Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings

Short Description

Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings is a hearty, flavorful dish inspired by classic tamales but served in a warm, comforting bowl. This soup features a rich, spiced broth with tender shredded meat, beans, and vegetables, topped with fluffy masa dumplings that taste just like the inside of a tamale. It’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tamale flavors in a fraction of the time—no wrapping or steaming required.
• Hearty and filling—loaded with meat, beans, and masa dumplings.
• Perfect for meal prep—flavors get even better the next day.
• One-pot meal—easy cleanup and minimal effort.
• Customizable—adjust spice levels and ingredients to your liking.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Soup Base:

• Shredded chicken, beef, or pork (pre-cooked)
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fire-roasted tomatoes
• Green chilies
• Black beans (drained)
• Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• Chicken or beef broth
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper

Tamale Dumplings:

• Masa harina (corn dough flour)
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Warm chicken broth
• Butter or lard
• Shredded cheese (optional)

Garnishes (Optional):

• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Avocado slices
• Crumbled queso fresco

Directions

Make the Soup:

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Build the broth: Add fire-roasted tomatoes, green chilies, black beans, corn, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the meat: Stir in shredded chicken, beef, or pork. Let the soup simmer while you prepare the dumplings.

Make the Tamale Dumplings:

1. Mix the dough: In a bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter or lard, then slowly mix in warm broth until a soft dough forms. Stir in shredded cheese if using.
2. Form the dumplings: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).

Cook the Dumplings:

1. Drop dumplings into the soup: Gently place the masa dumplings into the simmering soup.
2. Cover and cook: Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are light and fluffy.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or extra jalapeños.
• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add more beans or mushrooms instead of meat.
• Extra Hearty: Stir in cooked rice or diced potatoes.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6 hours, then add dumplings in the last 30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
• Freezing: Freeze without dumplings for up to 3 months. Make fresh dumplings when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant masa for the dumplings?

Yes! Just follow the instructions for making tamale dough and adjust broth as needed.

How do I keep the dumplings from falling apart?

Ensure the masa dough is firm enough to hold its shape before adding it to the soup.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.

Can I add cheese to the soup?

Yes! Stir in shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco for extra richness.

What other toppings work well?

Diced onions, tortilla strips, hot sauce, or fresh lime juice add great texture and flavor.

How do I thicken the soup?

Mash some of the beans or add a masa harina slurry (masa mixed with broth) to thicken it.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Masa harina is naturally gluten-free, so just check your broth and seasoning labels.

Can I use beef instead of chicken?

Yes! Slow-cooked shredded beef or pork works beautifully in this soup.

What’s the best way to make it milder for kids?

Reduce the chili powder and green chilies, and add extra sour cream to mellow out the spice.

Can I use canned tamales instead of dumplings?

You can, but the homemade masa dumplings give it the best tamale-like texture.

Conclusion

Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings is a delicious, comforting meal that captures the essence of tamales in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking for a fun twist on traditional tamales, this soup is the perfect balance of bold flavors and soft, pillowy dumplings. Try it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a bowl of warmth and goodness!

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