BLACK BEAN TAMALE PIE

Black Bean Tamale Pie is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the rich, hearty taste of black beans with a layer of fluffy, golden cornbread. This casserole-style dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a warm, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. The black beans are simmered with spices, vegetables, and a hint of tomato, creating a robust filling that’s both nutritious and delicious. Topped with a light and slightly sweet cornbread crust, this tamale pie offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s a great vegetarian option that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Make the filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the pepper is tender.
3. Add the beans and spices: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), corn, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Transfer the filling to the prepared baking dish.
4. Prepare the cornbread topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Assemble the tamale pie: Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the black bean filling in the baking dish, spreading it out with a spatula to cover the filling completely.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Serve: Let the Black Bean Tamale Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy warm, possibly with a dollop of sour cream, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Black Bean Tamale Pie is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory beans and vegetables with a sweet, tender cornbread topping makes it a satisfying dish that everyone will love.