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Tamale Soup with Tamale Dumplings

A hearty and comforting soup filled with rich flavors and light tamale dumplings, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
  • 1 cup onion, chopped Adds sweetness and flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic flavor
  • 2 pieces jalapeños, chopped Remove seeds for milder taste
  • 4 cups chicken broth (Halal) Base for the soup
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained Adds acidity and flavor
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained For protein
  • 1 cup corn kernels Frozen or fresh
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin For warmth and depth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder For spiciness
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season to preference
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish Adds freshness
For the Tamale Dumplings
  • 2 cups masa harina Base for dumplings
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps to rise
  • 1 cup chicken broth (Halal) For making dough
  • Salt to taste Seasoning for dumplings
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) For extra flavor

Method
 

Prepare the Soup Base
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
  1. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, ground cumin, and chili powder.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Make the Tamale Dumplings
  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually add in the chicken broth, mixing until a soft dough forms. If you’re using cheese, fold it into the dough at this stage.
Cook the Dumplings
  1. Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering soup.
  2. Allow them to cook covered for about 15-20 minutes, or until they have risen and are cooked through. Do not remove the lid while the dumplings are cooking, as the steam helps them rise.
Serve
  1. Once the dumplings are fluffy and the soup is bubbling, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro for a splash of color and additional flavor.

Notes

Try adding different vegetables or using vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Avoid overcooking the dumplings; they should be light and fluffy.