Exciting news reaches our inbox from Hampshire: Marten and Yolanda got in touch to tell us about Tamales Online, their new site which sells ready-to-heat tamales to your door. Belizean Yolanda had the idea when she couldn't find tamales anywhere in the UK - a dilemma we know all too well. Cooked to order and vacuum-packed for freshness, the tamales just need reheating by steaming or microwaving once they reach your door.
Belizean tamales differ from Mexican ones by incorporating a spice blend called recado into the dough which adds an extra layer of flavour - and a rather vivid colour! The filling also includes recado and a tomato-based sauce, resulting in a milder taste than Mexican tamales.
While tamales are rarely vegetarian in Belize, Tamales Online have included two veggie varieties - including the lovely bean and sweet potato one we tasted. We ate them with a side of refried beans and some salsa over the top which made for a delicious and warming near-instant meal.
Tamales Online have tons of filling options, even including a breakfast tamale with bacon and black pudding, and a sweet coconut and cinnamon one for afters. I can imagine the site being a real hit, with the ability to buy a big box in bulk and keep them in the freezer. Perfect for an instant warming meal and especially great for parties, we reckon.
Visit tamalesonline.co.uk to place your order!