Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales: A Flavorful Delight

Tamales are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales , known for their versatility and delicious flavors.

Among the many variations of tamales, Green Chile Cheese Tamales hold a special place for me. Craving something flavorful and comforting, look no further than this Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales.

As a huge fan of tamales, I can’t get enough of this perfect combination of spicy green chiles and gooey cheese wrapped in soft masa dough.

It’s a classic Mexican dish that brings warmth and deliciousness to any table. Making tamales might seem like a big task, but with a little patience, it’s surprisingly simple.

I love how each bite is packed with bold flavors, and the texture is just right. This Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales is a must-try, Hosting a gathering or just looking to enjoy a tasty homemade meal.

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This Green Chile Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales is a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Mexican flavors.

The combination of spicy green chiles and melted cheese wrapped in soft, flavorful masa creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to beat.

What makes this recipe special is the balance of heat and creaminess, making every bite satisfying and comforting.

It’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy weeknight dinners. Although the process may take some time, the result is absolutely worth it.

Plus, tamales are versatile – you can adjust the spice level and even freeze them for later. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

How To Prepare Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hours

Total Time: 1 hours 30 minutes

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 12 tamales

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Steamer or large pot with a lid
• Corn husks (soaked in warm water)
• Spoon or tamale spreader
• Tongs (for handling hot tamales)

Ingredients

For the Masa:

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour for tamales)
• 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra richness)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cheese (I prefer a mix of Monterey Jack and Cheddar)
• 1/2 cup roasted green chiles (fresh or canned, chopped)
• 1/4 cup diced onion (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin (optional, for extra warmth)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn Husks

Start by soaking your corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes to make them soft and pliable. This will ensure that your tamales don’t tear when you wrap them later. Make sure they are fully submerged in water, and use a heavy object to keep them down if needed.

2. Make the Masa Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the vegetable broth, mixing the dough with your hands until it becomes smooth and pliable.

If you want a richer masa, you can mix in the sour cream. Add the vegetable oil last, continuing to knead the masa until it’s light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving that soft texture you want in tamales.

3. Prepare the Filling

Now, in a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheese, roasted green chiles, garlic powder, cumin, and onion (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until well combined.

The cheese should start to melt slightly from the warmth of the chiles, making it easier to spread inside the masa Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales.

4. Assemble the Tamales

Now comes the fun part – assembling your tamales! Take a soaked corn husk and lay it flat on your work surface.

Spread a generous amount of masa dough along the center of the husk, leaving about 1-2 inches on either side. Add a spoonful of the Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales mixture on top of the masa.

Carefully fold in the sides of the husk, and then fold the bottom upwards to encase the tamale. You can tie the top with a small strip of husk if you like.

5. Steam the Tamales

Once your tamales are assembled, it’s time to steam them. Fill a large pot or steamer with water, making sure it doesn’t touch the tamales.

Stand the tamales upright in the pot, stacking them carefully to fit. Cover the tamales with a damp cloth or extra corn husks, then place the lid on the pot.

Steam the tamales over medium heat for about 1.5 to 1 hours, or until the masa easily separates from the husk. Check the water level occasionally and add more if needed to prevent burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Once the tamales are ready, carefully remove them from the steamer using tongs and let them cool slightly before serving. You can serve these tamales as they are or with a side of salsa or sour cream for an extra kick.

Special Note

1. Test the Masa: Ensure the masa is soft but not sticky. It should spread easily without crumbling or sticking to your hands.

2. Soak Husks Well: Soak the corn husks for at least 30 minutes to make them flexible and prevent tearing during assembly.

3. Use Moderate Filling: Avoid overstuffing your tamales. A small, even amount of filling ensures they steam properly and stay intact.

Nutrition Facts Per Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales

Calories: 230 kcal

Protein: 7g

Carbohydrates: 27g

Fat: 12g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 330mg

Cholesterol: 20mg

Amazing Serving Ideas

For an amazing tamale experience, serve your Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales with a variety of delicious sides! Pair them with fresh guacamole for a creamy, flavorful contrast to the spicy tamales.

Salsa verde adds a tangy kick, complementing the cheese and chiles perfectly. For a more filling meal, serve the tamales alongside Mexican rice and refried beans for a comforting, hearty plate.

