Look to the salsa

We've previously discussed the right cut of meat--and the proper seasonings--to celebrate the birth of our savior. This week's podcast also includes tips on whether you can bring kolache through TSA (spoilers: it's complicated).

The editorial board here at 1 Scaianalysis Esplanade knows we all have a rich variety of traditions this time of year.

When I moved to DFW, I learned tamales play an important part in Christmas traditions here. Perhaps instead of myrrh, the Wise Men might have brought brisket.

Much like Magi followed a star to bring gifts to the newborn, Garland has introduced a trail to help you find the right tamale.

I dropped in on Dos Banderas. The owner explains they strive for a Texas-forward approach by using smoked meat and adding barbecue flavors. Currently, they serve pork tamales but hope to expand. She says they stay busy with tamales year-round, so while they might have a rush this time of year, they have the manpower to handle it.

"You know what goes good with a tamale?" I thought to myself. "Some salsa for dippin'."

I dropped in on the Renfros in Fort Worth. Becky Renfro Borbolla says she likes to use some of their cheese sauce to accentuate a tamale. Loyal Scaiaholics will recall we've discussed the Renfros' variety of salsa before.

In that blog, Doug Renfro mentioned how salsa sales went through the roof during the pandemic because more people were at home experimenting with different flavors. Borbolla also mentioned that, saying her family is expirementing, too.

They already encourage families to post recipes on their website. You might not think salsa would go well with brownies, but like those fools traipsing carelessly down the street with their chocolate and peanut butter, we learn how different tastes can complement each other. And erupt into a molten dessert.

Much like last time, the Renfros sent me home with a box of salsa. They're now getting into the relish game, so I look forward to talking a jar home for Christmas to add some kick to my mom's deviled eggs.

They're also working with Best Maid Pickle, and Borbolla says the spicy pickle salsa can make a solid bloody mary. I didn't see that on their website, but she printed a copy for me if you'd like the recipe:

Perhaps this Christmas, the greatest gift of all is knowing we might have different tastes in tamales or salsa, but if we give each other a chance, we can still come together. Consider Mexican fudge, which isn't, technically, a dessert. Or spicy spaghetti sauce.