Too Many Tamales

Is there such a thing?

Making Tamales is a family tradition and community ritual among Mexican, Mexican-American people that is also shared by a diverse mixture of Latin American cultures. The tradition of making tamales with extended families especially during the Christmas holidays can help develop a sense of unity and community, and breaks down borders and barriers between people and cultures.

A gathering of families to make tamales during the holidays is always a welcome opportunity to be together for conversation and food. And sitting together to read as a family is a good way to start the evening.

Community Tamalada

Join us for a heartwarming gathering filled with culture, tradition, and community! Our annual Community Tamalada is the perfect time to come together, make tamales, and celebrate the holiday season with friends and family.
What to Expect:
Hands-on Tamale Making: Learn from experienced tamaleras as we make tamales together.

Traditional Music & Refreshments: Enjoy seasonal cultural music and sample some champurrado, a traditional Mexican drink that goes perfect with tamales.

Families welcome.

When: Sunday, December 22, 2024
Where: TBD
Cost: $10 per family (3 family members max) - includes copy of the book Too Many Tamales. If you are not purchasing the book, the fee includes one dozen tamales. You may also purchase individual tamales two dollars ($2) each.

Too Many Tamales | El Libro

We have limited copies of Too Many Tamales each in both English and Spanish for sale at $10 each. To reserve a copy and pre-pay, scan either of the QR codes to the right and we will set one aside for you in time for the holidays.
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If you can't make it to the Community Tamalada, below are two videos: one is a bilingual recording by Marta V. Martínez, RILA's Executive Director, that you can listen to if you do not have a copy of the book. The other is a video of Chef Carmen, from Casa Azúl Taquería in Providence, RI, going through the steps on how to make your own tamales, after you finish reading the book.

Too Many Tamales Read-Along

Here is a Read-Along video, read in Spanish by RILA's Executive Director, Marta V. Martinez. To order a copy of the book in Spanish and/or English, see below above.

Tamales Recipe

Learn how to make your own tamales from Chef Carmen of Casa Azul Taquería in Providence. Download a copy of the recipe in advance so you can purchase ingredients as you follow along.
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Champurrado is a traditional Christmas drink that goes well with tamales. It can also keep you warm on a cold Winter night. It sticks to your belly and warms you up early in the morning before you go out to work or school.

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