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Best Easy Tamales de Chepil Recipe

Name: Best Easy Tamales de Chepil Recipe
Total time: 105 min
Yield: 170 g
Ingredients: masa harina (corn flour) 2 cups; chepil leaves (fresh, chopped) 1 cup; vegetable broth 1.25 cups; banana leaves 6 pieces; vegetable oil 0.25 cup; baking powder 1 tsp; salt 0.5 tsp

Oaxacan tamales filled with chepil herb and wrapped in banana leaves offer an earthy, aromatic flavor. This vegetarian option is a fresh, healthy choice rich in traditional Oaxacan cuisine.

Cook 105 min Difficulty NORMAL 255 kcal

#vegetarian #low fat #Oaxacan cuisine #Mexican tamales

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

masa harina (corn flour) 2 cups
chepil leaves (fresh, chopped) 1 cup
vegetable broth 1.25 cups
banana leaves 6 pieces
vegetable oil 0.25 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

baking powder 1 tsp
salt 0.5 tsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 39 g 61%

Protein 7 g 11%

Fat 9 g 28%

Serving size 170g

Cooking steps

1

Soak banana leaves in hot water for 10 minutes to soften; pat dry and set aside.
2

In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in vegetable broth until a soft dough forms.
3

Mix vegetable oil into the dough, kneading until smooth and pliable. Fold in chopped chepil leaves until evenly distributed.
4

Cut banana leaves into rectangles about 10x8 inches. Spread 1/2 cup masa mixture in the center of each leaf, leaving space on all sides.
5

Fold the banana leaves around the masa to form secure packets, tucking ends underneath. Arrange tamales vertically in a steamer basket and steam over simmering water for 75-90 minutes, checking water level occasionally.
6

Remove tamales from the steamer and let rest for 10 minutes before unwrapping and serving.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in Tamales de Chepil?

The defining ingredient is chepil leaves, a traditional Oaxacan herb that gives tamales a distinct earthy and aromatic flavor. Combined with masa harina and steamed in banana leaves, chepil delivers the unique character of this regional tamale.

Q. How do you ensure the tamales stay moist and don't overcook?

The key is to maintain gentle steam and keep enough water in the steamer during the 75–90 minute cooking time. Using banana leaves helps retain moisture, protecting the masa from drying out. Always let tamales rest briefly after steaming for best texture.

Q. How many calories and what is the nutrition breakdown per serving?

Each serving contains about 255 kcal, with 39g carbohydrates (61% of calories), 7g protein (11%), and 9g fat (28%). This makes Tamales de Chepil a balanced vegetarian option lower in fat than many traditional tamales.

Q. What should the masa texture be like after mixing?

The masa should be soft, smooth, and pliable but not sticky. If it's too dry, add a little more broth; if too wet, sprinkle some extra masa harina. A well-balanced dough ensures tender, cohesive tamales after steaming.

Best Easy Tamales de Chepil Recipe

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