If you're looking for a tasty and filling meal, look no further than a pork tamale. Weighing in at 142.0 G, one whole pork tamale contains approximately 247 calories. But this delicious dish doesn't just taste great – it's also packed with essential nutrients that your body needs. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of pork tamales and how you can make them at home.

In addition to its calorie content, a pork tamale is also a good source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. One pork tamale contains approximately 20 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, and 16 grams of fat. It also provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin B-6. All of these nutrients are important for maintaining a healthy body and mind.

If you're looking for an easy and satisfying meal that will keep you full and energized throughout the day, a pork tamale is a great option. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a good source of essential nutrients that your body needs to function at its best.

Calories in Pork Tamales

As we mentioned earlier, one whole pork tamale contains approximately 247 calories. This number may vary depending on the size of the tamale and the specific ingredients used in the recipe. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, you may want to limit your portion size or opt for a lower-calorie alternative. However, keep in mind that a pork tamale is also a good source of protein and other essential nutrients, so it can be a healthy choice in moderation.

Nutrition Facts of Pork Tamale

In addition to its calorie content, a pork tamale is a good source of several essential nutrients. Here are some of the key nutrition facts for one whole pork tamale:

• calories: 247
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 342mg
• Iron: 18% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 10% of the DV
• Vitamin C: 6% of the DV
• Vitamin B-6: 20% of the DV

Fat Content in Pork Tamale

One whole pork tamale contains approximately 16 grams of fat. While this may seem high, it's important to remember that not all fats are bad for you. In fact, your body needs some fat to function properly. The fat in a pork tamale comes from a variety of sources, including the pork filling, corn masa dough, and any additional toppings or sauces you may use. To reduce the fat content of your pork tamale, you can try using leaner cuts of pork, reducing the amount of cheese or sour cream in your toppings, or opting for a smaller portion size.

Carbohydrates in Pork Tamale

One whole pork tamale contains approximately 28 grams of carbohydrates. This number may vary depending on the specific ingredients used in the recipe. The majority of the carbohydrates in a pork tamale come from the corn masa dough used to make the tamale. This is a complex carbohydrate that provides your body with energy for sustained periods of time. However, if you're watching your carbohydrate intake, you may want to limit your portion size or opt for a lower-carbohydrate alternative.

Protein Content in Pork Tamales

One whole pork tamale contains approximately 20 grams of protein. Protein is an essential nutrient that your body needs to build and repair tissues, produce enzymes and hormones, and carry out a variety of other functions. The protein in a pork tamale comes primarily from the pork filling, but the corn masa dough and any additional toppings or sauces you use may also contribute some protein. If you're looking to increase your protein intake, a pork tamale can be a great option.

Vitamins and Minerals in Pork Tamale

A pork tamale is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function effectively. Some of the key nutrients found in pork tamales include:

• Iron: One pork tamale provides approximately 18% of the Daily Value for iron, which is important for producing red blood cells and transporting oxygen throughout your body.
• Calcium: One pork tamale provides approximately 10% of the Daily Value for calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Vitamin C: One pork tamale provides approximately 6% of the Daily Value for vitamin C, which is important for supporting a healthy immune system and promoting the absorption of iron.
• Vitamin B-6: One pork tamale provides approximately 20% of the Daily Value for vitamin B-6, which is important for brain development and function, as well as the production of red blood cells and neurotransmitters.

Benefits of Eating Pork Tamale

There are several benefits to eating pork tamales. Here are just a few:

• Provides a good source of essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, iron, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin B-6.
• Can be a filling and satisfying meal that provides sustained energy throughout the day.
• Can be a convenient and portable food that you can take with you on-the-go.
• Can be customized to suit your tastes and preferences by using different fillings, toppings, and sauces.

How to Make Pork Tamale at Home?

Making pork tamales at home is easier than you might think. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

1. Start by preparing the pork filling. Cook a 1-lb. pork roast in a slow cooker with 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 diced onion, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tsp. cumin, 1 tsp. chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
2. While the pork is cooking, prepare the corn masa dough. Combine 2 cups of masa harina with 2 cups of warm water, 1 tsp. salt, and 1/2 cup of melted lard or vegetable shortening. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Once the pork is cooked, shred it with two forks and mix in 1/2 cup of salsa or other desired toppings.
4. To assemble the tamales, spread a spoonful of the corn masa dough onto a corn husk. Add a spoonful of the pork filling on top of the masa dough, then roll up the tamale and tie the ends with a piece of kitchen twine.
5. Place the tamales in a steamer basket and steam for 45-60 minutes, or until the masa dough is cooked through and the tamales are heated through.

Pork Tamale vs Beef Tamale

While both pork tamales and beef tamales are delicious, there are some key differences between the two. Pork tamales are generally considered to be milder in flavor than beef tamales, and they may be a better choice for people who are sensitive to spicy foods. Pork tamales are also generally higher in fat content than beef tamales, but they are also a good source of essential nutrients. Ultimately, the choice between pork tamales and beef tamales will come down to personal preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about pork tamales:

• What are tamales made of? Tamales are made of corn masa dough and a variety of fillings, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, or beans.
• How are tamales cooked? Tamales are traditionally steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf wrapper.
• Are tamales healthy? Tamales can be a healthy choice when made with nutritious ingredients and eaten in moderation. However, they can also be high in calories, fat, and sodium, depending on the specific recipe.
• How long do tamales last? Tamales can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for up to six months.
• What are some common variations of pork tamales? Some popular variations of pork tamales include green chili pork tamales, pineapple pork tamales, and red chili pork tamales.