In Costa Rica, Tamales are Transforming Communities

In Buenos Aires de Puntarenas, Costa Rica, the air is filled with the scent of corn dough and banana leaves. A group gathers around a long table, filled with carefully selected ingredients: corn dough, seasoned meat, rice, and various vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and chili peppers.

Patricia Sedó, in her work “The Tamale and the Tamale-Making Tradition in Costa Rica”, notes that tamales trace their roots back to the pre-Hispanic civilizations of Mesoamerica and were later adapted in Costa Rica as part of the rural diet. For centuries, families cultivated essential ingredients such as corn and harvested banana leaves directly from their farms, creating a cycle of production and consumption in which every element of the tamale came from the immediate surroundings. This made tamales a symbol of food production and security.

Under the leadership of community members of all ages, the cherished tradition of making tamales was embraced in Buenos Aires. "This tamale is controversial—it has raisins," joked Carlos Mora with a laugh as he showcased his group's creation, which contained a controversial ingredient. It's a debate similar to that of pineapple on pizza or spice in certain dishes; some enjoy their sweetness and contrast, while others see them as an unnecessary intrusion in a traditionally savory dish. More than just food, tamales represent identity, cultural value, collaboration, and family unity. The workshop replicated the tradition of the “tamaleada”, where each person takes on a specific role, passing down knowledge and practices through generations. The event highlighted the nutritional value of tamales, fostered discussions on healthy eating, and strengthened community ties.

This meaningful gathering was part of the Joint Programme “Empowering Communities in Sustainable Agri-Food Systems”, an initiative supported by the Joint SDG Fund and led by the United Nations in Costa Rica. It is implemented through its agencies: the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). The project aims to transform agricultural practices, promote healthy eating, and strengthen the governance of agri-food systems in the cantons of Buenos Aires and Guatuso (in the country’s northern region). Supported by the contributions from the European Union and Governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the private sector, the work of the Joint SDG Fund at the country level is led by the UN Resident Coordinator, bringing together the diverse expertise of UN agencies to build a transformative movement towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The programme in Costa Rica is a prime example of this collaboration.

According to the University of Costa Rica, in December, Costa Ricans prepare around 196 million piñas (bundles) of tamales at home. Additionally, 91.3 per cent of the population consumes tamales during the holiday season, and 62 per cent of households maintain the tradition of making them. This process also boosts the local economy, as selling tamales generates income, particularly for women.

From a nutritional perspective, tamales can be part of a healthy diet that connects us to our cultural roots and family traditions when eaten as a main dish. Corn dough is a good source of energy and calcium, while fillings such as vegetables and lean proteins provide essential nutrients.

"The secret ingredient is love!" exclaimed Geiner Mora, a 10-year-old boy, proudly presenting his creation. 

His words echoed a powerful reminder: tamales are more than just food—they are a cultural legacy that strengthens family and community bonds. Their preparation requires time, dedication, and teamwork, allowing the tradition to transcend generations.

A Legacy of Flavor and Culture in the Guatuso Community

Beyond Buenos Aires, more than 200 kilometres away, in Guatuso de Alajuela, another community embraced this initiative with the same enthusiasm. There, the Christmas festivities took on a new meaning. Families gathered not only to learn about healthy eating and sustainable agricultural practices, but also to reflect on sustainability and the importance of respecting nature while wrapping tamales. More than just a dish, tamales were recognized as a cultural heritage and a tribute to corn, which is considered sacred in the indigenous Maleku culture present in the community.

Though these events took place kilometers apart, both ended with a grand feast where participants enjoyed freshly cooked tamales. In Buenos Aires and Guatuso, tamales shone as a symbol of identity and unity. Tamale-making and similar traditions play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community connections while also inspiring healthier and more sustainable dietary habits.

These practices promote a more balanced diet based on fresh, local ingredients and encourage healthier eating habits.

This effort, driven by the Joint Programme, demonstrated how traditions contribute to building stronger and more sustainable communities. At their core, tamales go beyond being a meal—they symbolize intergenerational unity, community resilience, and responsible agricultural practices. Initiatives like this preserve cultural heritage and serve as a foundation for healthier, more sustainable communities, ensuring that future generations continue to gather around the tamaleada, sharing knowledge, tradition, and nourishment.