What are Tamales and How Do You Eat Them?

Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made from masa, which is a dough made from corn. The masa is typically mixed with fat, such as lard or vegetable shortening, and seasoned with spices and seasonings. It is then spread on a corn husk and filled with various ingredients before being wrapped and steamed.

Tamales are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be enjoyed as a main dish, a side dish, or even as a dessert. In Mexican cuisine, tamales are often served during holidays and special occasions, such as Christmas or Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

History of Tamales

Tamales have a rich history in Mexican cuisine and have been enjoyed for centuries. They were originally developed by the indigenous people of Mesoamerica, long before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. Mesoamerican cultures such as the Aztecs and Mayans relied heavily on maize (corn) as a staple food, and tamales were a way to make use of this abundant resource.

In ancient times, tamales were often used as portable food for hunters, travelers, and soldiers. The masa dough was easily portable and could be filled with various ingredients to provide a nutritious and filling meal. Tamales were also often used in religious ceremonies and celebrations, where they were offered to the gods as sacred food.

Over time, the tradition of making tamales spread throughout Mexico and became an integral part of Mexican cuisine. Each region of Mexico developed its unique styles and flavors of tamales, using local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Today, tamales are still a beloved dish in Mexico, enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. They are also widely popular in Mexican-American communities and have gained recognition and appreciation around the world.

Different types of Tamales

One popular type of tamale is the chicken tamale. These tamales are filled with cooked chicken, along with a savory sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and spices. The chicken tamale is a classic favorite and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Another delicious variety is the pork tamale. These tamales are filled with seasoned pork that has been slow-cooked until tender. The pork is typically marinated in a flavorful sauce and then added to the masa before being wrapped and steamed. The result is a tender and juicy tamale that is bursting with flavor.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, there are cheese and jalapeno tamales. These tamales are filled with a combination of cheese and diced jalapenos, giving them a spicy kick. The cheese melts deliciously inside the tamale, creating a gooey, cheesy filling that is perfect for spice lovers.

Other popular types of tamales include beef tamales, sweet tamales filled with ingredients like chocolate or fruit, and even dessert tamales like pineapple or coconut. With so many different options to choose from, there is a tamale to suit every taste.

Tamales Recipe

If you've never had tamales before, it can be a bit intimidating to know where to start. But fear not! Tamales are quite simple to make and delicious to eat. A few pointers for beginners are as follows:

1. Gather your ingredients: To make tamales, you'll need masa harina (corn flour), which can be found in most grocery stores. You'll also need various fillings, such as cooked meat, cheese, or vegetables. Don't forget to gather your spices and seasonings too!

2. Prepare the masa: Mix the masa harina with water or broth, along with some fat like lard or vegetable shortening. This will create a dough-like consistency that can be easily spread on the corn husks.

3. Spread the masa: Take a rehydrated corn husk and spread a thin layer of masa on it. Leave some space at the top and bottom for folding.

4. Add the filling: Place your desired filling in the center of the masa, avoiding overstuffing. This will ensure that the tamale cooks evenly.

5. Fold and steam: Fold the sides of the corn husk over the filling, creating a neat package. Place the tamales in a steamer and cook for about one hour, or until the masa is firm and the filling is heated through.

6. Enjoy: Once cooked, unwrap the tamales and serve them with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Don't forget to savor the delicious flavors and textures that tamales have to offer!

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt doesn't turn out exactly as you hoped. With a little bit of patience and experimentation, you'll soon be enjoying homemade tamales that are sure to impress your friends and family.

How to Eat Tamales

Eating tamales can be a delightful experience, but there's a bit of a technique to it. 

Eating it at Don Tortaco sounds like a fantastic idea!

Here's how you might enjoy them at the restaurant:

1. Ordering: Start by perusing the menu at Don Tortaco and look for the tamales section. You'll likely find various options, such as traditional pork tamales, chicken tamales, or even vegetarian tamales filled with cheese and veggies. Choose your favorite or mix and match to try a variety.

2. Unwrapping: Carefully unwrap the corn husks from your tamales, revealing the steaming masa and flavorful filling inside. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and care that went into making them.

3. Accompaniments: Don Tortaco may offer a variety of accompaniments for your tamales, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Feel free to add these to your tamales to enhance the flavors according to your taste preferences.

4. Enjoying: Pick up a tamale with your hands or use a fork and knife if you prefer. Take a bite and let the savory flavors of the masa and filling dance on your taste buds. Don't forget to savor each mouthful and appreciate the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.

5. Gratitude: As you finish your meal, take a moment to express your gratitude to the staff at Don Tortaco for their hospitality and delicious food. Saying "gracias" is a great method to express your gratitude.

Tamales can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal. They pair well with rice, beans, or a side salad. Whether you're eating tamales at a restaurant or making them at home, the experience is always delightful.

Enjoy your tamales at Don Tortaco, and savor every moment of this delightful culinary experience!