Tamal: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฝ
tamal
[ tษหmษหl ]
food item
A tamal is a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (a dough made from corn) that is filled with various ingredients, including meats, cheeses, fruits, or vegetables, and then wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and steamed. It is often served with various salsas or sauces and is a staple in Mexican and other Latin American cuisines.
Synonyms
corn husk wrap, tamale
Examples of usage
- We had chicken tamales for dinner last night.
- Tamales are a popular dish during festive celebrations.
- She learned how to make spicy tamales from her grandmother.
cultural dish
Tamales are not just a food item but also represent a significant part of Mexican culture and tradition. They often come with cultural significance, especially during holidays such as Christmas or Dรญa de los Muertos.
Synonyms
Mexican cuisine, traditional food
Examples of usage
- Tamales are commonly made during the holiday season.
- Eating tamales is a cherished family tradition.
- The festival featured live music and plenty of tamale stands.
Translations
Translations of the word "tamal" in other languages:
๐ต๐น tamal
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคฎเคฒ
๐ฉ๐ช Tamal
๐ฎ๐ฉ tamal
๐บ๐ฆ ัะฐะผะฐะป
๐ต๐ฑ tamal
๐ฏ๐ต ใฟใใซ
๐ซ๐ท tamal
๐ช๐ธ tamal
๐น๐ท tamal
๐ฐ๐ท ํ๋ง
๐ธ๐ฆ ุชุงู ุงู
๐จ๐ฟ tamal
๐ธ๐ฐ tamal
๐จ๐ณ ็็ฑณ้ฅบ
๐ธ๐ฎ tamal
๐ฎ๐ธ tamal
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะฐะผะฐะป
๐ฌ๐ช แขแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ tamal
๐ฒ๐ฝ tamal
Etymology
The word 'tamal' comes from the Nahuatl word 'tamalli,' which means 'wrapped.' This reflects the traditional preparation of tamales, where masa (corn dough) is filled, wrapped, and steamed. The practice of making tamales dates back thousands of years in Mesoamerica and has evolved over time within various cultures, particularly Mexican and Central American. Tamales are enjoyed in many forms and variations, each region adding its unique twist based on local ingredients and culinary traditions. They are often associated with communal gatherings and celebrations, making them not just a food item but a symbol of cultural identity and heritage.