This hearty vegetarian tamale filling brings together the comforting richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the earthy depth of cumin and oregano. The addition of toasted pine nuts and chopped black olives provides a delightful crunch and briny contrast to the soft, melted cheese base. Roasted green chilies add a gentle kick, while sweet corn kernels offer bursts of sweetness in every bite. This filling is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or potlucks. It&# 226;ÂÂs designed to be moist and flavorful, ensuring that your tamales stay juicy and satisfying without the need for meat.
Vegetarian Tamale Filling
Description
This hearty vegetarian tamale filling brings together the comforting richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the earthy depth of cumin and oregano. The addition of toasted pine nuts and chopped black olives provides a delightful crunch and briny contrast to the soft, melted cheese base. Roasted green chilies add a gentle kick, while sweet corn kernels offer bursts of sweetness in every bite. This filling is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or potlucks. It&# 226;ÂÂs designed to be moist and flavorful, ensuring that your tamales stay juicy and satisfying without the need for meat.Ingredients
Directions
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Grate the sharp cheddar cheese using a food processor or box grater until fine.
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Chop the onions and garlic finely, using a food processor for efficiency if desired.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheese, chopped onions, and garlic.
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Add the chopped black olives, pine nuts, drained corn kernels, and chopped green chilies to the bowl.
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Sprinkle in the dried oregano and ground cumin, then mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
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Stir in the olive oil to bind the ingredients together before filling your tamales.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 939.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 76.8g119%
- Saturated Fat 48.0g240%
- Cholesterol 219.6mg74%
- Sodium 810.0mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 3.5g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 1.9g
- Protein 61.2g123%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best flavor, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden before adding them to the filling.
You can substitute Swiss or white cheese for the cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor profile.
Store unused filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This filling works well in steamed tamales, baked tamale pies, or as a stuffing for peppers.
