Tamale Soup Recipe

1 pound ground beef
1 chopped onion
1 chopped green pepper
2 tablespoons oil
1 15-ounce can corn, drained
2 beef bouillon cubes
2 cups water
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 15-ounce can pinto beans, drained
10 fresh tamales, frozen (see “Tips”)
Grated cheese

Brown beef with onion and pepper in oil in a large skillet. Drain off grease. Add corn and bouillon that has been dissolved in water. Add other ingredients, except tamales and cheese. Cook on low heat until flavors are blended. Thirty minutes before serving, cut the frozen tamales into one-inch pieces and add to soup. If tamales are not frozen, they will fall apart after a short time. Top servings with cheese and serve with tortilla chips.

Tips From Our Test Kitchen: If fresh tamales are not available, use canned. Drain, remove paper, and slice into one-inch pieces. Add at last minute to soup to heat through. Makes 6 to 8 bowls.