We’ve all heard the term hot tamale but what are they, and how can they improve your health? Though tamales are considered a staple is modern Hispanic food, especially in Mexico, their roots date bag to the ancient Mayan civilization, who frequently prepared them for feasts during the Preclassic period.
Though tamale recipes can vary depending on the chef’s taste, traditionally they are filled with some kind of meat, cheese, vegetables, and chili peppers. Masa corn is steamed or boiled in a leaf wrapper, and then filled with these delicious ingredients. They can be served as a dish on their own, or as side to other traditional Hispanic dishes such as arroz con pollo.
Though tamales make for different and yummy dinner ideas, they also provide several health benefits. Here are the top three reasons you should eat more of this super food.
Full of macronutrients
Tamales are full of complex carbohydrates, which provide the fuel and energy your body needs to stay active. They are also low in fat and high in fiber, which helps to promote healthy bowel movements and reduce cholesterol levels. Additionally, are rich in lean proteins, which your body needs to build muscle and repair cells.
Excellent source of minerals
Aside from being delicious, tamales are rich in iron and phosphorous. Iron helps your body to produce adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, which your body uses as an energy source. Phosphorous is used repair, grow, and even maintain your body’s tissues and cells, which make them essential your body’s daily functions.
Rich in vitamins
These tasty treats are also brimming with essential vitamins, such as vitamin B 3, which is needed to improve blood circulation, and produce hormones. Vitamin B 6 is also found in abundance in this classic dish, and is used by your body to make neurotransmitters, which are the chemicals used by your brain cells to communicate with one another. Vitamin B 6 promotes healthy brain development and neurons.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to taste bad or become a chore. By cooking traditional Mexican cuisine, you can stimulate your taste buds as well as give your body the nourishment it needs. Read more blogs like this.