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The Mexican celebration of Día de la Candelaria

Writer's picture: Chef Wendy GaleanaChef Wendy Galeana


Tamales play a significant role in the Candelaria Mexican Day Celebration, which takes place on February 2nd. The holiday marks the end of the Christmas season and is celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries. People gather with family and friends to enjoy feasting and sharing tamales, a traditional Mexican dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and spices. Tamales are often served with salsa, guacamole, and other Mexican condiments.


Making and eating tamales is an important part of the Candelaria celebration, as it brings families and communities together. It is a time for sharing, laughter, and good food. The preparation of tamales is a labor-intensive process, with each member of the family contributing their skills to the preparation. The tamales are then wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.

In addition to the tamale-making and eating, the Candelaria Mexican Day Celebration also involves religious processions, music, dance, and other festivities. It is an important cultural and religious event in Mexico, blending Catholic and indigenous traditions. Overall, the Candelaria Mexican Day Celebration with tamales is a vibrant and joyous celebration of family, community, and tradition.

But, what are tamales and how to cook them?


Mexican tamales are a traditional dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and spices. Here is a simple recipe for making Mexican tamales:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups of masa harina (corn dough)

  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon of salt

  • 1/2 cup of lard or vegetable shortening

  • 2 cups of chicken or beef broth

  • 2-3 cups of filling of your choice (shredded meat, cheese, vegetables, etc.)

  • Dried corn husks

Instructions:

  1. Soak the corn husks in warm water for at least 30 minutes to make them pliable.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt.

  3. In a separate bowl, beat the lard or shortening until fluffy and then gradually add it to the masa mixture, mixing well.

  4. Gradually add the chicken or beef broth to the masa mixture and continue to mix until a smooth dough is formed.

  5. Take a large spoonful of the masa dough and spread it evenly on a soaked corn husk, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.

  6. Add a spoonful of the filling of your choice down the center of the masa dough.

  7. Roll up the corn husk tightly, starting from one end and folding in the sides as you go.

  8. Repeat the process until all the dough and filling are used up.

  9. Arrange the tamales in a steamer basket or pot, cover with a lid, and steam for about 1 hour, or until the dough is cooked through.

  10. Once cooked, allow the tamales to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or any other Mexican condiment of your choice.

Enjoy your homemade tamales!





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