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Tamale with Paneer Filling Recipe

Tamale with Paneer Filling Recipe offered to Krishna on a wrap.

Hare Krishna Tamale with Paneer Filling is a flavorful and hearty dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This recipe combines a spiced paneer filling with a steamed corn dough, creating a unique fusion dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, preparing and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Corn Dough:

  • 2 cups masa harina (corn flour) (250g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup vegetable shortening or ghee (60g)
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water (360 ml)

For the Paneer Filling:

  • 1 cup paneer, crumbled (240g)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

For Assembly:

  • Corn husks, soaked in warm water until pliable

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn Dough: In a large bowl, mix masa harina, baking powder, and salt. Add vegetable shortening or ghee and mix until crumbly. Gradually add vegetable broth or water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  2. Prepare the Paneer Filling: In a pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add crumbled paneer, coriander powder, turmeric powder, hing, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the paneer is well coated with the spices. Set aside.
  3. Assemble the Tamales: Take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of corn dough in the center. Place a spoonful of the paneer filling in the middle. Fold the sides of the husk over the filling and fold the bottom up to enclose it. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
  4. Steam the Tamales: Arrange the tamales upright in a steamer. Steam over medium heat for 45-60 minutes until the dough is set and pulls away easily from the husk.
  5. Serve Hot: Serve the tamales hot with your favorite side dish.

Notes

  • Variation: Add finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to the paneer filling for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Store any leftover tamales in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

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