Tag: Traditional tamales

According to the USDA, a medium pork tamale typically contains around 285 calories. However, asking "how many calories does a hot tamale have?" reveals an important distinction, as the term can refer to both a spicy, chewy candy and a traditional Mexican dish.

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.

While traditional savory tamales typically contain no dairy products, modern and sweet variations may include milk or butter. This culinary flexibility can blur the lines, especially for those navigating dietary restrictions or simply curious about the classic recipe.