Tamal de Cazuela (Mexican Tamale Pie) With Black Bean Filling Recipe

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Are you craving a hearty and delicious Mexican dish that will satisfy your taste buds?

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Tamal de Cazuela (Mexican Tamale Pie) With Black Bean Filling Recipe
Total
2 hr 30 min
Servings
6

Method

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina and broth.

  2. Stir the mixture until it is thoroughly incorporated.

  3. In a separate bowl, combine lard, salt, and baking powder. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture at medium-high speed until it is lightly whipped, which should take about 1 minute.

  4. Gradually add 1/4 of the re-hydrated masa to the lard mixture, beating between each addition until it is thoroughly incorporated. The resulting masa should have a soft and spreadable consistency, similar to hummus.

  5. Cover the masa with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 1 hour.

  6. Microwave the ancho chiles until they become fragrant and pliable, which should take about 15 to 30 seconds. Transfer the chiles to a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup, add broth, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and microwave on high power until it barely simmers, approximately 3 minutes. Let the mixture steep for at least 5 minutes. Then, using a blender or immersion blender, blend the mixture until it becomes smooth.

  7. In a skillet, heat lard over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add onion and garlic, and cook until they become softened, around 3 minutes. Add beans and continue cooking until they are heated through. Use a potato masher, bean masher, or wooden spoon to mash the beans into a chunky purée.

About this recipe

Are you craving a hearty and delicious Mexican dish that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than Tamal de Cazuela, also known as Mexican Tamale Pie! This comforting dish combines the flavors of traditional tamales with a savory black bean filling, all baked to perfection. Get ready to experience a burst of flavors that will transport you straight to the streets of Mexico!

What is Tamal de Cazuela?

Tamal de Cazuela is a Mexican dish that takes the concept of tamales and transforms it into a casserole-style pie. Instead of individual tamales wrapped in corn husks, the tamale dough and filling are layered in a deep baking dish and then baked in the oven. This allows for a simpler preparation while still capturing the essence of traditional tamales.

Why Choose Tamal de Cazuela?

Tamal de Cazuela offers all the flavors and textures of tamales but in an easier-to-make format. It's perfect for those times when you're craving the taste of tamales but don't have the time or patience for the traditional preparation. Plus, the black bean filling adds an extra layer of richness and protein, making it a satisfying and complete meal.

How to Make Tamal de Cazuela

To make Tamal de Cazuela, you'll start by preparing the tamale dough, also known as masa. It's made from ground corn, lard or butter, and a touch of baking powder to help it rise. Once the dough is ready, you'll spread a layer of it in the baking dish, followed by a generous portion of the flavorful black bean filling. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, and then it's ready to go into the oven.

The Black Bean Filling

The black bean filling is the heart of this dish. It's a combination of cooked black beans, onions, garlic, and traditional Mexican spices like cumin and chili powder. The filling is cooked until it's thick and flavorful, adding a delicious contrast to the soft and fluffy tamale dough.

Baking and Serving

Once the Tamal de Cazuela is assembled, it's time to bake it in the oven until the tamale dough is cooked through and golden brown on top. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting the final result. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different filling for Tamal de Cazuela?

Absolutely! While the black bean filling is traditional and delicious, you can experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. Try using shredded chicken, beef, or even cheese for a variation.

. Can I make Tamal de Cazuela in advance?

Yes! Tamal de Cazuela can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until you're ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as a cold dish will take longer to cook through.

. Can I freeze Tamal de Cazuela?

Yes, you can freeze Tamal de Cazuela! Once it has been baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.

. Is Tamal de Cazuela spicy?

The level of spice in Tamal de Cazuela can be adjusted to your preference. If you enjoy a mild dish, you can reduce or omit the spices in the black bean filling. On the other hand, if you like it spicy, feel free to add extra chili powder or even some diced jalapenos.

. Can I make Tamal de Cazuela vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the lard or butter from the tamale dough and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, substitute the lard or butter with a plant-based fat and use vegetable broth and vegan cheese, if desired.

. Can I serve Tamal de Cazuela with salsa or sauce?

Yes! Tamal de Cazuela pairs beautifully with salsa or sauce. You can drizzle it with your favorite salsa, such as salsa verde or red enchilada sauce, or serve it with a side of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess.

. Can I add vegetables to the black bean filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or even spinach to the black bean filling for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to cook them until they're tender before layering them in the dish.

. Can I substitute the corn masa with a different type of dough?

While the corn masa is traditional for Tamal de Cazuela, you can experiment with other types of dough if you prefer. Try using a polenta or cornbread batter for a unique twist on this classic dish.

In conclusion, Tamal de Cazuela is a delicious and satisfying Mexican dish that brings together the flavors of traditional tamales and a savory black bean filling. With its easy preparation and customizable fillings, it's a versatile dish that will please both your family and guests. So why not give it a try and experience the burst of flavors that this tamale pie has to offer?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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