This is the Day of the Expanding Man

Freddy, who ran our favorite Mexican Food Truck, aptly named Freddy's Food Truck, retired to focus on his art, but will from time to time pitch a sidewalk tent nearby to sell homemade salsas and these tamales.  

Pictured with my homemade tacos, was half of a sweet peppery pork tamal.  His wife seasons the meat and tops with a roasted red, slightly sweetened pepper sauce. These were wrapped in banana leaves.  I admit, I am a bigger fan of corn husks because it's all about the corny masa for me.  But they also must have the right ratio of filler to masa in order to be extraordinary.  There's nothing worse than a thick dry lackluster tamal.  These were really good. I'll compare them to a surprisingly tasty ham and pineapple pizza when you really wanted pepperoni and mushroom. 

Stewed Chicken Tacos

No matter the filling, I'm a huge fan of the Test Kitchen way of taco'ing.  You need a ripping hot oven. Paint oil on your corn tortillas on both sides, cheese the bottom with your choice of melty cheese for 10 minutes (450) on a baking tray, then top them quickly before folding.  They are crispy, crunchy and the best part is you can make them all at once and serve right away.  I'm just realizing you could bean and cheese your Tostadas using this method and leave for another minute or so before topping.   What a time saver!