Tag: Diet and tamales

While a steamed tamale can range from 250 to 375 calories depending on its filling, frying one significantly increases its caloric value by adding substantial fat from the cooking oil. The exact number of calories in one fried tamale is not static and depends heavily on its size, filling, and the preparation method.

While the exact number varies widely, a single medium tamale typically contains between 200 and 350 calories, with the filling and preparation method being the biggest influencers. For those watching their intake, understanding the components that contribute to the final calorie count is key to enjoying this traditional dish without guilt.

According to USDA data, a single cheese tamal can offer up to 16 grams of protein, while a plain corn tamal provides a significantly lower amount. This variation is key to understanding if tamales are a good source of protein, as the filling plays a crucial role in the dish's overall nutritional profile.