Part 1/9:
The Delicious Tradition of Tamales During Christmas
Christmas in Southern California is synonymous with a festive culinary tradition—tamales—but the history behind this Mesoamerican delicacy is as rich as its flavors. Tamales are not just a treat; they reflect centuries of culture, history, and adaptation across Mexico and into the United States.
A Brief Historical Anecdote
The significance of tamales goes back to the early 1900s during the Mexican Revolution. A notable figure, revolutionary Pascual Orozco, humorously stripped federal troops of their uniforms and sent them back to President Diaz with a cheeky note saying, "Here are the wrappers. Send me more tamales." This playful incident highlights tamales not just as a food but as an emblem of cultural pride and resilience.