San Antonio Family Celebrates Tradition with Tamalada Festivities
In San Antonio, Texas, the tradition of tamal-making brings families together during the holiday season. Known as tamaladas, these gatherings feature the preparation of tamales—masa wrapped around fillings like pork and beans, all nestled in corn husks. Each tamalada is more than just cooking; it’s a celebration of family history.
Family Reunion Through Tamalada Traditions
On a December Saturday morning, Anna Fossum initiated the festivities in her cousin Jessica Brunatti’s kitchen. As she popped a champagne bottle, the event officially began, marking a lively reunion of family members.
“This is a reconnection with my family history,” Anna shared. The gathering included four generations of the Riojas family, from 85-year-old matriarch Mary Alice Garcia to younger family members enthusiastic about keeping traditions alive.
Goals and Nostalgia
This year, the goal was ambitious: 27 dozen tamales. In past gatherings, they’ve produced even more—sometimes up to 50 dozen. Lydia Cedillo, Jessica’s mother, recalled making a staggering amount in previous tamaladas. “50 dozen was the most we’ve made at one time, and we were exhausted,” she said.
- Participants: Anna Fossum, Jessica Brunatti, Lydia Cedillo, and Mary Alice Garcia
- Objective: Make 27 dozen tamales
- Previous record: 50 dozen in one session
Cultural Preservation Through Cooking
The tamalada process involves everyone working together—spreading masa, filling tamales, and sharing stories. Music filled the air, with a mix of Christmas tunes and traditional Mexican songs, creating a festive atmosphere.
As they prepared tamales, Anna reflected on her childhood memories of past tamaladas organized by her mother. With her mother’s passing in 2008 and her grandmother’s recent loss, the tamalada has taken on deeper meaning. “We’re making new memories,” she added, emphasizing the importance of preserving family connections.
A Legacy of Love and Tradition
Mary Alice, a symbol of family strength, shared that the tamalada tradition has roots extending far back. “It was passed down from my mother, who learned it in the Valley, from the Rio Grande,” she explained. This cherished custom serves to maintain family bonds and cultivate new experiences.
With each tamale crafted, the family celebrates both the present and their shared history. “I want to ensure these traditions live on for future generations,” remarked Bella Young, expressing her commitment to pass down the stories and experiences tied to each tamalada.
The Outcome of Collaboration
After hours spent preparing, the first batch of tamales was fully cooked and ready for tasting. Each bite represents decades of tradition, family love, and hard work. With around twenty dozen remaining to make, the family spirit remained high as they continued their culinary journey together.
The tamalada exemplifies how food serves not just as nourishment, but as a shared experience that unites families, allowing them to create lasting memories.
