Oral Tradition in the Kitchen: Peruvian Tamales (2021)
by Margie Cook
Almost every Latin American country has its own version of the tamale—even in Peru, the recipes vary from region to region. During the holidays, tamales are commonly enjoyed for Christmas breakfast served alongside French bread rolls and a cup of coffee. While making and assembling tamales is a time-consuming affair, it's by custom a community event or family undertaking. These recipes are passed through oral transmission; a home cooking tradition that spans generations.