Keto Tamales Recipe: Traditional Flavor, Fewer Carbs

Welcome, friends and health enthusiasts, to another delicious keto recipe on our culinary journey! Today, we’re diving into the world of traditional Mexican food with a keto twist – Keto Tamales. As we all know, the ketogenic diet focuses on low-carb, high-fat foods, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. And with our keto tamales recipe, we’re serving up all the traditional flavors while keeping those carb counts down. So, grab your aprons and let’s get cooking!

Benefits of Keto Tamales

If you’re following a keto diet, incorporating keto tamales into your meal plan offers numerous advantages. These tasty treats are not only low in carbs but also high in healthy fats, making them perfect for maintaining ketosis. Plus, they are grain-free, eliminating any concerns about hidden carbs. So, enjoy the flavors you love without derailing your keto journey!

Traditional Tamales vs. Keto Tamales

Now, let’s talk about the key differences between traditional tamales and our keto-friendly version. Traditional tamales are typically made with masa harina, which is derived from corn and, unfortunately, high in carbs. In our keto tamales recipe, we’ll be using almond flour as a low-carb substitute. We promise the taste will not disappoint, and you’ll still get to experience the same authentic texture!

Ingredients

To embark on this keto tamales adventure, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:

• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/4 cup psyllium husk powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup lard (melted)
• 1 cup chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
• 1.5 pounds cooked and shredded chicken or pork
• Spices for seasoning (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder)
• Tamale wrappers (we recommend using corn husks or parchment paper for a keto-friendly option)

Instructions

Now that we have everything prepared, let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making these delightful keto tamales:

1. Soak the tamale wrappers: If you’re using corn husks, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften. If you prefer parchment paper, cut it into square pieces.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add in the melted lard and chicken broth, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
3. Season the meat: Take your cooked and shredded chicken or pork and season it with your choice of spices, such as cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Assemble the tamales: Take a soaked corn husk or parchment paper square, and spread a thin layer of dough onto it. Leave some space around the edges. Add a spoonful of seasoned meat on top of the dough, and then carefully roll the tamale, folding the sides inwards. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used.
5. Steam the tamales: Place the tamales upright in a steamer basket or steamer pot, making sure they’re tightly packed to prevent unraveling. Steam for 60-90 minutes, or until the tamales are cooked through and easily separate from the wrappers.
6. Serve and enjoy: Allow the tamales to cool slightly before serving. You can serve them as is for a traditional approach or elevate the dish with keto-friendly toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream. Enjoy the authentic Mexican flavor of keto tamales guilt-free!

Tips for Keto Tamales Success

Now that you know how to make keto tamales like a pro, here are a few tips to ensure your culinary adventure turns out perfectly:

• Use parchment paper: If you prefer a more keto-friendly option than corn husks, parchment paper squares work well as wrappers.
• Don’t skip the seasonings: Spicing up your meat filling with flavors like cumin and paprika adds an extra layer of deliciousness to your keto tamales.
• Steam gently: Be patient when steaming your tamales, as this slow and steady process helps to achieve tender perfection.

Other Keto-Friendly Tamale Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few alternative fillings or variations to enjoy with your keto-friendly tamales:

• Cheese and Jalapeño: Add a slice of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese and a jalapeño slice to your tamale before rolling.
• Beef and Green Chile: Instead of chicken or pork, use seasoned ground beef combined with roasted green chiles for a Southwestern twist.
• Spinach and Feta: Mix cooked spinach and crumbled feta into your dough, creating a tasty vegetarian option.

Experiment with flavors and textures to create your own signature keto tamales!

Conclusion

And there you have it, friends – a delicious journey through the world of keto tamales. By combining the traditional flavors of Mexican cuisine with the principles of a keto diet, we’ve created a guilt-free version of this beloved dish. With low-carb substitutes and wholesome ingredients, you can savor the taste of authentic tamales while staying true to your health goals. So, why not gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on your culinary adventure with keto tamales? Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!