Description
This hearty and flavorful Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings is the perfect comfort food. The soup is loaded with beans, corn, and savory spices, topped with tender masa dumplings. A delicious twist on a classic favorite
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tamale Dumplings:
- 1 cup masa harina
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or oil for dairy-free)
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Crumbled queso fresco
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. - Build the Base:
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes to meld the flavors. - Make the Dumpling Dough:
While the soup simmers, prepare the tamale dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Add the broth and melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. If desired, fold in shredded cheese for extra flavor. - Shape the Dumplings:
Using your hands, roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Set them aside on a plate.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add extra toppings like sour cream, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for more flavor.
- The tamale dumplings are meant to float in the soup while cooking, absorbing the broth’s flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg