Best Easy Tamales de Rajas con Queso Recipe

Masa tamales filled with roasted poblano strips and melting cheese, steamed in corn husks. This vegetarian, family-favorite tamal offers smoky, creamy flavors in every bite.

Cook 95 min Difficulty NORMAL 290 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • masa harina 2 cups
  • vegetable broth 1.5 cups
  • unsalted butter 0.5 cup
  • poblano peppers 4 pieces
  • Oaxaca cheese 8 oz
  • corn husks 16 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 32 g 44%
Protein 9 g 12%
Fat 13 g 44%
Serving size 130g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Soak corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes until soft and pliable.

  2. 2

    Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under the broiler, turning until skins are blistered and blackened. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel, remove seeds, and cut into thin strips.

  3. 3

    Cream the unsalted butter in a large bowl. Gradually add masa harina, kosher salt, and vegetable broth, mixing until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms.

  4. 4

    Lay out a softened corn husk. Spread about 1/4 cup dough in the center, forming a rectangle. Place several poblano strips and generous shreds of Oaxaca cheese in the center.

  5. 5

    Fold sides of the husk inwards, then fold the bottom up. Repeat with remaining husks and filling.

  6. 6

    Arrange tamales upright in a steamer, cover with extra husks. Steam over gentle simmer for 60 minutes, checking occasionally for water level and replenishing as needed.

  7. 7

    Allow tamales to rest 10 minutes after steaming before serving for best creamy cheese texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient is masa harina, which forms the soft, pillowy base of these tamales, complemented by roasted poblano peppers for smokiness and Oaxaca cheese for creaminess. These components give the dish its signature flavor and texture.
Q. How do I ensure the cheese stays creamy inside the tamales?
For best results, steam the tamales gently and let them rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This prevents the cheese from overcooking and helps it stay soft and creamy within the masa.
Q. Which step is crucial for developing a smoky flavor?
Roasting the poblano peppers until their skins blister and blacken is essential. This unlocks their signature smoky aroma and rich taste, which pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese filling.
Q. What’s the nutrition profile per serving?
Each serving of Tamales de Rajas con Queso delivers about 290 kcal, with 32g carbohydrates (44%), 9g protein (12%), and 13g fat (44% of calories). This balance makes it a satisfying vegetarian meal.
AI 채팅 아이콘