In Costa Rica, Christmas is not just a day on the calendar—it is a season filled with tradition, family, faith, and above all, food. While many countries associate Christmas with roasted turkey, ham, or elaborate desserts, Costa Ricans celebrate Christmas, the holiday in a way that is deeply rooted in history and community: by eating tamales.
For Costa Ricans, or Ticos as they affectionately call themselves, Christmas without tamales would feel incomplete. Tamales are not simply a meal; they are a symbol of unity, heritage, and love passed down from generation to generation.
The Heart of a Costa Rican Christmas
Christmas in Costa Rica begins long before December 25th. The holiday season officially starts in late November, when families begin preparing for one of the most important culinary traditions of the year: the tamaleada.
A tamaleada is the communal gathering where families and friends come together to make tamales. This is not a quick or casual process—it is an all-day event filled with laughter, storytelling, music, and shared memories.
Tamales are eaten throughout December, especially on:
- Christmas Eve (Nochebuena)
- Christmas Day
- Family visits
- Breakfasts, lunches, and even late-night snacks
Yes—Costa Ricans are serious about their tamales.
What Is a Costa Rican Tamale?
A Costa Rican tamale is made with corn masa (corn dough) as its base. Unlike some other regional versions, Costa Rican tamales are known for their mild, comforting flavors rather than spicy heat.
Traditional Ingredients Include:
- Pork (most commonly used)
- Sweet red peppers
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Potatoes
- Olives
- Finely chopped garlic
- Onions
- Prunes or raisins
- Salt and pepper
Each family has its own recipe, and no two tamales taste exactly the same. Some add more vegetables, others prefer extra pork, and some include chickpeas or rice. These variations are part of what makes tamales so special.
Wrapped Like a Gift
One of the most distinctive features of Costa Rican tamales is how they are wrapped.
Instead of corn husks, Costa Rican tamales are wrapped in large banana leaves, which are softened over heat before use. The banana leaves add a subtle, earthy aroma and help keep the tamale moist during cooking.
The masa and fillings are placed onto the banana leaf, folded carefully, tied together with string, and then paired with another tamale—known as a “piña”. These pairs are cooked together and served together, reinforcing the idea of togetherness and sharing.
The act of unwrapping a tamale feels almost ceremonial, like opening a present. It is slow, deliberate, and filled with anticipation.
Cooking the Tamales
Once assembled, tamales are placed in a large pot of boiling water and cooked for approximately four hours. In rural areas, especially in the countryside, some families still cook their tamales over an open fire, just as their ancestors did.
The long cooking time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a dish that is comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
Tamales at Every Meal
During the Christmas season, tamales are eaten at all times of the day.
- Breakfast: Tamale with a cup of hot coffee
- Lunch: Tamale with rice and salad
- Dinner: Tamales served with family gatherings
- Afternoon snack: Tamale and coffee (café chorreado)
An afternoon cup of Costa Rican coffee is often served with a freshly prepared tamale. This pairing is considered a perfect combination, especially during the cooler evenings of December.
Costa Rican Tamales vs. Mexican Tamales
Although tamales are eaten throughout Latin America, each country has its own unique version.
Costa Rican Tamales:
- Wrapped in banana leaves
- Mild and savory
- Focus on balance and comfort
Mexican Tamales:
- Wrapped in corn husks
- Often spicier
- Frequently include chili peppers, such as jalapeños
Both are delicious, but they reflect the culinary traditions and preferences of their cultures.
A New Bride’s Christmas Surprise
As a new bride, I arrived in Costa Rica to celebrate my first Christmas with my Costa Rican husband and his family. I had been raised in the southern United States, where Christmas dinner meant:
- Turkey and dressing
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Pumpkin pie
So when my mother-in-law placed a large plate in front of me with one lone tamale, I was surprised.
Everyone watched as I carefully unwrapped the banana leaves, revealing the tamale inside—like opening a carefully wrapped gift. I took my first bite and thought to myself, “How am I going to eat this?”
At first, the flavors seemed too mild to my American palate. I felt nervous, aware that all eyes were on me. But over time, I learned to appreciate the subtlety, the textures, and the meaning behind the dish.
Eventually, I found my own way to enjoy tamales—by adding rice and a fresh salad alongside them. With time, tamales became more than food; they became part of my life in Costa Rica.
Tamales as a Symbol of Family
The true magic of tamales lies not just in how they taste, but in how they are made.
Making tamales is a family affair:
- Grandmothers prepare the masa
- Mothers season the fillings
- Fathers help with tying and cooking
- Children assist and learn the tradition
Stories are shared. Old memories are recalled. Laughter fills the kitchen. This process strengthens family bonds and keeps traditions alive.
A Dish Passed Through Generations
Tamales have been part of Costa Rican culture for centuries, dating back to indigenous civilizations. Over time, Spanish influences added pork and new seasonings, shaping the modern tamale we know today.
Every Christmas, when Costa Ricans gather to make tamales, they are honoring their ancestors and preserving a tradition that connects past, present, and future.
Gratitude and Tradition
I would like to thank Alberto Font for the use of the beautiful photo of a Costa Rican tamale. Images like these capture not only the food itself, but the love and tradition behind it.
Final Thoughts
So, how do Costa Ricans celebrate Christmas?
They celebrate by gathering family together.
They celebrate by sharing stories and laughter.
They celebrate by honoring tradition.
And most importantly, they celebrate by eating tamales.
In Costa Rica, tamales are more than a Christmas meal—they are a symbol of love, patience, and togetherness. Wrapped in banana leaves and tied with string, each tamale carries the spirit of Christmas itself.
If you ever find yourself in Costa Rica during the holidays, accept a tamale when it is offered. Unwrap it slowly, take a bite, and you will taste not only corn and pork—but tradition, family, and the heart of Costa Rica. 🇨🇷🎄