The traditions and origins of tamales:
By: Richard S. Calhoun
Published: December 7th, 2016
- Tamales are a cultural dish that originated in Mexico around 1,200 BC. Tamales are typically a meat filling surrounded by dough and wrapped in a cornhusk or banana leaf. Although the tamale was originated in Mexico, it is now a very global thing. Almost every country has a tamale of their own that they fill with different things. Countries like El Salvador and Honduras make their tamales sweet, with ingredients like cinnamon and fruits. Other countries like Costa Rica are filled with chicken, pork, or beef.
- I’ve never tasted tamales before but I think that they must be a great cultural experience. Tamales originated in one place but to have been spread around the world like that is quite amazing. Different cultures all around the world have adapted this one dish and made it their own. I think that this is quite amazing that it could spread around like this and even adapt a different name. I also think that you can use tamales as an example of cultural diffusion.
- A major part of mexico’s culture is its food. People from various different countries especially the United States have adapted to their type of foods. Although it is everywhere we cannot forget that it originated in Mexico and will be an important part of their culture. Tamales are hard work to make and are often made on holidays. Families in Mexico often give out roles just to make them so it is more of a big deal than just good food. Tamales can be apart of family traditions.