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.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 12

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)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, and baking powder. Whisk together to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 3

Add the shortening (or lard) to the dry ingredients and use a fork or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken (or your chosen protein) with the green enchilada sauce.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

Add 1 teaspoon of the chicken and enchilada sauce mixture to each masa cup, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.

Step 8

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.

Step 9

Remove the Tamale Bites from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing them from the tin.

Step 10

Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1198.1 grams (1198.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2840

Total Fat 191.40g	245%
Saturated Fat 85.90g	430%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 495mg	165%
Sodium 5428mg	236%
Total Carbohydrate 158.70g	58%
Dietary Fiber 15.20g	54%
Total Sugars 6.90g
Protein 125.10g	250%

Vitamin D 24IU	120%
Calcium 1254mg	96%
Iron 9mg	47%
Potassium 1579mg	34%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.3%

Protein: 17.5%

Carbs: 22.2%