Tamale Bake Texas (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Filling

01 - 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
06 - 425 g diced tomatoes with green chilies
07 - 425 g black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 medium onion, chopped
09 - 450 g ground beef

→ Cornmeal Topping

10 - 80 g sliced black olives (optional)
11 - 115 g shredded cheddar cheese
12 - 1 large egg
13 - 240 ml milk
14 - 165 g cornmeal

→ Garnish

15 - 15 g chopped fresh cilantro

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Wait about 10 minutes after baking. Pop on the cilantro before you dig in.
02 - Slide the baking dish into your oven and let it go for 30 to 35 minutes. Take it out when the top looks golden and firm.
03 - Toss on the shredded cheddar and olives to cover the pie.
04 - Pour the rest of your cornmeal mix on top of the beef stuff. Spread it around so it covers everything.
05 - Lightly grease your pan, then pour in half the cornmeal mix to cover the bottom.
06 - Beat together the cornmeal with the milk and egg in a bowl until there aren’t lumps.
07 - Add black beans, those tomatoes with chilies, and your spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about five minutes.
08 - Put the ground beef and onion into a hot pan and cook until the meat's browned up and the onion is nice and soft. Tip out the extra fat when you’re done.
09 - Kick on your oven and set it to 175°C.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Want it meat-free? Try swapping the beef for bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms cooked till soft.
02 - Add jalapeños if you like more heat, or top each serving with some sour cream for a creamy finish.