The Alamo Tamale Supper is a flavorful Tex-Mex dish typically prepared in a crockpot (slow cooker). While it may not have a specific historical origin tied to the Alamo itself, it is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Texas and Mexican cuisine. This dish combines elements of tamales and a hearty stew. Here are the components, steps to prepare it, and an estimate of the time needed:
Components:
- Pork or Beef: You’ll need around 1-1.5 pounds of lean pork or beef, cut into small cubes.
- Tamales: You can use store-bought tamales or make your own if you prefer. Plan for about 6-8 tamales.
- Chili Sauce: You’ll need 1 can (about 10-12 ounces) of chili sauce.
- Onions and Bell Peppers: Chop one onion and one bell pepper.
- Canned Corn: 1 can (around 15 ounces) of corn, drained.
- Black Olives: About half a cup of sliced black olives.
- Seasonings: Use a combination of chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cheese: Grated cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for topping.
Steps to Prepare:
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the cubed pork or beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
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Layer in the Crockpot: Place the browned meat at the bottom of your crockpot.
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Add Vegetables: Layer the chopped onions, bell peppers, canned corn, and sliced black olives on top of the meat.
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Season: Sprinkle the seasonings over the vegetables. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
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Pour in Chili Sauce: Pour the can of chili sauce over everything in the crockpot.
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Top with Tamales: Arrange the tamales on top of the other ingredients. You can cut them into smaller pieces if you prefer.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. The slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld together.
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Serve: When it’s done, serve the Alamo Tamale Supper in bowls, garnished with grated cheese.
Time Needed:
- Preparation Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes.
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low heat in the crockpot.
This dish is known for its rich and hearty flavors, making it a great option for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Enjoy your Alamo Tamale Supper!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alamo Tamale Supper prepared in a crockpot:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: Around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used.
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams.
- Fat: About 15-20 grams.
- Carbohydrates: Around 40-50 grams.
- Fiber: 4-6 grams.
- Sugar: 3-5 grams.
- Sodium: Varies based on the specific brands of ingredients used, but it can be moderate to high due to canned products like chili sauce and olives.
Health Information:
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Protein: The dish provides a good source of protein from the pork or beef, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function.
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Fiber: With the addition of vegetables like bell peppers and corn, this meal contains a decent amount of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you feeling full.
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Moderate Calories: The calorie content is moderate, making it suitable for a balanced meal when portioned appropriately.
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Sodium Awareness: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you use canned chili sauce and olives, which can be high in salt. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider low-sodium alternatives or use them sparingly.
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Customization: You can make this dish healthier by choosing lean cuts of meat, using whole-grain tamales or reducing the number of tamales, and incorporating more vegetables.
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Allergies: Be aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions. Tamales may contain wheat, and some individuals are sensitive to gluten. Check the ingredient labels for allergen information.
Remember that the specific nutritional values can vary depending on the brands and quantities of ingredients you use. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s a good idea to consult with a nutritionist or dietitian for personalized guidance.
