Veg Tamales Recipe Made Easy and Delicious at Home

If you’re looking to bring a vibrant and comforting dish to your table, veg tamales are an excellent choice. These traditional Mexican delights are packed with wholesome vegetables wrapped in soft masa dough and steamed to perfection in corn husks.

Whether you’re a seasoned tamale lover or trying them for the first time, this recipe offers a flavorful plant-based twist that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.

Making veg tamales from scratch might seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and steps, it’s an enjoyable culinary adventure. From the rich masa dough to the savory vegetable filling, every bite bursts with a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, celebrations, or a cozy family dinner. Ready to dive into making your own batch?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veg tamales recipe stands out because it’s not only delicious but also entirely customizable and healthy. Using fresh vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and zucchini, it offers a nutrient-rich filling that’s both hearty and satisfying.

The masa dough is fluffy and light, making each tamale a delightful experience.

Additionally, this recipe is perfect for those embracing vegetarian or vegan lifestyles without sacrificing flavor or tradition. You can make a large batch and freeze leftovers for busy days, ensuring a quick and tasty meal whenever needed.

Plus, tamales are fun to make with friends and family, turning cooking into a social event!

Enjoy a taste of Mexican culture at home while keeping it wholesome and easy to prepare. For more vibrant vegetable dishes, check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals.

Ingredients

• 4 cups masa harina (corn flour for tamales)
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth (warm)
• 1 cup vegetable shortening or vegan butter
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 30-40 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Steamer pot or large pot with steaming rack
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean kitchen towel or parchment paper

Instructions

1. Prepare the corn husks: Soak the dried corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until they are pliable. Drain them and pat dry before use.
2. Make the vegetable filling: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the corn kernels, black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook another 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the masa dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the vegetable shortening (or vegan butter) until fluffy using an electric mixer. In a separate bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the shortening, alternating with the warm vegetable broth, beating continuously until you get a soft dough that holds together but is not sticky.
5. Test the dough consistency: Drop a small piece of dough into cold water. If it floats, the dough is ready. If it sinks, beat in a little more shortening and test again.
6. Assemble the tamales: Take a soaked corn husk and spread about 2 tablespoons of masa dough in the center, leaving about 1 inch on each side. Add 1-2 tablespoons of the vegetable filling on top of the masa. Fold the sides of the husk towards the center, then fold the bottom up. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.
7. Steam the tamales: Place the tamales upright in a steamer pot with the open side up. Cover the top with a clean kitchen towel and place the lid on. Steam over medium heat for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, checking occasionally to add more water to the pot as needed.
8. Check for doneness: The tamales are done when the masa easily peels away from the husks. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try adding roasted poblano peppers or a splash of chipotle sauce to the filling. You can also substitute the vegetable shortening with coconut oil for a different taste and healthier fats.”

• To make the tamales spicier, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• For a cheesy twist, add vegan cheese shreds inside the filling.
• Try mixing in cooked quinoa or rice with the vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
• If you don’t have corn husks, parchment paper strips can be used as a substitute for wrapping.
• Leftover tamales freeze well; wrap them tightly in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

These tamales are a balanced option, providing a good mix of carbs and plant-based protein with moderate fat content. The fiber from beans and vegetables helps keep you full and supports digestion.

Serving Suggestions

Veg tamales are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them with a side of fresh salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of vegan sour cream for a creamy contrast.

They pair beautifully with Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal. For a lighter option, a crisp salad with lime dressing complements the warm, savory tamales perfectly.

For more tasty plant-based meal ideas, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or dive into delightful desserts like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Conclusion

Making veg tamales at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and your plate with wholesome goodness. This recipe offers a perfect balance of traditional flavors and modern vegetarian twists, making it accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels.

Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or a cozy family dinner, these tamales will impress with their soft masa and savory vegetable filling. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or spices to make the recipe your own.

And remember, cooking tamales can be a fun social event — invite friends or family to join in the wrapping and steaming process!

For more plant-based cooking inspiration, explore our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to elevate your meals even further. Happy cooking and ¡buen provecho!

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