America’s “Best Darn Tamale List” Released – CasaQ’s 5th Annual “Best Darn Tamale List” is compilation of tamale locations across the U.S.A.

amale Season is now officially open and CasaQ, a Hispanic Lifestyle company has released its eagerly anticipated 5th annual list of tamale locations across the US. These wrapped wonders are a popular family tradition made and eaten during the Holiday season with every country, region and family having its own unique variety.

The Best Darn Tamale List is an annual list compiled and published by CasaQ. This comprehensive list features locations across America of tamales that are made in a commercial kitchen, are available to the general public year around, can be purchased by the dozen to go or shipped overnight to consumers.

“Dieters can forget the carb and calorie counts,” says CasaQ founder, Darlene Tenes. “Our list was created for tamale-lovers who appreciate everything from a basic tamal reminiscent of the ones eaten thousands of years ago, to fancy gourmet tamales costing $8 apiece.”

Historically the tamal was recorded in 5000 BC, and may date back to as early as 7000 BC. When the Mayan, Aztec and Incan warriors went off to battle, the women came along to feed the troops making tortillas, meats, stews and drinks. Then the women got smart and creative and decided to stay home, while the men went off on their own. They now began to spread tortilla masa on corn husks or banana leaves, filled them, packed them up and sent these portable meals off with their men. Out on the war fields the men then steamed or grilled them over the fire and the tamal was born.

Since then, this once simple to-go dish has evolved. Nowadays sizes, colors and shapes vary as much as the fillings. Besides the more common home-style versions of pork, chicken, beef, and cheese, more exotic varieties can be found filled with everything imaginable from venison to crab meat, dark chocolate to sweet potato.

To see CasaQ’s 2009 Best Darn Tamale List, visit www.CasaQ.com .

About CasaQ CasaQ is a San Jose-based Hispanic lifestyle company, founded in 2005 by Darlene Tenes that is dedicated to providing unique products, services and content geared toward people who embrace the Latino culture. For over a decade Ms. Tenes is renown for planning festive and creative Hispanic events, which incorporate the traditions and customs of Spain, Mexico and Latin America. www.CasaQ.com“

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