Tamales are a beloved traditional dish people across various cultures have enjoyed for generations. These delicious, pocket-sized treats are tasty and offer a perfect blend of flavors.
While traditional tamales are often filled with meat, we’re going to explore a unique twist on this classic dish – the “Asparagus Tamales Recipe.”
What Are Asparagus Tamales?
Asparagus tamales are a delectable vegetarian version of the conventional tamale, where tender asparagus spears take center stage as the filling.
Wrapped in a flavorful masa dough and steamed to perfection inside corn husks, these tamales offer a delightful burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
The History Of Tamales
The interesting history of tamales may be traced back to the prehistoric civilizations of Mesoamerica thousands of years ago.
They were considered portable and nutritious food, ideal for warriors and travelers due to their long shelf life. Today, tamales are enjoyed during special occasions, holidays, and family gatherings.
Asparagus Tamales Recipe
Recipe Details:
- Time: 2 hours (including soaking time)
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Yield: Approximately 12 tamales
Ingredients For Asparagus Tamales Recipe
To make these mouthwatering asparagus tamales recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- Corn husks
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for added spice)
- ¼ cup olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Soaking The Corn Husks
Before assembling the tamales, soak the corn husks in warm water for about 30 minutes until they become pliable.
2. Preparing The Masa Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, vegetable broth, baking powder, salt, chili powder (if desired), and olive oil. Mix until a smooth, spreadable dough forms.
3. Making The Asparagus Filling
In a pan, sauté diced onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers until they turn soft and aromatic.
Add ground cumin, paprika, fresh cilantro, and lime juice for a burst of flavor. Add the asparagus spears and cook until they are tender-crisp.
4. Assembling The Tamales
Take a soaked corn husk and spread a layer of masa dough in the center. Place a cooked asparagus spear in the middle and fold the corn husk to enclose the filling securely.
5. Steaming The Tamales
Arrange the assembled tamales in a steamer basket and steam them for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the masa dough is fully cooked.
Serving And Enjoying Asparagus Tamales
Serve these delightful asparagus tamales warm with your favorite salsa or guacamole. The combination of tender asparagus and flavorful masa dough is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving (1 Tamale):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
- Potassium: 80mg
Variations And Additions
While asparagus tamales are a delightful treat on their own, you can experiment with various fillings and toppings to suit your preferences.
Some popular variations include adding cheese, roasted vegetables, or black beans to the filling.
Health Benefits Of Asparagus Tamales
Tamale dishes made with asparagus are not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. A great source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber is asparagus.
It supports a healthy heart, encourages intestinal health, and offers antioxidants that improve general wellbeing.
Conclusion
The introduction of asparagus tamales into the world of traditional tamales adds a delightful and healthful dimension to this cherished dish.
By combining cultural heritage with innovative culinary twists, we can continue to enjoy and celebrate the flavors that connect us across generations and cultures.
So, the next time you gather with friends and family, consider serving these asparagus tamales to delight everyone with their unique and delicious charm.
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