Cheese Tamales Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide

Cheese tamales are a delightful and comforting dish that brings the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine right into your kitchen—without any meat! This vegetarian version is perfect for those who crave the authentic taste of tamales but prefer a meat-free option.

Made with soft masa dough and stuffed with gooey, melted cheese, these tamales are wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection, creating a tender, flavorful treat that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or seeking a cozy weekend project, this recipe is sure to impress.

What makes these cheese tamales so special is their simplicity combined with the creamy, cheesy filling that pairs beautifully with the slightly sweet masa. Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with your favorite cheeses and spices.

Ready to dive into making your own batch? Let’s get started on this delicious vegetarian cheese tamales recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian tamales often get overlooked, but this recipe changes the game. Here’s why:

• Authentic Taste: Uses traditional masa and corn husks to keep the genuine tamale experience alive.
• Simple Ingredients: Accessible pantry staples like masa harina, cheese, and spices make it easy to prepare.
• Vegetarian Friendly: Perfect for vegetarians and anyone wanting a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or spices to tailor the filling to your taste buds.
• Great for Gatherings: Tamales are always a crowd-pleaser, making this recipe ideal for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 cups masa harina (corn flour for tamales)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable shortening or unsalted butter
• 3 cups vegetable broth (warm)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack works beautifully)
• 1 cup diced roasted poblano peppers (optional for a mild kick)
• 30-40 dried corn husks (soaked in warm water for at least 30 minutes)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Steamer pot or large pot with steaming rack
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen towel (for covering tamales during steaming)
• Knife and cutting board
• Large bowl for soaking corn husks

Instructions

1. Soak the corn husks: Place the dried corn husks in a large bowl and cover with warm water. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes until they become pliable. Drain and pat dry before use.
2. Prepare the masa dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Cream the shortening: Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the vegetable shortening until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine masa and shortening: Gradually add the masa mixture to the creamed shortening alternately with the warm vegetable broth, beating continuously. The dough should be soft but hold together when pressed.
5. Test the dough: Drop a small piece of masa dough into cold water. If it floats, the dough is ready. If it sinks, continue beating and adding broth until it floats.
6. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix shredded cheese with diced roasted poblano peppers, ground cumin, chili powder, and black pepper. Set aside.
7. Assemble the tamales: Take a soaked corn husk and spread about 2 tablespoons of masa dough evenly in the center, leaving space on the edges. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling in the middle of the masa.
8. Fold the tamales: Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up and the top down to seal the tamale. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
9. Steam the tamales: Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot with the open end facing up. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and steam over boiling water for 1 to 1.5 hours. Check water level occasionally and add more boiling water as needed.
10. Check for doneness: Tamales are done when the masa separates easily from the husk. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

“Always soak your corn husks thoroughly to avoid tearing when folding your tamales!”

• For a richer flavor, substitute vegetable shortening with unsalted butter.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cheese filling for extra texture and nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños or a spoonful of your favorite salsa inside the filling.
• For vegan tamales, swap out cheese with vegan cheese alternatives or mashed seasoned beans.
• Use a slow cooker to steam tamales if you don’t have a traditional steamer pot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Cheese tamales are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve with a fresh homemade salsa or a tangy tomatillo sauce.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for creamy contrast.
• Pair with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables for a complete vegetarian feast.
• For a festive twist, try sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime over the tamales before serving.
• Enjoy alongside other Mexican-inspired dishes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Making cheese tamales at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and results in a dish that feels both traditional and lovingly homemade. This vegetarian recipe offers a delicious alternative to meat-filled tamales without compromising on flavor or texture.

The combination of soft masa and melted cheese, accented by subtle spices and optional roasted peppers, creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re new to tamale-making or looking to add a new vegetarian recipe to your collection, these cheese tamales will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins to make this recipe your own.

And if you love trying new recipes, be sure to check out our Peda Recipe Ricotta Cheese for a sweet complement to your meal or explore hearty options like our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for non-vegetarian friends at the table.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of these cheesy, comforting tamales!

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