Tamales, Comadres and the Meaning of Civilization: Secrets, Recipes, History, Anecdotes, and a Lot of Fun

This culinary history unwraps the extensive culture surrounding the tamale, bringing together writers, artists, journalists, and Texas’ regional leaders to honor this traditional Latin American dish. It is filled with family stories, recipes, and artwork, and also celebrates tamaladas—the large family gatherings where women prepare the tamales for the Christmas festivities. Humorous and colorful, this collection reveals the importance of community and good food.

Ellen Riojas Clark is a professor of bicultural bilingual studies at the University of Texas–San Antonio and the coauthor of Las Dos Abuelas. She is the recipient of the La Prensa Outstanding Women in Action Award and is an inductee into the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame. Carmen Tafolla is a professor at the University of Texas–San Antonio and the author of more than 15 books, including The Holy Tortilla and a Pot of Beans and What Can You Do with a Paleta? She is the recipient of various awards, including the 2010 Américas Award, two International Latino Book Awards, and the Tomás Rivera Mexican-American Book Award. They live in San Antonio, Texas.