can help support your immune system and combat free radicals in the body. The use of vegetable broth instead of animal-based products makes this dish lighter while still delivering on flavor.

Additionally, tamales made with masa harina provide a gluten-free alternative for those with dietary restrictions. The corn-based dough is a good source of fiber, which supports digestive health. Opting for lower-fat cheese or plant-based alternatives can make the tamales lighter, while still providing satisfying flavors.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Green Chile Cheese Tamales are the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re making them for a special celebration or simply enjoying them as a weeknight treat, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. These tamales combine the rich tradition of tamale-making with modern vegetarian ingredients, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and adaptable to various dietary preferences. Try your hand at making these tamales, and enjoy the delicious tastes of Mexican cuisine in your own home.