A tamale is a traditional Mesoamerican dish consisting of masa (a corn-based dough) that is filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, or chilies. The masa is then wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and steamed. Tamales are a popular dish throughout all the Americas, and there are countless regional variations on the recipe.
The origins of tamales date back to the pre-Columbian era. The Aztecs and other Mesoamerican cultures made tamales as a way to preserve food and provide sustenance for their armies. Tamales were also used as a form of currency and were often given as gifts.