Tag: Cheese tamale

According to the USDA, a medium pork tamale has about 285 calories. This figure offers a starting point, but the answer to how many calories are in one Mexican tamale varies considerably depending on its specific ingredients, portion size, and preparation method.

The average calorie count for a standard-sized cheese and jalapeño tamale is around 275–375 calories, with a large cheese tamale typically falling at the higher end of this range. Several factors, such as the amount of masa, the type and quantity of cheese, and the use of lard, can significantly impact the final caloric total. Understanding these variables is key to enjoying this flavorful Mexican dish as part of a balanced diet.

A single pork tamale from a restaurant can contain around 250 calories, but this number is not set in stone and can fluctuate significantly. The exact calorie count for a tamale depends heavily on its size, the type of filling used (e.g., pork, chicken, cheese, or vegetables), and the fat content in the masa dough, which is often made with lard.