Tamal vs Tamale: Do These Mean The Same? How To Use Them

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, there are certain words that are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among food enthusiasts. One such example is tamal and tamale. So, what is the difference between the two? Let’s find out.

It’s important to note that both tamal and tamale are correct spellings of the same word. The difference lies in the usage, with tamal being the singular form and tamale being the plural form. Tamal is a Spanish word that refers to a traditional Mexican dish made of masa (dough made from corn) that is usually filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, and wrapped in a corn husk before being steamed or boiled. Tamale, on the other hand, refers to multiple tamals.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and cultural significance of tamals and tamales, the variations of the dish across different regions of Mexico, and how to make them at home. So, let’s dive in!

Define Tamal

A tamal, also known as a tamal de elote or tamal de maiz, is a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (dough made from corn) that is usually filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese. The masa is spread onto a corn husk, and then the filling is added before the husk is wrapped around the masa and filling. The tamal is then steamed until it is cooked through.

Define Tamale

Tamale is the anglicized spelling of the Spanish word tamal. It refers to the same dish as tamal, but is more commonly used in the United States. A tamale is made in the same way as a tamal, with masa spread onto a corn husk and filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese before being wrapped and steamed. Tamale is often used to refer to the dish as a whole, while tamal can refer to a single unit of the dish.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using the words “tamal” and “tamale” in a sentence, it’s important to understand their distinct meanings and proper usage. Here’s a guide on how to use each word correctly.

How To Use “Tamal” In A Sentence

“Tamal” is a singular noun that refers to a traditional Mexican dish made of masa (a dough made from corn) that is usually filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed or boiled. Here are some examples of how to use “tamal” in a sentence:

• I ordered a tamal with chicken and green salsa.
• My grandmother makes the best tamales for Christmas.
• The tamal was too spicy for my taste.

It’s important to note that “tamal” is the correct singular form of the word, and using “tamales” as a singular noun is incorrect.

How To Use “Tamale” In A Sentence

“Tamale” is the plural form of “tamal,” and refers to more than one tamal. Here are some examples of how to use “tamale” in a sentence:

• We ordered a dozen tamales for the party.
• My favorite tamales are filled with cheese and jalapeño.
• She brought a plate of tamales to share with the office.

It’s important to note that “tamale” is the correct plural form of the word, and using “tamals” or “tamales” as a singular noun is incorrect.

In summary, “tamal” refers to a single traditional Mexican dish, while “tamale” refers to multiple tamales. By using these words correctly, you can show respect for the culture and traditions behind this delicious food.

More Examples Of Tamal & Tamale Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the difference between tamal and tamale, it’s important to see how they are used in sentences. Here are some examples:

Examples Of Using Tamal In A Sentence

• I can’t wait to try the traditional Oaxacan tamal.
• She makes the best tamales in town, but her tamal recipe is a secret.
• The tamal de elote is a sweet variation made with corn.
• My abuelita used to make tamales and tamales de dulce every Christmas.
• Do you know how to make a tamal from scratch?
• The tamal was wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed to perfection.
• He ordered a tamal de pollo and a tamal de rajas.
• Have you ever tried a sweet tamal with raisins and cinnamon?
• The tamal was filled with pork and topped with salsa verde.
• My favorite tamal is the one with mole sauce.

Examples Of Using Tamale In A Sentence

• I love to eat tamales for breakfast with a side of salsa.
• The tamale festival is a popular event in our town.
• Her tamale recipe has been passed down for generations.
• We bought a dozen tamales to take to the family reunion.
• The tamale dough is made with masa harina and lard.
• He ordered a tamale with chicken and a tamale with cheese.
• Do you prefer your tamales spicy or mild?
• The tamale was wrapped in a corn husk and steamed for hours.
• She sells tamales and other Mexican specialties at the farmers market.
• My mom makes the best tamales, but her tamale pie is a close second.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, the words tamal and tamale are often used interchangeably. However, this is a common mistake that many people make. Understanding the difference between tamal and tamale is crucial for anyone who wants to appreciate the unique flavors and textures of these dishes.

Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes people make is using the word tamal when they actually mean tamale. Tamal is the singular form of the word, while tamale is the plural form. Another common mistake is using tamale as an adjective to describe a dish that contains tamales. For example, saying “tamale pie” instead of “tamal pie” is incorrect.

Another mistake people make is assuming that tamal and tamale are the same thing. While they are similar, there are some key differences between the two. Tamal is a traditional Mexican dish made of masa (dough made from corn) that is usually filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and then wrapped in a corn husk before being steamed. Tamale, on the other hand, is a dish made of several tamales that are usually served with a variety of toppings and sauces.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

If you want to avoid making these common mistakes, there are a few tips you can follow. Always use tamal when referring to a single dish and tamale when referring to multiple dishes. Additionally, try to avoid using tamale as an adjective to describe a dish that contains tamales. Instead, use tamal or tamal-based to describe the dish.

