Best Easy Tamales de Vigilia Recipe

Lenten tamales filled with beans, cheese, or fish offer meat-free options for fasting days. This family-friendly dish is a fresh, traditional, protein-rich option during Cuaresma.

Cook 120 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#vegetarian #high protein #family meal #lenten recipe
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • corn husks 16 pieces
  • masa harina 2 cups
  • vegetable broth 1.5 cups
  • canned black beans 1.5 cups
  • queso fresco 6 oz
  • olive oil 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • baking powder 1 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 44 g 52%
Protein 14 g 16%
Fat 11 g 32%
Serving size 170g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until pliable, making sure to submerge them fully.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, mix masa harina, baking powder, salt, and olive oil. Add vegetable broth gradually and knead into a soft, moist dough. Rest the masa covered for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Mash black beans lightly with black pepper and oregano, then fold in the crumbled queso fresco to evenly distribute the filling ingredients.

  4. 4

    Spread about 2 heaping tablespoons of masa onto the center of each drained corn husk, leaving space at the edges. Add 2 tablespoons of the bean and cheese filling to the center.

  5. 5

    Fold the husk sides over the filling, then fold up the narrow end to close the bottom. Arrange tamales upright with open ends up in a steamer basket and steam over medium-high heat for about 75 minutes, replenishing water if needed, until masa pulls easily from the husk.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in Best Easy Tamales de Vigilia Recipe?
The essential ingredient in this recipe is masa harina, which forms the soft, authentic tamal dough. The filling of black beans and queso fresco also plays a major role, providing both protein and the signature flavor for meatless tamales.
Q. How do I ensure my tamales have the best texture while steaming?
To prevent dry or dense tamales, make sure the masa dough is moist and soft before spreading onto the husks. Steam gently over medium-high heat and check after 75 minutes — the masa should separate easily from the husk when done.
Q. What makes the filling flavorful in this recipe?
The combination of mashed black beans, queso fresco, black pepper, and oregano delivers a savory and aromatic filling. Oregano adds a subtle herbal note while the cheese brings creaminess, giving every bite a satisfying depth.
Q. How many calories and nutrients are there per serving of these tamales?
Each serving of Tamales de Vigilia contains 340 kcal, with 44g carbohydrates (52% of calories), 14g protein (16%), and 11g fat (32%), making them a protein-rich yet meatless option suitable for vegetarian diets.
Q. What is the ideal heat and timing for steaming tamales de vigilia?
Tamales should be steamed over medium-high heat for around 75 minutes. Monitor water levels to prevent burning and ensure even cooking, allowing the masa to firm up without drying out.
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