Tamales

Tamales are a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients like meats, cheeses, or chilies, then wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and steamed. They are a staple in Mexican and Central American cuisine, often prepared for holidays and celebrations.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Tamales are typically high in carbohydrates from the masa, with moderate protein and fat depending on the filling. A single tamale generally ranges from 200 to 300 calories, providing a good source of energy and some essential nutrients like iron and calcium.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	220 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbs	28 g
Fat	9 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	450 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Potassium	200 mg
Phosphorus	120 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.2 mg
Niacin (B3)	2.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.15 mg
Magnesium	30 mg

Per 1 tamale (approx. 113 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Tamales have been a part of Mesoamerican culture for thousands of years, often used in ancient rituals and communal feasts. Their preparation is a social event, bringing families and communities together to assemble and share these flavorful parcels.