Corn tamale

Dinner

Item Rating: 71/100

1 serving (150 grams) contains 250 calories, 6.0 grams of protein, 8.0 grams of fat, and 40.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (240g)

Calories		400.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		12.8 g	16%
	Saturated Fat	4.8 g	24%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		16.0 mg	5%
Sodium		640.0 mg	27%
Total Carbohydrates		64.0 g	23%
	Dietary Fiber	6.4 g	22%
	Sugars	8.0 g
protein		9.6 g	19%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		80.0 mg	6%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		320.0 mg	6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 115 cal (28.1%)

Protein: 38 cal (9.4%)

Carbs: 256 cal (62.5%)

About Corn tamale

Corn tamales are a traditional dish originating from Mesoamerican cuisine, particularly popular in Mexico and Central America. They are made by steaming a corn-based dough, called masa, which is typically wrapped in corn husks. The core ingredients include cornmeal (masa harina), water or broth, and often fillings such as cheese, vegetables, or meats. Corn tamales are relatively high in carbohydrates due to the corn content and provide dietary fiber. They also supply small amounts of essential vitamins such as vitamin B6, niacin, and folate, along with minerals like magnesium and potassium, making them a nourishing comfort food.

Health Benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and promotes regular bowel movements.
• Contains B vitamins such as niacin (vitamin B3) and folate, which help support energy metabolism and red blood cell production.
• Provides magnesium, a mineral important for muscle function and maintaining healthy bones.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains corn, potential dairy (if cheese-filled), gluten (if cross-contaminated)

Suitable for: Vegetarian (if no meat fillings), gluten-free (if prepared without contamination)

Not suitable for: Vegan (if filled with cheese, butter, or meats), low-carb diets

Selection and Storage

Store cooked tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by steaming to preserve texture and moisture.

Common Questions About Corn tamale Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of a corn tamale?

A typical corn tamale contains approximately 190-250 calories, 4-6 grams of protein, 21-30 grams of carbohydrates, and 3-6 grams of fat depending on the recipe. It is also a source of dietary fiber, providing around 2-4 grams per serving, along with small amounts of vitamins like B6, folate, and magnesium.

Is a corn tamale suitable for a keto diet?

Corn tamales are not keto-friendly due to their high carbohydrate content. With 21-30 grams of carbohydrates per tamale, they exceed the typically recommended carb limit for a ketogenic diet. Substituting the corn masa with low-carb alternatives like almond flour might make it more keto-compatible.

Are there any health benefits or concerns with eating corn tamales?

Corn tamales can be a good source of energy and provide fiber for digestive health. However, they may also be high in sodium and saturated fats if prepared traditionally with lard or excessive salt. Moderation and choosing healthier preparation methods, such as steaming instead of frying, can mitigate these concerns.

How many corn tamales should I eat per serving?

A typical serving size is 1-2 tamales, which provides 190-500 calories depending on their size and fillings. Pairing tamales with a side of vegetables or a salad can balance the meal nutritionally by adding fiber and essential nutrients.

How do corn tamales compare to flour tamales?

Corn tamales are made with masa harina (corn flour), making them naturally gluten-free. They tend to have more fiber than flour-based tamales but slightly fewer calories. Flour tamales, on the other hand, may have a softer texture but often contain more carbohydrates and are not ideal for gluten-free diets.

Data Sources & Scientific References