Ingredients
For the Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tamale Dumplings:
1 cup masa harina
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons melted butter (or oil for dairy-free)
Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Optional Toppings:
Fresh cilantro
Diced avocado
Crumbled queso fresco
Preparation
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
Step 2: Build the Base Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough While the soup simmers, prepare the tamale dumplings. In a medium bowl, whisk together masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Add the broth and melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms. If desired, fold in shredded cheese for added flavor.
Step 4: Shape the Dumplings Using your hands, roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside on a plate.
Step 5: Cook the Dumplings Gently drop the dumplings into the simmering soup one at a time. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the dumplings are firm and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of dumplings. Garnish with cilantro, diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
Variations
This recipe is easily customizable to suit your preferences:
Protein Addition: Add shredded chicken, ground beef, or crumbled chorizo to make the soup heartier
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add more beans or diced zucchini for extra bulk.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
Different Dumplings: Mix chopped herbs or spices like cilantro or chili powder into the dumpling dough for a flavor twist.
Cooking Notes
Dumpling Texture: The dumplings should be tender but firm. Avoid overmixing the dough to keep them light.
Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Masa Harina Tip: Use fresh masa harina for the best texture and flavor in the dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with:
Cornbread: A slice of cornbread complements the tamale flavors beautifully.
Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips for scooping and crunch.