Rodeo, California has seen better days. The highway brought many travelers through town to support numerous bars, restaurants and business. A freeway bypass was built in the name of progress. This was one of the factors that has dimmed the lights in our small town. The bars are gone and have been replaced by churches. The old movie theater has been taken over by the "Inglesia La Luz Del Mundo" church. To raise funds for their church they sell tamales on Saturdays in front of their venue. This women pictured above braves the elements and sings her tamale song. We see her all the time while walking our dog and decided it was time to give these tamales a try.
The tamales come in several different flavors. We bought beef in a red sauce and chicken in a green sauce. They cost two dollars a piece which includes little containers of salsa. They are sold warm and ready to eat. Some home made re-fried beans were made; which I might add were fortified with some bacon love. (grease) These tamales were the bomb. The fresh masa that encompasses the filling is a warm comforting flavor and texture. There is a prevalent corn flavor that is seasoned and reinforced with lard. The fillings were mild with hints of mild chili additions. These tamales are the real deal. Rodeo may be an evolving town but at least we have tamales.
Lucky you! I may have to make a trip to Rodeo myself - we love tamales and they are a nuisance to make, so win-win!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you found a winner. We buy them from a Mexican family that comes around occasionally and I really enjoy them.
ReplyDeleteZoomie, When you hit downtown Rodeo, all two blocks, roll down your window and listen for the tamale song.
ReplyDeleteBig Dude, These are very good. I have been spoiled over the years getting home made tamales from co-workers and childhood friends parents. Now that I am retired it is nice to find a good tamale.
Mr Brown I have a question, were the Tamales good as Tito's Mom? GWH
ReplyDeletegreatwhite hunter, Tito's Mom makes a very good tamale. Ray the Carwasher makes the best. I would rank them in between.
ReplyDeleteI really wish I could find a vendor like this in my part of the woods. I'm sure there's one somewhere . Great find for you. I always put bacon grease in beans. It's the rules. :)
ReplyDeleteLea Ann, When ever we go to a new Mexican restaurant, Ms. Goofy always tries the refried beans first to see if they use lard. It is a good sign if they use lard.
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