If you're looking for a filling and flavorful meal that won't break the calorie bank, you might want to try 1 tamale (142 g) Picadillo con Papas Tamales. This traditional Mexican dish packs a lot of taste and nutrition, while still managing to keep the calories in check. With only 330 calories per serving, it's a great option for a hearty meal that won't leave you feeling guilty.

Apart from calories, this tamale also offers a decent amount of protein and fat, as well as some carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. Let's take a closer look at its nutritional profile and health benefits.

Whether you're a fan of Mexican cuisine or just looking to try something new, this tamale is worth adding to your meal rotation. With its savory filling of ground beef, potatoes, and spices, and its soft masa dough wrapping, it's a satisfying and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Calorie Content

As mentioned earlier, 1 tamale (142 g) Picadillo con Papas Tamales contains 330 calories. This is a moderate amount for a meal, and it can fit well into most calorie-controlled diets. However, keep in mind that if you're watching your weight or trying to lose it, you may want to pair it with some low-calorie sides or limit your portions. It's also worth noting that the calorie content may vary depending on the recipe and the size of the tamale. Some tamales may have more or less filling, or a thinner or thicker dough, which can affect the overall calorie count.

Protein and Fat

Each tamale provides about 13 grams of protein and 14 grams of fat, with 4 grams of saturated fat. This makes it a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and fat, which provides energy and supports various bodily functions. However, if you're trying to limit your fat intake or following a low-fat diet, you may want to choose leaner protein sources or reduce your portions of high-fat foods.

Carbohydrate Content

One tamale contains about 36 grams of carbohydrates, with 3 grams of fiber and 2 grams of sugar. This makes it a moderate source of carbs, which are the body's primary source of energy. The fiber content is also decent, as it can help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. However, if you're watching your carb intake or managing diabetes, you may want to limit your portions or pair it with some low-carb sides.

Fiber and Sugar

As mentioned earlier, each tamale provides about 3 grams of fiber and 2 grams of sugar. The fiber comes mainly from the masa dough, which is made from ground corn, and can promote satiety and digestive health. The sugar content is relatively low, but it may still affect your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes or insulin resistance. If that's the case, you may want to choose sugar-free or low-sugar alternatives to tamales.

Vitamin and Mineral Content

One tamale contains various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients play important roles in maintaining immune function, vision, bone health, blood circulation, and electrolyte balance. However, keep in mind that the vitamin and mineral content may vary depending on the ingredients and the preparation method. For example, some tamales may contain more or less meat, vegetables, or seasoning, which can affect the amount and type of nutrients.

Sodium and Cholesterol

One tamale contains about 530 milligrams of sodium and 35 milligrams of cholesterol. The sodium content is relatively high, as it exceeds the daily limit recommended by most health authorities, which is around 2300 milligrams for adults. High sodium intake can increase the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease, especially if you're sensitive to salt or have a history of cardiovascular problems. The cholesterol content is moderate, but it may still matter if you're prone to high cholesterol levels or have a family history of heart disease.

Serving Size

One tamale is a reasonable serving size for most people, as it provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, and contains about one-third of the daily calorie needs for an average adult. However, keep in mind that the exact serving size may vary depending on your age, gender, weight, and activity level, as well as your overall dietary goals and preferences. If you're trying to lose weight or manage certain health conditions, you may want to consult a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to help you determine the most appropriate serving size and meal plan.

Preparation and Serving Suggestions

If you want to try making Picadillo con Papas Tamales at home, you can find various recipes and tutorials online or in cookbooks. It usually involves preparing the masa dough, cooking the filling, assembling the tamales, and steaming them until cooked through. It can take some time and effort to make tamales from scratch, but it can also be a fun and rewarding activity that you can share with family and friends. If you prefer to buy tamales from a store or a restaurant, make sure to choose a reputable and trustworthy source that uses fresh and wholesome ingredients and follows proper food safety guidelines. To serve the tamale, you can unwrap it from the husk or the banana leaf, and enjoy it hot or warm, with some salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side, if desired. You can also pair it with some rice, beans, or salad, to round out the meal and add some variety to your plate.

Storage Instructions

To store leftover tamales, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate them for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, if you want to keep them longer. To reheat the tamales, you can steam them again, or microwave them for a few minutes, until heated through. However, keep in mind that reheating may affect the texture and flavor of the tamales, and may also increase the risk of bacterial contamination, if not done properly. To minimize the risk, make sure to reheat the tamales to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C), and discard any that show signs of spoilage or mold.

Health Benefits

Picadillo Con Papas Tamales can offer several health benefits, when consumed as part of a balanced and varied diet, and accompanied by an active and healthy lifestyle. Some of these benefits may include:

• Protein: Each tamale provides about 13 grams of protein, which is an important nutrient that supports muscle growth and repair, immune function, and hormone synthesis.
• Vitamins and minerals: Tamales can provide various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases.
• Fiber: The masa dough in tamales can be a good source of fiber, which can help promote satiety, regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and support digestive health.
• Cultural and social value: Eating tamales can also have cultural and social significance, as it may reflect one's heritage, identity, or community. Sharing tamales with family and friends can also foster social connections and bonding.