Chipotle Sweet Potato, Spinach, and Black Bean Tamales

Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish known for their versatility and rich flavors. This Chipotle Sweet Potato, Spinach, and Black Bean Tamale recipe combines earthy flavors with a hint of smokiness, making each bite a delightful experience. These tamales are perfect for a gathering, a cozy family meal, or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients

To create this flavor-packed dish, you will need the following ingredients:

Tamale Dough

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour for tamales)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup vegetable shortening or vegan butter
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth or water

Filling

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for spice preference)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: ½ teaspoon cumin and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for additional flavor

Wrapping

• 12-15 dried corn husks, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

1. Begin by boiling the cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them in a bowl until smooth, adding salt to taste.
2. In the same bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with black beans, chopped spinach, and minced chipotle pepper. If using, add cumin and smoked paprika to enhance the flavor. Set aside this savory filling.

Make the Tamale Dough

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the vegetable shortening until fluffy. Gradually add the masa harina mixture, alternating with the vegetable broth, mixing until the dough is smooth and holds together. The consistency should be light and airy but still hold its shape.

Assemble the Tamales

5. Take a soaked corn husk and lay it flat. Spread about ¼ cup of the tamale dough onto the center of the husk, leaving enough space to fold the sides. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the dough.
6. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling and then fold up the bottom to create a pocket. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used.

Steam the Tamales

7. Set up a large steamer pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Arrange the tamales upright in the steamer basket. You may need to place a few on their sides to fit them all.
8. Cover the tamales with a damp cloth and steam for about 60-90 minutes. Check the water level periodically and add more if necessary to prevent burning.

Enjoy Your Tamales

9. Once cooked, let the tamales cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed as is or paired with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or a drizzle of crema.

Cooking Tips

• Selecting Ingredients: Choose ripe sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and creamy filling. Canned black beans are a great time-saver, but for a fresher taste, consider cooking dried beans from scratch.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chipotle pepper quantity according to your heat preference. You can also experiment with different types of chiles for a unique flavor.
• Vegan Option: This tamale recipe is naturally vegan; however, if you prefer a richer taste, consider using a dairy-free crema as a topping.
• Storage: Tamales can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat them in a steamer for the best texture.

Pairing Suggestions

These Chipotle Sweet Potato, Spinach, and Black Bean Tamales pair beautifully with a fresh corn salsa or a zesty avocado salad. For a complete meal, serve with a side of lime wedges and cilantro for a refreshing finish.

Experimenting with flavors is encouraged, so don’t hesitate to play around with different fillings like roasted red peppers, corn, or cheese. The versatility of tamales allows for endless possibilities.

As you embark on your culinary journey, try this recipe and indulge in the comforting flavors of tamales. Consider sharing your creations or tips on your favorite social media platforms; you might inspire others to explore the world of homemade tamales!