Tamales

One of the oldest foods in the Americas, tamales date back to at least 8000-5000 BCE in Mesoamerica, documented in Mayan and Aztec codices as ritual offerings and battlefield provisions. Made from masa (corn dough) stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables and steamed in corn husks or banana leaves, there are over 500 regional varieties across Mexico. Every February 2nd (Dia de la Candelaria), Mexico observes a national tradition where whoever found the baby figurine in the Three Kings Day cake must host a tamal party.