Reviving Tamale Pie: A Classic Recipe with a Twist | 1948 Inspired

Tamale Pie, a nostalgic dish from 1948, combines the flavors of tamales with a comforting casserole twist. This revamped recipe adds a modern touch while honoring its historic roots. Discover how raisins elevate the flavors and textures, making this dish a unique addition to your dinner table.

Ingredients for Reviving Tamale Pie

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

How to Make Reviving Tamale Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, raisins, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld together. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the prepared beef and bean mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
2. Spoon the cornbread topping over the filling, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover completely.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot tamale pie. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.

About the Main Ingredients

Cornbread Topping

The cornbread topping adds a delicious contrast to the savory filling. It’s made with cornmeal, flour, baking powder, milk, and cheese, giving it a slightly sweet and cheesy flavor that complements the hearty filling.

Filling

The filling is a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, kidney beans, and spices. Raisins are a unique addition that adds a touch of sweetness and texture, balancing the flavors of the dish. The spices like chili powder and cumin give it a warming, southwestern-inspired flavor profile.

Reviving Tamale Pie brings together the nostalgia of a classic dish with modern twists like raisins for added depth of flavor. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Serve it with a side of salad or Mexican-inspired toppings like sour cream and avocado slices. Enjoy this revamped recipe that honors tradition while embracing innovation!