Imagine sinking your teeth into a tamale that’s not only bursting with flavor but also fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle—it’s like finding a hidden gem in the world of comfort food. These easy keto tamales are not just a low-carb delight; they’re a culinary revelation that combines tradition with modern dietary needs. When I first tried them, the rich, savory filling wrapped in a soft, almond-flour-based dough was so unexpectedly satisfying that I couldn’t help but make them again the very next weekend.
Steps
- Prepare the dough by mixing almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, blend melted butter, eggs, and chicken broth until smooth. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- For the filling, cook ground beef in a pan over medium heat until browned. Add spices, such as cumin and chili powder, along with salt, and mix well. Stir in tomato paste and water, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Assemble the tamales by spreading dough onto each softened corn husk, leaving space at the edges. Place a spoonful of the beef filling onto the dough. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling, then fold the bottom up and secure it closed.
- Steam the tamales by placing them upright in a steamer basket. Fill a pot with water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the tamales, and bring it to a boil. Cover and steam for about an hour, checking periodically to ensure there is enough water in the pot.
- Once cooked, let the tamales cool slightly before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste and enjoy your keto-friendly tamales with a side of salsa or guacamole.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 pound cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
- Corn husks (for wrapping)
FAQ
- What are keto tamales made of?
- Keto tamales are crafted using almond flour or coconut flour instead of traditional corn masa, making them low in carbohydrates while still capturing the classic tamale flavor.
- Can I freeze keto tamales?
- Yes, keto tamales can be frozen. It’s best to wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for optimal freshness.
- How do I reheat keto tamales?
- To reheat keto tamales, you can steam them for about 15-20 minutes or microwave them until warmed through. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
- What fillings are suitable for keto tamales?
- You can fill keto tamales with various low-carb options such as shredded chicken, beef, cheese, or vegetables like peppers and mushrooms to keep them within keto-friendly guidelines.
- Are keto tamales suitable for vegetarians?
- Yes, keto tamales can be adapted for vegetarians by using cheese, beans, or vegetable fillings while ensuring that the “masa” is prepared with keto-friendly, plant-based ingredients.
Tips
- Make sure to use high-quality almond flour to achieve the best texture for your keto tamales. This will help mimic the consistency of traditional masa.
- When wrapping your tamales, ensure the husks are thoroughly soaked in water to make them more pliable, which helps in securely wrapping the filling.
- Consider adding extra spices or seasoning to the filling for enhanced flavor, as keto recipes can sometimes be milder in taste.
- If you find the dough too crumbly, adding a bit of extra liquid, like chicken broth or water, can help bind the ingredients together better.
Equipment
- Steamer Basket or Tamale Steamer – For steaming the tamales.
- Food Processor – To blend ingredients for the tamale dough.
- Corn Husks – While not equipment, they are essential for wrapping tamales and may not be readily available at home.