A drizzle of Mexican crema or a dollop of sour cream adds richness to the tamales. If you want to elevate your meal, serve with a cold margarita or a refreshing agua fresca.

You can also make them a fun appetizer at your next gathering, offering guests a variety of salsas and toppings to create their own custom tamale experience.

Tips And Techniques

5 Tips and Techniques for Perfect Tamales:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother masa dough, ensure that your broth, butter, and other ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the dough to become clumpy and uneven.

2. Check the Steamer Water Level: Keep an eye on the water in your steamer while cooking. If the water runs out, the tamales will not steam properly, so add more water as needed throughout the cooking process.

3. Test One Tamale First: Before steaming all your tamales, cook one to test. If the masa separates easily from the husk, your tamales are done. If not, continue steaming for a little longer.

4. Wrap Tamales Tightly: Make sure the husks are wrapped tightly around the masa to prevent any filling from spilling out during cooking. You can tie the tamales with extra husk strips for extra security.

5. Steam on Low Heat: Always steam tamales on medium-low heat. Too high of a temperature can dry them out or cause them to cook unevenly. The slow steam ensures tender, perfectly cooked tamales.

How To Stor

To store leftover Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales, first let them cool to room temperature. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent them from drying out.

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, tamales freeze beautifully.

Place the wrapped tamales in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can steam them straight from the freezer for about 45 minutes to an hour.

Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot. Steaming is the best method to maintain their texture, but the microwave works in a pinch for quick reheating.

What Are The Main Ingredients Of Tamales?

The main ingredients of tamales are masa harina (corn flour), which forms the base dough, and a filling, which can vary but often includes meats, cheeses, or vegetables.

The masa is combined with fat (like butter or vegetable oil), baking powder, salt, and broth to give it a smooth, pliable texture.

The filling is typically wrapped in dried corn husks and then steamed. Tamales can be sweet or savory depending on the choice of filling and seasonings.

What Is The Best Melting Cheese For Tamales?

The best melting Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales that have a creamy texture and melt easily. Monterey Jack, Oaxaca, and Mozzarella are excellent choices because they melt beautifully and create a smooth, stretchy texture.

Cheddar is also a popular option, especially for those who enjoy a sharper, tangier flavor. Combining a couple of different cheeses can add depth and richness to the filling.

What Is A Common Mistake When Making Tamales?

A common mistake when making tamales is not testing the masa’s consistency before assembling the tamales.

If the masa is too dry or too wet, it will affect the texture of the tamales, making them either too crumbly or too soggy.

Another mistake is overstuffing the tamales with filling, which can lead to messy tamales that are hard to steam and often result in leaking or unraveling during cooking.

Can I Use Store-Bought Masa For This Recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought masa for this recipe. In fact, it’s a great shortcut for saving time. Look for masa harina specifically labeled for tamales, which is finely ground for a smoother texture.

Most store-bought masa blends only require the addition of fat and liquid to make the dough, making them a convenient option for quick tamales without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I Use Canned Green Chiles Instead Of Roasting Them Myself?

Yes, you can use canned green chiles instead of roasting fresh ones. Canned green chiles are a convenient alternative and still provide a nice mild heat and flavor.

 However, roasting your own chiles enhances the flavor with a smoky depth. If you use canned, choose those with no added preservatives or excessive salt for a cleaner taste, and make sure to drain them well before using.

Can I Make These Tamales Less Spicy?

Yes, you can definitely make these tamales less spicy. To reduce the heat, simply use milder green chiles, such as Anaheim chiles instead of spicier varieties like Jalapeños.

You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the chiles, as most of the heat is contained there. Alternatively, you can balance the heat by adding extra cheese to the filling or serving the tamales with a cooling side like sour cream or guacamole.

Conclusion

Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales are one of my favorite go-to recipes whenever I want to make something that brings people together.

These Recipe For Green Chile Cheese Tamales are a true labor of love and a fantastic way to bring bold, comforting flavors to your table.

The creamy cheese and spicy green chiles wrapped in soft masa dough create a combination that’s both satisfying and delicious.

While the process may take some time, the effort is absolutely worth it when you get to enjoy the final result.

I hope you try this recipe and experience the joy of making and eating homemade tamales. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, these tamales will always be a hit!