Tamales and Tradition

OMG you guys!! Today was AMAZING. I finally got to learn how to make tamales with Abuela Rosa and let me tell you - this woman is a MAGICIAN in the kitchen. Her hands just move like they have their own memory, spreading masa perfectly while telling me stories about Christmas when Mom was little.

Tamales and Tradition

The whole kitchen smells like home and comfort and everything good in the world. Abuela Rosa kept laughing at me because I was taking forever to spread the masa (“Mija, it doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to taste good!”) but she was so patient with me. She told me the secret ingredient is love but honestly I think it’s the ridiculous amount of lard she uses!! No wonder these taste like heaven.

I can’t wait to do this with my own kids someday (wayyyy in the future obviously lol). There’s something so special about learning these recipes that have been passed down forever. Plus now I can actually contribute something to Christmas dinner instead of just eating everything!! Win-win!! 🎄