1 serving (170 grams) contains 296 calories, 12.5 grams of protein, 15.4 grams of fat, and 26.9 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
295.8 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.4 g | 19% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 34 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 804.1 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26.9 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 14% | |
| Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| protein | 12.5 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 20.4 mcg | 101% | |
| Calcium | 127.5 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 258.4 mg | 5% | |
* 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
Source of Calories
About Pork tamale
Pork tamales are a traditional dish originating from Mesoamerican cuisine, particularly popular in Mexican and Central American cultures. Made from a masa dough (corn-based) filled with seasoned pork and wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves before steaming, tamales are a beloved comfort food. Nutritionally, pork tamales provide a mix of carbohydrates from the masa, proteins from the pork, and fats from cooking ingredients like lard. They also contain vitamins like B6 from pork, minerals such as iron, and dietary fiber from corn. While considered calorie-dense, moderation can make tamales a flavorful addition to a balanced diet.
Health Benefits
- Provides iron for improved oxygen transport, especially because pork is a rich source of heme iron.
- Offers vitamin B6, which supports brain health and aids in energy metabolism.
- Contains dietary fiber from the masa dough, which helps regulate digestion.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat steamed tamales by steaming or microwaving for best texture preservation.
Common Questions About Pork tamale Nutrition
What is the nutritional content of a pork tamale?
A pork tamale typically contains about 280-350 calories, 10-14g of protein, 15-20g of fat, and 25-30g of carbohydrates depending on the recipe. It also provides vitamins like B6 and B12 from pork and small amounts of iron, but it can be high in sodium due to the seasoning and masa.
Can I eat pork tamales on a keto diet?
Pork tamales are generally not suitable for a keto diet because they are high in carbohydrates, primarily from the masa dough which can contribute 25-30g or more of carbs per tamale. A keto-friendly option would involve using almond flour or cheese-based dough as a substitute.
Are pork tamales healthy?
Pork tamales can offer a good source of protein and energy but may not be considered 'healthy' due to their high calorie count, saturated fat content from pork lard, and sodium levels. Moderation is recommended, particularly for individuals managing heart health or weight.
How many pork tamales should I eat in one serving?
A typical serving size is one to two pork tamales, depending on their size and calorie content (280-350 calories each). Pairing them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables can help balance the meal nutritionally.
How do pork tamales compare to chicken tamales nutritionally?
Pork tamales are generally higher in fat and calories compared to chicken tamales due to the fattier nature of pork. Chicken tamales may have slightly less saturated fat, but both types provide similar protein content and carbohydrate levels from the masa.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Pork tamale DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
