How to Eat Enjoy Tamales
Some folks grew up eating tamales every holiday. Others are meeting their very first one right now. Either way,
Bienvenido’s.
Tamales are meant to be simple, comforting, and shared.
Here’s how to enjoy them the por•Ita way.
STEP 1: Heat gently
Tamales love steam — it keeps them soft and happy.
Best way (recommended):
Leave the tamal wrapped in its corn husk
Place in a steamer or pot with a little water
Steam for 15–20 minutes until hot all the way through
Quick way:
Wrap the tamal (still in the husk) in a damp paper towel
Microwave for 1–2 minutes, flipping halfway
Tip: If it feels dry, it needs more steam, not more heat.
STEP 2: Unwrap
(but don’t eat the husk)
The corn husk is there to protect the tamal — not to be eaten.
Peel it back, let the steam rise, and take a moment. This part matters.
STEP 3: Eat it your way
Fork or hands — both are correct.
Tamales are perfect on their own, but they also love good company:
salsa
crema
beans
rice
or just a quiet moment
There’s no wrong way here.
Just eat slowly enough to enjoy it.
One last thing…
Tamales aren’t fast food. They’re care food.
They carry time, tradition, and someone else’s hands. So when you eat one, you’re not just having a meal–you’re being welcomed.
Gracias por estar aquí.
Gracias por compartir la mesa.
🙏