Learn to Make Tamales with Local Legend Matilde Santa Cruz

Update: The October 19th class has already sold out but there is now an additional class on October 26.

Many folks in Tucson are aware of Matilde Santa Cruz, and those who don’t think they know her have likely seen the crowd hovering around her booth at Tucson Meet Yourself. At the annual event, she’s been making flour tortillas over a mesquite fire for more than 20 years — chances are you’ve eaten her handmade treasures.

Santa Cruz is known for making tamales, too, which is not an easy task. It requires precision, patience, and a lot of hands-on work. From perfectly spreading the masa to mastering the art of wrapping them in husks, it takes real skill to get them just right.

Now’s your chance to learn from the master herself.

At 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, learn “Everything You Wanted to Know about Making Tamales” during a hands-on class with Santa Cruz.

Due to high demand, Santa Cruz added this second date because the original October 19th class sold out quickly.

In partnership with Slow Food Southern Arizona, you’ll learn her techniques for filling, folding, and steaming those delicious bundles. They will also serve lunch — tamales, beans, rice, and pico de gallo, along with horchata and pina colada, all prepared by Santa Cruz. After lunch, you will receive a half-dozen prepared tamales as well as your own attempts at rolling a few.

Tickets to the class are $35 per person and you’ll need to buy them in advance. You can get your tickets online, and the event’s location will be revealed after purchase.

For more information and to purchase your tickets, visit slowfoodsouthernaz.org. The location of the hands-on class will be revealed after you reserve your seat.

About Slow Food Southern Arizona

Slow Food Southern Arizona is an organization dedicated to preserving the region’s food culture while promoting sustainability and fairness in the food system. They’re all about celebrating local traditions, advocating for food justice, and connecting people through events that highlight the rich agricultural heritage of Southern Arizona.

Whether they’re hosting a farm-to-table feast or supporting local producers, Slow Food Southern Arizona is all about savoring every bite while making a positive impact on the community.

Get your tickets soon! Space is limited.