tamale
A tamale is a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (a starchy, corn-based dough) which is steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf. Inside the dough, there is typically a filling of meats, cheeses, fruits, chilies, or vegetables. The husk acts as a protective wrapper that is removed before eating. The word is most commonly used in casual culinary contexts and family gatherings. While "tamale" is the singular form in English, it is important to note that the singular in Spanish is actually "tamal." In English-speaking regions, it is very common to hear people refer to a single one as a "tamale," though you will often hear them discussed in the plural as a staple comfort food.
In conversation
Ordering at a food truck
I'll take two chicken tamales, please.
I'll take two chicken tamales, please.
Would you like some salsa on those?
Would you like some salsa on those?
Note that 'tamales' is the common pluralization used in English conversation.
Discussing holiday plans
We are having a tamalada this weekend to make a huge batch.
We are having a tamalada this weekend to make a huge batch.
That sounds amazing! I love homemade tamales.
That sounds amazing! I love homemade tamales.
A 'tamalada' is a social gathering where people get together to assemble tamales.
Examples
I bought a warm tamale from the street vendor.
I bought a warm tamale from the street vendor.
Learning to spread the masa perfectly is the hardest part of making tamales.
Learning to spread the masa perfectly is the hardest part of making tamales.
The family tradition involves spending all day preparing the corn husks for the tamales.
The family tradition involves spending all day preparing the corn husks for the tamales.
