Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings

Dive into a comforting bowl of Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings, a delightful fusion that combines the rich flavors of tamales with a hearty soup base. This recipe features ground beef, colorful vegetables, and a medley of beans and tomatoes, creating a satisfying and filling dish.

The optional tamale dumplings, made from masa harina and cheese, add a unique twist, making each spoonful even more delightful. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Let’s get cooking!

Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings

Ingredients:

Tamale Soup:

1 lb. ground beef

1 C. chopped onion

1 C. chopped green pepper

1 (28 oz.) can stewed tomatoes

1 (14 oz.) can Rotel tomatoes

1 (14 oz.) can pinto beans, undrained

1 (14 oz.) can corn, drained

1 (14 oz.) can beef broth

2 (15 oz.) cans beef tamales in chili sauce OR 3 to 4 homemade tamales, plus a can (10 oz.) of enchilada sauce

1 can white hominy, drained

Cumin, to taste (optional)

Cilantro, to taste (optional)

Grated cheese for topping

Cilantro for garnish

Tamale Dumplings (optional):

1 C. masa harina

1/2 C. shredded cheese

1/2 C. chicken broth divided

3 T. oil

Instructions:

Tamale Soup:

Remove paper from individual tamales, chop into 1 inch bite size pieces, and set aside; reserve sauce.

Cook beef together with onions and bell pepper until beef is fully cooked. Drain away any excess fat and transfer to a large soup pot.

Add tomatoes, hominy, beans, corn, and broth. Simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.

Stir in tamale pieces and 1/2 cup of reserved sauce. Heat through.

Serve topped with your favorite cheese such as a Colby Jack mix.

If desired, garnish with cilantro.

Tamale Dumplings:

Mix together masa harina, shredded cheese, broth, and oil in a mixing bowl until combined.

Once soup is boiling, drop about 1 tablespoon each of masa mixture into the boiling soup. Once all dumplings are in the soup, allow to simmer for 5-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the dumpling comes out clean.

Tips:

I used 3 cans of tamales today because I really like them.

Notes:

Meat Options: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

Tamales: If you’re using store-bought tamales, choose a flavor that complements the soup. Homemade tamales can add a personal touch; just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the soup.

Beans and Corn: You can use any type of beans you prefer, such as black beans or kidney beans. Canned corn can be swapped with fresh or frozen corn if you prefer.

Spice Level: For added heat, consider using spicy Rotel tomatoes or adding diced jalapeños. Adjust the cumin to your taste for a warm, earthy flavor.

Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado make excellent garnishes. Add shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a delicious topping.

Dumpling Variations: The masa harina dumplings can be customized by adding spices, herbs, or even diced jalapeños for extra flavor.

Cooking Time: The simmering time can be adjusted based on how thick you want the soup. If it gets too thick, add more broth or water.

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so without the dumplings, as they may become mushy upon reheating. Freeze the soup separately and add fresh dumplings when reheating.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use leftover tamales for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover tamales work great in this soup. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tamales and masa harina. Always check the labels to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat.

Add more beans and vegetables for heartiness.

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level depends on the type of tomatoes and additional spices you use.

Adjust with mild or spicy Rotel and add jalapeños to increase heat.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! It freezes well, but it’s best to freeze it without the dumplings.

Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

What can I use instead of masa harina for the dumplings?

You can try using all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend, though it may alter the texture slightly.

How long does it take to prepare and cook the soup?

The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

What are some good toppings for this soup?

Great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for added flavor and freshness.