In Search of the Holy Grail: LA's Best Tamale
Okay, let's talk about something serious. Like, really serious. Where to find the best tamales in Los Angeles. This is not a casual endeavor, folks. This is a quest, a pilgrimage, a holy grail hunt.
Where Are The Best Tamales In Los Angeles |
The Tamale Terrain
LA, you see, is a city of contrasts. You've got your fancy-pants restaurants serving deconstructed tamales with truffle oil and caviar (yeah, we're judging you), and then you've got the hole-in-the-wall joints that serve up tamales like your abuela used to make. It's a wild world out there.
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The Great Tamale Debate
Now, I’ve tried my fair share of tamales. I've had them wrapped in corn husks, banana leaves, and even those weird, plastic-y things. I’ve tasted pork, chicken, beef, cheese, and even some wild combinations that I’m still trying to process (looking at you, pineapple and jalape�o).
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But let's be real, the real question is: masa or dough? I'm a masa purist, but I know there are dough lovers out there. No judgment, but you're wrong.
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Where to Begin Your Tamale Odyssey
Alright, so you're ready to embark on your tamale adventure. Here are a few starting points:
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- Classic LA: Places like La Indiana Tamales and Tamales Elena are staples for a reason. They've been slinging out delicious tamales for years.
- Hidden Gems: Venture beyond the obvious and explore neighborhoods like Boyle Heights and East LA. You might stumble upon a tiny taqueria with the best tamales you've ever had.
- Food Trucks: Don't underestimate the power of a good food truck. Some of the most amazing tamales I've had have been from trucks parked on random street corners.
How to Enjoy Your Tamale Epiphany
- Pair it right: A good tamale deserves a good partner. Think about a spicy green salsa, a creamy avocado dip, or even a dollop of sour cream.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Try different fillings, different masa textures, and different salsas. You might discover a new favorite.
- Share the love: Tamales are meant to be shared. Invite your friends over for a tamale party and let the taste buds battle it out.
How-To Tamale FAQs
- How to reheat a tamale: Wrap it in foil and warm it up in the oven for a few minutes.
- How to make your own tamales: It's easier than you think! There are plenty of recipes online to get you started.
- How to tell if a tamale is cooked: The masa should be firm and cooked through.
- How to store leftover tamales: Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to a few days.
- How to freeze tamales: Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
So, there you have it. Your guide to conquering the world of LA tamales. Now go forth and explore! And remember, the best tamale is the one you enjoy the most.