Best Vegetarian Tamale Recipe for Flavorful Mexican Meals

Tamales are a cherished traditional dish across many cultures, celebrated for their comforting flavors and delightful textures. For vegetarians, finding a tamale recipe that is both satisfying and authentic can sometimes be a challenge.

That’s why we’ve crafted the best vegetarian tamale recipe that combines wholesome ingredients, vibrant flavors, and a soft, tender masa. These tamales are packed with a savory filling of seasoned vegetables and cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed to perfection.

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this tamale recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or a cozy weekend meal, these tamales offer a burst of flavor with every bite.

Plus, they’re gluten-free and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure and bring a little piece of Mexico into your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian tamale recipe is a wonderful combination of tradition and innovation. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich, flavorful filling: A medley of roasted peppers, mushrooms, corn, and cheese gives these tamales a satisfying depth of flavor.
• Soft & fluffy masa: The corn dough is perfectly seasoned and moist, creating an ideal texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to customize: You can swap out the vegetables or cheese to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly: Prepare a batch in advance and freeze them for a quick, delicious meal anytime.
• Vegetarian and gluten-free: Made with wholesome ingredients, these tamales cater to special diets without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 4 cups masa harina (corn flour for tamales)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (warm)
• 1 ½ cups vegetable shortening or lard substitute
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 2 cups roasted poblano peppers, diced
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
• 1 cup shredded Oaxaca cheese or mozzarella
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 30-40 dried corn husks

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl for masa dough
• Electric mixer or hand mixer (for mixing masa and shortening)
• Steamer pot or large pot with a steaming rack
• Blender or food processor (optional, for blending masa)
• Large skillet for sautéing vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Bowl of warm water (for soaking corn husks)
• Kitchen towel to cover tamales while steaming
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Soak the corn husks: Place dried corn husks in a large bowl of warm water and soak for at least 30 minutes until they are pliable.
2. Prepare the vegetable filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, roasted poblano peppers, and corn: Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt to taste, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Make the masa dough: In a large bowl, beat the vegetable shortening until fluffy using an electric mixer. Gradually add masa harina, baking powder, and salt, alternating with warm vegetable broth. Mix well until a soft, spreadable dough forms. The dough should be moist but not sticky. To test, drop a small ball of dough in cold water; if it floats, it’s ready.
5. Assemble the tamales: Drain the corn husks and pat dry. Spread a thin layer of masa dough (about 2 tablespoons) onto the smooth side of each husk, leaving a border on all sides.
6. Add filling: Place a spoonful of the vegetable filling in the center of the masa, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Fold the tamales: Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up. Tie with a strip of husk or kitchen string if needed to secure.
8. Steam the tamales: Arrange tamales standing upright in a steamer pot with the open end up. Cover tamales with a damp kitchen towel and lid. Steam over simmering water for 1 to 1 ½ hours, checking water level periodically and adding more hot water if needed.
9. Check for doneness: The masa should be firm and pull away easily from the husk. Remove tamales and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of flavor, add a spoonful of your favorite salsa or a drizzle of chipotle sauce inside the tamale before folding.

Tip: If you want a vegan version, substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use coconut oil instead of vegetable shortening.

Feeling adventurous? Try adding black beans or diced sweet potatoes to the filling for a heartier tamale.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian tamales are a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Consider serving them with fresh guacamole, a vibrant tomato salsa, or a cooling crema sauce to complement the rich masa and filling.

For a complete meal, add a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad with lime vinaigrette. These tamales also pair beautifully with a warm bowl of Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe for a delightful fusion experience.

Craving something sweet afterward? Try the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe to end your meal on a high note.

For cheese lovers, a side of baked Cheese Penny Recipe makes a fantastic accompaniment.

Conclusion

This vegetarian tamale recipe brings the heart of Mexican cuisine to your table in a wholesome and delicious way. With its tender masa and vibrant vegetable filling, it offers a comforting and satisfying meal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels and lends itself beautifully to creative variations, making it a staple you’ll turn to again and again.

Whether you’re preparing these tamales for a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, their rich flavors and satisfying textures never disappoint. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this recipe your own.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the wonderful world of tamales!

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