This casserole has all the basics of tamales but is much easier to prepare. By varying the accompaniments, this dish can serve as a hearty dinner or a light luncheon. The combination of corn and beans is a good for vegetarians as it balances the protein to make them complete.

Ingredients

For the Pie:

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 small bell pepper, stem and seeds removed, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 6 green New Mexican chiles, roasted, peeled, stems and seeds removed, chopped

• 1 14-oz. can pinto beans, drained

• 1 cup whole kernel corn

• 1 cup tomato sauce or commercial salsa

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/3 cup chopped black olives

• Salt to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup corn meal

• 2 eggs separated

• ½½ teaspoon salt

• 3 jalapeño chiles, stems and seeds removed, chopped

• ½ cup grated Monterey Jack cheese

• ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and lightly grease a large loaf pan or small baking dish.

In a heavy saucepan, heat the oil until hot. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and saute until the onions are soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chili powder.

Add the green chile, beans, corn, tomato sauce, and cumin and mix well. Simmer the filling until hot and thickened.

Bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil and gradually add the corn meal while stirring constantly. Reduce the heat and cook until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the egg yolks and jalapeños. Allow to cool.

Whip the egg whites until stiff and gently fold them into the corn meal mixture.

Spread ½ of the batter over the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Add the bean mixture and top with the remaining batter. Cover and bake for 35 minutes or until the batter is firm. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the cheese over the top and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and browned.

Allow to sit for a few minutes before cutting and serving.