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If you find yourself in Ibagué, you have to try a tamal tolimense. This specialty can be found all over town but there’s one place we recommend in particular.
Deliciosas Tamales
Head a little out of the way to Calle 21 between Carrera 6 and Carrera 7. There’s a tiny little place with a sign out front that says Deliciosas Tamales. The name translates to “Delicious Tamales”, which is simple yet exactly what they serve. An older man sits out front and serves customers homemade tamales. We had two tamales and two coffees for a very reasonable price. Be aware that it’s only open on weekends.
Tamal Tolimense
A tamal is different depending on the country or region of a country. In Colombia, tamales are wrapped in plantain leaves and quite large. One tamal can make a whole meal. They can be eaten for any meal of the day.
A tamal tolimense is the most popular version of tamal in the country. The plantain leaf is filled with a soft, mushy, corn-based dough called masa, peas, boiled egg, carrots, and a meat (usually chicken or pork), and then steamed. It’s typically served with an arepa. If eaten for breakfast, it’s common to drink a hot chocolate with it.
