There’s something irresistible about freshly made tamales filled with CA GROWN fruits and vegetables. Maybe it’s the aroma of masa steaming in a pot, or the way a family kitchen buzzes with laughter and conversation during a tamalada. Whatever it is, they are more than just food—they’re memory, tradition, and community wrapped up in a corn husk. 

But here’s the best part: with a little patience anyone, yes, – even you, can learn the art of making them. All you need is good ingredients and a whole lot of love. ❤️ 

The Tradition Behind the Tamale 

Tamales are the cornerstone of Mesoamerican cuisine and trace back thousands of years to the Aztecs, Incas, and Mayans, who made them for celebrations and ceremonies. Fast-forward to today, and the tradition is still alive—especially across California, where diverse communities have infused their own flavors and creativity into this ancient dish. 

Every region, and every family, does them a little differently. Some go for spicy, savory fillings while others lean toward sweet and fragrant. But they all share the same foundation: masa made with quality corn and a filling crafted with care. 

CA GROWN Ingredients Make a Difference 🌽 

Here in California, tamale season hits differently. That’s because so many of the ingredients that go into them —sweet potatoes, chiles, cheese, prunes, and even strawberries—are grown right here in the Golden State. 

A few standouts: 

1. California Prunes: Rich, sweet, and naturally high in antioxidants, they add depth and moisture to tamales like Ana Castro’s Sweet Tamales from California Prunes. 

2. California Sweet Potatoes: Try the Spiced Sweet Potato Tamales from Salt & Wind. These beauties bring a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that feels like comfort wrapped in a husk. 

3. Real California Cheese: Our dairy farms are famous for a reason. In Hola Jalapeño’s Cheese Tamales, the gooey, salty cheese filling meets fluffy masa—it’s melt-in-your-mouth magic. 

4. California Strawberries: Sweet and bold, they star in the Strawberry Tamales with Horchata Sauce, turning dessert into a showstopper. 

See what’s happening here? California ingredients don’t just build flavor—they tell a story about the land, the farmers, and the people who keep traditions alive. 

The Sweet, The Savory, and The Surprising 

One of the best parts of recipes like these is the endless variety. Sweet or savory, spicy or mellow—there’s no wrong answer. Check out these irresistible picks: 

Sweet Tamales You’ll Dream About 

• Sweet Tamales with Prunes from Ana Castro – Soft, tender masa meets caramelized prune filling. A cozy hug in edible form. 
• Sweet Lime Tamales from Hola Jalapeño – Tart and aromatic, these tamales redefine dessert. 
• Strawberry Tamales with Horchata Sauce from Hola Jalapeno – Dessert tamales that make everyone stop mid-bite.

Spiced Sweet Potato Tamales from Salt & Wind 

Good and good for you – sweet potatoes deserve their moment too. 

Savory Tamales for Every Gathering 

• Chile Poblano Tamales de Rajas con Queso from Salt & Wind – Smoky poblano chiles and melty cheese inside light, fluffy masa. 
• Spicy Black Bean and Cheese Tamales from This Mess Is Ours – Earthy, creamy, and bold—these pack a flavorful punch. 
• Spicy Cheese and Jalapeno Tamales from Hola Jalapeno  – Fiery charred jalapeño chile and melted cheese come together in a fluffy masa dough. 

Apple-Braised Beef Tamales from Hola Jalapeno

Savory tamales filled with tender beef that is slowly roasted with sweet apples, onions, and guajillo chiles. 

Thinking About Hosting a Tamalada? 

You should! It’s not just about making tamales—it’s about making memories. A tamalada is a cooking party where everyone gets a task: spreading masa, adding fillings, folding husks, tying, laughing, and usually eating way too much along the way. 

Want to host your own? Check out Salt & Wind’s guide on How To Host a Tamalada. 

Pro tips for success: 

1. Prep your fillings and masa the day before. 
2. Invite people who like to get their hands dirty. 
3. Steam them in batches so everyone gets that first-bite moment together. 
4. Serve some killer sides.
5. Don’t forget the playlist. Every good tamalada has a rhythm. 🎶 

Why Tamales Are A Big Deal

In a world that’s obsessed with speed and convenience, this type of recipe reminds us to slow down. It’s about connection—between people, generations, and food. They ask for your time, but they give something so much richer in return. 

Maybe that’s why they’ve stood the test of time. They are proof that the best things in life are meant to be shared. 

So gather your friends, roll up your sleeves, and dive in. Whether you’re making spicy black bean, sweet strawberry, or classic cheese, each recipe carries a piece of California’s story—warm, diverse, and unforgettable. 

Curious how to reheat leftover tamales? It’s super easy, just check out Hola Jalapeno’s post, 8 Easy Ways to Reheat Tamales.