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Christmas tamales are a cherished tradition for many families. Find out where to get your tamales in Midland here–plus learn some interesting history about this beloved dish!
If there is one thing that we Texans are spoiled by, it is the luxury of finding some of the best Mexican cuisine right in our state. If you’ve traveled outside of Texas and tried Mexican food, you’ve likely missed the authentic flavors we have that keep us coming back for more.
When I met my husband in 2009, I was introduced to a longstanding family tradition that we’ve carried on as we started our family. At first, I was surprised at the thought of having tamales on Christmas. Still, as this tradition became one we’ve shared with our children, I have since wondered why Christmas tamales are a thing—and I’d love to keep the tradition going by finding the best tamales in Midland. So, here I’ll share with you what I’ve seen when it comes to finding the best tamales in Midland–as well as some history behind this classic Hispanic family tradition.
For centuries, tamales have been a staple of Mexican culture. Tamales date back to Mesoamerica and were enjoyed by the Mayans and Aztecs. The history of tamales is so old that its origins date back to 8,000 to 5,000 BCE.
This ancient dish was loved for its portability, with men packing tamales for hunting trips or when heading off into battle. In these ancient tribal villages, tamales were typically served on the most special of occasions–and many regarded tamales as a sacred food reserved for the gods. Tamales have solidified themselves in the history books as one of the world’s oldest recipes—and it’s easy to say that this delicious dish has stood the test of time!
Particularly in Latin American and Mexican cultures, making tamales during the holidays is a cherished, multi-generational family tradition. This festive and communal activity creates memories that last a lifetime–all while exciting everyone’s taste buds with the delectably scrumptious finished product.
The best part of all? You can make a plentiful variety of tamales, from the popular pork with red chili, chicken with tomatillo, my personal favorite–jalapeño and cream cheese, dessert tamales, and so much more. This family tamale-making tradition, called “La Tamalada,” which translates to “tamale-making party,” is a once-a-year event many look forward to for months.
This tradition is passed down from generation to generation, and oftentimes, some of the very best tamales you can find are praised for being homemade–and not available in stores. That’s right, no vendors, and family kept recipes. So, this begs the question: Where can I find Christmas tamales in Midland?
If you have time to plan, ordering tamales online from Delia’s can be a little pricy, but I assure you it’s worth it once you take the first bite! All of their tamale varieties are sold by the dozen, prepared fresh, and frozen before shipping. I spent several years in Houston, Texas, and as many Houstonians know, Alamo Tamales is the go-to for many. But an 8-hour trek isn’t realistic, so I’ve done some digging to help fellow Midlanders like me find the best places to get tamales in Midland, Texas.
Four Locations in Midland
This quick-food staple across the Midland area offers classic pork tamales and chicken verde. Prices start at $16 per dozen. Visit their website here.
2908 W. Loop 250 North
Midland, Texas 79705
Call ahead to place your order to-go. Visit their website here.
Their Mi Tienda tamales come in several varieties, including pork, chicken, and veggie. And a dozen starts at $10. They heat easily and taste great. Discover their many tamale varieties here.
2407 N. Big Spring
If you’d like to place an order for tamales by the dozen, call in two days before your preferred pickup date.
Ultimately, it’s your call when it comes to what to serve with your Christmas tamales, but here are a few of my favorite options…