It’s also important to remember that tamal and tamale are not interchangeable. While they may seem similar, they are two distinct dishes with their own unique flavors and textures. By understanding the differences between these two dishes, you can better appreciate the rich history and culture of Mexican cuisine.

Context Matters

When it comes to the choice between tamal and tamale, context matters. The decision to use one form over the other can depend on a variety of factors, including regional differences, cultural traditions, and personal preferences. Here are some examples of different contexts in which the choice between tamal and tamale might change:

Regional Differences

In Mexico, the singular form of the word is tamal, while in the United States, it is often spelled tamale. This difference in spelling can cause confusion, especially for those who are not familiar with the regional variations. For example, if you are writing a recipe for tamales and your audience is primarily based in the US, you may want to use the spelling tamale to avoid confusion.

Cultural Traditions

The choice between tamal and tamale can also depend on cultural traditions. In some regions of Mexico, for example, tamales are typically made with corn husks, while in other regions, banana leaves are used instead. Depending on the cultural context, using the appropriate term can help to convey a sense of authenticity and respect for tradition.

Personal Preferences

Finally, personal preferences can also play a role in the choice between tamal and tamale. Some people may simply prefer one spelling over the other, or they may have grown up using a particular term and feel more comfortable with it. In these cases, the choice may be less about context and more about individual style.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using “tamal” and “tamale” may seem straightforward, there are some exceptions to consider. Here are a few cases where the rules may not apply:

Regional Differences

Depending on the region, the spelling and usage of “tamal” and “tamale” may vary. For example, in some parts of Mexico, “tamale” is the preferred spelling, while in other regions, “tamal” is more commonly used. Similarly, in some Latin American countries, such as Colombia and Venezuela, “tamal” is the only spelling used.

Contextual Differences

Another exception to the rules is the context in which the words are used. In some cases, “tamal” and “tamale” may be used interchangeably, depending on the context. For instance, in a casual conversation, someone may use “tamale” instead of “tamal” without it being considered incorrect.

Cultural Differences

Finally, cultural differences can also play a role in the usage of “tamal” and “tamale.” For example, in some regions, “tamal” refers to a specific type of tamale, while in others, it may refer to any type of steamed or boiled corn dough wrapped in a husk. Similarly, in some cultures, the word “tamale” may refer to a sweet dessert, while in others, it is strictly a savory dish.

It’s important to keep in mind these exceptions when using “tamal” and “tamale” in your writing or conversation, as they can vary depending on the region, context, and culture.

Practice Exercises

Now that we have a better understanding of the difference between tamal and tamale, it’s time to put our knowledge to the test. Here are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these two words in sentences:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Fill in the blank with either tamal or tamale:

1. My grandmother makes the best __________.
2. I ordered a __________ for lunch.
3. Would you like to try a __________?
4. My mom taught me how to make __________.

Answer Key:

1. My grandmother makes the best tamal.
2. I ordered a tamale for lunch.
3. Would you like to try a tamal?
4. My mom taught me how to make tamales.

Exercise 2: Multiple Choice

Choose the correct option to complete the sentence:

1. My favorite Mexican dish is a. ___________ b. ___________.
2. My friend made tamales/tamals for dinner last night, and they were delicious.
3. Can you pass me a tamale/tamal, please?
4. It takes a long time to make tamales/tamals from scratch.

Answer Key:

1. a. tamale b. tamal
2. My friend made tamales for dinner last night, and they were delicious.
3. Can you pass me a tamal, please?
4. It takes a long time to make tamales from scratch.

Exercise 3: Writing Practice

Write a short paragraph (3-5 sentences) using both tamal and tamale correctly:

Answer Key:

My family and I love to make tamales during the holidays. We spend hours preparing the masa and filling, and then we wrap each tamale in a corn husk before steaming them. My favorite part is eating a hot tamal right out of the steamer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the difference between tamal and tamale lies in their origins and usage. Tamal is the singular form of tamales, which is a traditional Mexican dish made of masa dough and filled with various ingredients, then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. Tamale, on the other hand, is the Americanized version of the Mexican dish, which is often used to refer to a single tamal.

It is important to note that while tamal is the correct Spanish term for the dish, tamale has become widely accepted in the English language, especially in the United States. However, using tamal instead of tamale can add a level of authenticity and respect for the traditional Mexican dish.

Overall, this article serves as a reminder of the importance of grammar and language use in our daily lives. Whether we are communicating with others or simply writing for ourselves, it is crucial to understand the nuances of language and use them correctly. We encourage readers to continue learning about grammar and language use, and to explore the rich cultural heritage behind traditional dishes like tamales.