Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the comforting flavors of a classic tamale with the warmth of a rich, vegetable-filled soup. The masa harina dumplings add a unique, authentic touch to this easy-to-make meal, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the flavors of traditional tamales in an easy-to-make soup.
• Packed with wholesome ingredients like black beans, corn, and vegetables.
• Features fluffy tamale dumplings that cook right in the soup.
• A vegetarian (and easily vegan) recipe that’s hearty and satisfying.
• Perfect for meal prep or leftovers—it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tamale Dumplings:

• 1 cup masa harina
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup warm water

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Build the Soup

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Make the Tamale Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the vegetable oil and warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 4: Add the Dumplings to the Soup

1. Once the soup has simmered, use a spoon to drop small spoonfuls of the tamale dough into the soup.
2. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam in the soup for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and light in texture.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has dumplings.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include shredded chicken or cooked chorizo for a non-vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
• Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco over the soup before serving.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini, sweet potatoes, or spinach for additional nutrients.
• Tomato Base: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup (without the dumplings) for up to 3 months. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular flour instead of masa harina?

Masa harina is essential for the authentic tamale flavor and texture, so substitutions aren’t recommended.

2. Are the dumplings gluten-free?

Yes, masa harina is naturally gluten-free, making this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I make the soup spicier?

Add diced green chilies, chipotle peppers, or extra chili powder to increase the heat.

4. Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?

Prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it. Add to the soup just before serving.

5. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, chicken broth works well if you’re not aiming for a vegetarian dish.

6. How do I prevent the dumplings from falling apart?

Ensure the dough is firm but moist and avoid overmixing. Drop spoonfuls gently into the soup without stirring immediately.

7. Can I add rice or quinoa to the soup?

Yes, cooked rice or quinoa can be stirred in for extra heartiness.

8. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Simmer the soup uncovered to reduce the liquid, or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.

9. Can I make this soup vegan?

The recipe is naturally vegan as written if you use vegetable oil and broth.

10. What pairs well with this soup?

Serve with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional tamales, bringing all their comforting flavors into a hearty soup. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for the perfect finishing touch, and enjoy a bowl of this cozy, satisfying meal!

Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings

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• Author: fella
• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 35min
• Total Time: 50min
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: soup
• Method: stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Tamale Soup with tender masa dumplings! Packed with beans, corn, and spices, this vegetarian soup is a delicious twist on traditional tamales.

 

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tamale Dumplings:

• 1 cup masa harina
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup warm water

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

. Make the Soup Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

2. Prepare the Tamale Dumplings

1. In a mixing bowl, combine masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add vegetable oil and warm water, mixing until a soft dough forms.

3. Add Dumplings to the Soup

1. Once the soup has simmered, use a spoon to drop small portions of the tamale dough into the soup.
2. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam in the soup for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and fluffy.

4. Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro.
2. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

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Notes

• Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
• Make it heartier by adding shredded chicken or crumbled sausage.
• For a vegan version, ensure vegetable broth and other ingredients are plant-based.