Sustainable Authentic Tamales Enrich Our Environment.

Tamales might be called “pillars” of Mexican Cuisine and culture. They have continued through the many centuries, adapting with the changes in the environment and different societies. These “small steamed mounds” of flavorful masa with savory or sweet fillings have snuggly niched into Mexican culture, becoming offerings of thankfulness to the gods. Authentic tamales have become showcases of strength and sustainability of Mexican tradition, establishing a solid foundation that is rich in flavors and culture. The eco-friendly ingredients and flavors of authentic tamales have enriched our environment and gotten them attention across international borders.  

Tamales and Corn

Corn is the ancient food that carried Mesoamerican civilization and societies from age to age. It all began with a “patch” of wild grass called Teosinte.  Mesoamericans studied the tiny kernels in the grass, replanted, cultivated and nourished the changing kernels. Eventually these early farmers pioneered the valuable resource of Maize. Corn was grounded down and became a valuable survival food, which was the inception of tamales. Hunger was subdued and a deep appreciation for corn blossomed. Tamales were a feasible and convenient food as the early civilizations hunted and traveled. Soon tamales became more than a need, they were celebrated. History records that religious and cultural ties were established with the use of tamales. 

Tamales and Nutrition

With the discovery of Nixtamalization, corn flour was perfected and this improved the flavor and texture of tamales. This ancient practice also provided access to nutrients that are otherwise trapped in the kernel! Nixtamalization releases the source of Vitamin B3 which helps the body convert food into energy and  maintain healthy skin, digestive and nervous systems. Tamales were more valuable than ever.

Eco Friendly Mesoamericans

Early Mesoamerican conservationists made use of the corn husks as tools for survival. Corn husks were used to wrap the masa, hence the name, tamale. This word traces back to the ancient word “tamalii” which means wrapped. Corn husks were also used to make baskets or fuel for fire. These were all useful biodegradable tools that eventually went right back into the earth.

Fillings For Tamales

Since the inception of tamales, Mesoamericans were creative with meat and vegetable mixtures for tamale fillings. From nutritious frog meat to nutritionally valuable squash flowers, fillings for tamales grew in creativity. Migration and conquest added new peoples, new traditions and new flavorful fillings that have their own value and eco-friendliness. It is safe to say that overall, savory and sweet fillings  have a good source of nutrients and are culturally rich in Mexican spices, flavors and tradition. As time and societies have moved along, tamales have moved right along with the changes, adapting as needed but keeping their core values: authentic delicious and nutritious food, traditional meals that tie in family and culture.

Tamales and Technology

Food is tied to environments, cultures and societies. Technology provides the comfort and convenience needed and desired for good living. It has brought perishable authentic tamales to the shipping table. Today we have shipping products that are made not to harm the environment, but sturdy enough to package and ship tamales to your front door. Packaged correctly, tamales can safely travel farther, safer and faster. These technological conveniences have spread the delicious tamale tradition across the United States and around the world. Ordering tamales is safe and easy, and discarding the packaging can be done through recycling. Shopping and ordering from home, with just a few clicks, makes room for true riches, faith, family, friends and well deserved time to rest. 

Tamales have remained an anchor in Mexican culture, contributing their sweet and spicy aromas and leaving a trail of tradition wherever they’ve migrated to. Delicious tamales have enriched cultures and environments.