Why Isa’s Tamales is Reviving a 10,000-Year Culinary Tradition

Honoring a Culinary Tradition: The Story of Isa's Tamales

In the vibrant heart of San Diego, Isabel Rosales is not just serving tamales; she's reviving a tradition that dates back 10,000 years. With each tamale crafted from scratch, Rosales honors the rich history of this beloved Latin American dish. Established in 2021, Isa's Tamales was born from a longing for the flavors of home when Rosales moved from Chicago to San Diego nine years ago. She recognizes that tamales are often reserved for special occasions, but her passion has turned what once was a labor-intensive task into a delightful venture.

The Labor of Love Behind Every Tamale

Making tamales is no small feat; it involves soaking, kneading, mixing, and rolling masa filled with various ingredients and wrapped in corn husks. This meticulous process is what makes tamales comforting and celebratory—a dish that ties together generations. Historically, ancient civilizations dedicated tamales to the gods during ceremonies and also enjoyed them as everyday meals. Rosales recalls how integral tamales were to her upbringing, where they often graced the breakfast table.

From Pop-Up to Permanent Presence

Despite a rocky start, where her initial attempts to make tamales were met with challenges, Rosales persisted. She began discreetly selling them to coworkers, gradually honing her skills and gathering a loyal customer base. Participating in community events and even winning third place in a local tamale contest significantly boosted her confidence and visibility, propelling Isa's Tamales into the local food scene. Today, she can be found at various pop-ups across San Diego, including Mujeres Brew House and Sunny Grove Brewing Company, delighting customers with both meat and vegetarian options. Social medial platforms like Instagram have been instrumental in building her brand and reaching a wider audience, showcasing her culinary creations and involvement in local events.

Empowerment Through Adversity

Rosales's journey is not merely about food; it is also a tale of empowerment. As a single mother of three, she faced the difficult decision of leaving her corporate job to pursue a career she treasured. The turning point came when her daughter pointed out her unhappiness at work, prompting Rosales to consider the lessons she was imparting to her children about passion and fulfillment. Now, through Isa's Tamales, she not only provides for her family but also serves as a beacon of hope for others in her community.

Advocacy and the Future

Beyond her culinary pursuits, Rosales is a staunch advocate for victims of domestic violence, drawing on her personal experiences and using her platform to raise awareness. Her vision is to combine her culinary skills with her advocacy work—hoping to open a brick-and-mortar location that supports women recovering from domestic violence. “I want to create opportunities for those who have never had jobs and are starting anew,” she states passionately.

*** Today, as Isa’s Tamales continues to grow, Rosales hopes to inspire others and show that it is never too late to pursue their dreams. This delightful tamale venture not only brings delicious, traditional flavors to San Diego but also fosters community and healing.