Tamale Bites
Savor the vibrant flavors of traditional tamales in a bite-sized, party-ready form with these irresistible Tamale Bites! Perfectly crafted with a tender masa harina base, these mini treats are filled with a zesty blend of shredded chicken (or your protein of choice), green enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese, delivering a punch of authentic Mexican flavor with every bite. The golden edges and cheesy topping give them a crave-worthy texture, while optional garnishes like sour cream and fresh cilantro elevate them to a stunning appetizer that's sure to impress. Ready in just 50 minutes, these Tamale Bites are perfect for game days, gatherings, or as a fun twist on a classic weeknight dinner.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Masa harina (corn flour)
- 1.25 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 0.5 cup Shortening or lard
- 1 cup Shredded cooked chicken (or pork, optional)
- 0.5 cup Green enchilada sauce (or red, if preferred)
- 1 cup Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 0.5 cup Sour cream (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, and baking powder. Whisk together to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Add the shortening (or lard) to the dry ingredients and use a fork or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Mix until a soft, dough-like consistency forms. The masa should hold together but still be slightly pliable.
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken (or your chosen protein) with the green enchilada sauce.
Take a small ball of the masa dough (about 1.5 tablespoons) and press it into each compartment of the mini muffin tin, creating a small cup shape.
Add 1 teaspoon of the chicken and enchilada sauce mixture to each masa cup, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the masa cups are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the Tamale Bites from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing them from the tin.
Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
236 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.0 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.2 g | 36% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 41 mg | 14% | |
| Sodium | 425 mg | 18% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 13.1 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.6 g | ||
| Protein | 10.4 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 105 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 132 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
