Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales

Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales Recipe - Vegetarian Food from China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales are a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the traditional Mexican tamale with the aromatic Chinese 5 spice powder. These tamales are filled with crumbled tofu, bell peppers, and a blend of spices that create a unique and satisfying flavor profile.

History

The fusion of Chinese and Mexican flavors in Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales is a modern twist on the traditional tamale recipe. The use of Chinese 5 spice powder adds a depth of flavor that complements the tofu and vegetables in the filling. This recipe is a creative and delicious way to enjoy tamales with a unique twist.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) crumbled tofu
2 tsp Chinese 5 spice powder
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
2 tbsp dried onion
0.25 cup chopped bell pepper
4 tsp prepared mustard
1 tbsp soy sauce

How to prepare

1. Combine the filling ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2. Spread 1.5 tbsp of puree on each corn husk "boat."
3. Cook for 20 minutes, or until the husks have softened.
4. Season to taste with sea salt and lime juice.
5. Serve!

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or corn to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Use different spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder to customize the flavor of the tamales.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the corn husks in warm water before assembling the tamales to make them pliable and easy to work with.

- Use a steamer to cook the tamales for the best results, as this will ensure that they are cooked evenly and thoroughly.

- Season the filling to taste with salt and lime juice before serving to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales with a side of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming is the best cooking technique for tamales, as it ensures that they are cooked evenly and thoroughly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground meat or beans instead of tofu for a different protein option.

- Substitute Chinese 5 spice powder with a blend of your favorite spices for a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to steam and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the tamales with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales with a side of steamed rice and a crisp green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or steamer until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.

Summary

Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales are a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in protein and vitamins. They are a great option for a vegetarian meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

Summary

Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales are a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of Chinese and Mexican cuisine. With a flavorful tofu filling and aromatic spices, these tamales are a unique and satisfying meal option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales. The aroma of the spices, the warmth of the masa, and the tender filling of the tamales takes me back to the day I learned how to make them.

I was visiting a small village in the mountains of China, where I met a wise old woman named Mei Ling. She was known throughout the village for her delicious cooking and her knowledge of the traditional recipes passed down through generations. I was fascinated by her culinary skills and begged her to teach me one of her most prized recipes.

Mei Ling smiled kindly and invited me into her humble kitchen. She showed me how to prepare the masa, a mixture of cornmeal, lard, and broth, seasoned with a blend of five spices that she called Buddhist 5 Spice. The aroma of the spices filled the room, and I knew this recipe was something truly special.

As we worked together, Mei Ling shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that the Buddhist 5 Spice blend was created by monks in the mountains, who believed that the combination of spices brought balance and harmony to the body and soul. The tamales were not only delicious but also a symbol of unity and peace.

I listened intently as Mei Ling guided me through each step of the recipe. She showed me how to fill the masa with a mixture of finely diced vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. The filling was then wrapped in corn husks and steamed until tender.

As the tamales cooked, Mei Ling told me about her own grandmother, who had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl. She spoke with love and reverence for the traditions passed down through her family, and I felt honored to be a part of this culinary lineage.

Finally, the tamales were ready, and Mei Ling presented them to me with a smile. I took a bite and was transported by the flavors of the spices, the richness of the masa, and the savory filling. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I thanked Mei Ling profusely for sharing her recipe with me and promised to carry on the tradition in my own kitchen. She hugged me tightly and whispered a blessing for my journey ahead.

As I left the village and returned home, I couldn't wait to recreate the Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales for my family. I gathered the ingredients, mixed the masa, and filled the tamales with care, remembering Mei Ling's gentle guidance and the spirit of unity and peace that infused the recipe.

When I served the tamales to my family, they were met with delight and admiration. The flavors were a symphony of spices, the texture was perfect, and the love and tradition that went into the recipe shone through in every bite.

Since that day in the mountains of China, Buddhist 5 Spice Tamales have become a staple in my family's kitchen. I have passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, along with the story of Mei Ling and the monks who created the blend of spices so many years ago.

Every time I make these tamales, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish the body and soul, and to carry on the traditions of those who came before us. The recipe may have come from Mei Ling, but the spirit of unity and peace that it embodies is something that will always be a part of me.

And so, as I sit here savoring a warm, savory Buddhist 5 Spice Tamale, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that brought me to this moment, for the wise old woman who shared her recipe with me, and for the love and connection that food can bring to our lives.