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Mini Tamale Bites with Avocado Crema

Mini Tamale Bites with Avocado Crema

These Mini Tamale Bites with Avocado Crema deliver all the cozy flavor of tamales in a bite-size, party-ready format—tender masa, a savory filling, and a cool, zesty crema on top.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Tamale Bites
  • 1 cup masa harina
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth warm
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 3/4 cup cooked shredded chicken or shredded pork/beef, or black beans for vegetarian
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Oaxaca cheese
Avocado Crema
  • 1 ripe avocado pitted and peeled
  • 1/3 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic small
  • salt to taste
  • 2–3 tbsp water to thin crema as needed

Equipment

  • Mini Muffin Tin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Blender or Food Processor

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together masa harina, baking powder, salt, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  3. Add warm broth and melted butter. Stir until a smooth, thick batter forms (it should resemble thick hummus). If it feels dry, add 1 tablespoon broth at a time.
  4. Fold in shredded chicken and cheese until evenly distributed.
  5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of batter into each mini muffin cavity and gently press to level.
  6. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until set and lightly golden at the edges. Cool 5 minutes before removing.
  7. Make the avocado crema: blend avocado, sour cream (or crema), lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until drizzle-able.
  8. Serve warm tamale bites topped with a dollop or drizzle of avocado crema.

Notes

For extra heat, mix in 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or a spoonful of diced jalapeño. For vegetarian bites, swap shredded chicken for black beans (drained) and use vegetable broth.