Tamale Pie

This recipe can be made with items from the cupboard.  It is a good, warming and filling recipe.  I used some of the fresh ground corn (instead of the yellow cornmeal) we had collected from Lattin Farms last month.  It really gave it a great flavor!

Tamale Pie

1 pound ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped green peppers
2 8-oz cans tomato sauce
1 12-oz can whole kernel corn (drained)
1/2 cup sliced and pitted olives
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2-3 teaspoons chili powder
dash of pepper

6 oz cheddar cheese, grated

Topper:
3/4 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups water
1 tablespoon butter

cook meat, onion and green pepper in a large skillet until meat is lightly browned and vegetables are tender.  Stir in tomato sauce, corn, olives, garlic, sugar, salt, chili powder and pepper.  simmer 20-25 minutes or until thick.  Add the cheese and stir until melted.  Pour into 1 1/2 quart  casserole dish (or 9 inch square pan).

Make cornmeal topper:  stir cornmeal and salt into cold water.  cook and stir until thick.  add butter, mix well and spoon over the hot meat mixture.

Bake 375 for about 40 minutes
6 servings