SAN DIEGO — It’s a dish that is a beloved Mexican tradition that you’ll want to try this holiday season if you haven’t already.
Barrio Star in Bankers Hill showed CBS 8 the steps it takes to make one!
Originating from Mesoamerica centuries ago, tamales are a cherished Latin American dish and the heart of holiday traditions worldwide.
Barrio Star’s Head Chef Pedro Lugo showed us how to make them.
First, they mixed corn flour, then spread a layer of the masa dough onto the corn husk, added meats and wrapped it up.
After it's steamed to perfection, it turns out like a masterpiece.
At Barrio Star, they offer three kinds of tamales: pork, chicken and vegan. Lugo said you can’t forget the most important ingredient: love.
"We make the food with a lot of love. We make all the food like how we make it for family; my mother, sister daughter. We give it the best," said Lugo.
A feast for the whole family; Barrio Star’s General Manager says tamales symbolize unity and togetherness.
"Families get together and make tamales together. We create a sauce around it with different flavors. At Barrio Star, we have a health-conscious menu with fresh steamed kale, jasmine rice and Pico de Gallo," said Michael Simpson.
Tamales are served not just as a delicious treat, but as a representation of cultural heritage and warmth of the holiday spirit.
If you go to Barrio Star for New Years, they are also offering a free glass of sparkling wine.
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