Steaming pots and the aroma of corn masa signal tamale season in Houston, a cherished tradition in the city's diverse food scene. In the latest episode of "Eat Like a Local," chef Chris Shepherd explores Houston's tamale offerings, visiting homes and restaurants to experience the blend of flavor and heritage. Chef Luis Espinoza welcomed Shepherd to his home in Katy for a tamalada, a festive gathering to make tamales with family and friends, as reported by Click2Houston.
Across town, La Guadalupana stands out as Shepherd's go-to for tamales year-round. The Mexican tamales, based on chef Roberto Diaz's mother's recipe, offer locals a taste of home. Meanwhile, at El Bolillo Bakery, Shepherd indulges in a selection of rajas, spicy pork, and habanero tamales, complemented by a generous assortment of Mexican sweets.
From Guatemala Restaurant's rice and potato tamales to the Colombian Tamal Tolimense at Mi Pueblito, Shepherd's quest for unique flavors reflects Houston's rich cultural tapestry. Café Piquet's Cuban tamales introduce yet another variation, with pork mixed directly into the masa. Shepherd's tamale tour culminates in a visit to Tamales Doña Tere, where the sweet tamales, including one containing an entire snack cake, underscore the culinary creativity thriving in southwest Houston.
Amid the holiday rush, Houstonians searching for their tamale fix have abundant options detailed in a Houston Press article. Venues like Alamo Tamales offer classics such as spicy pork and unique varieties like elote and jalapeño-queso. Arnaldo Richards' Picos Restaurant complements its year-round Oaxaquenos with a dedicated holiday tamale stand. Other local favorites include Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen, where patrons can not only order tamales for their festivities but also learn how to make them, and URBE, which serves a range of tamales, from brisket to mushrooms and chicken in green sauce.
For those who desire a touch of homemade authenticity in every bite, local families like Espinoza's, open their homes during this time to keep the tradition of tamaladas alive.
