Participants will learn to make Northern-style beef tamales, known as tamales norteñas. These tamales are distinguished by their slender, finger-like shape and a generous filling-to-masa ratio. The filling features tender, shredded beef simmered in a bold red chili sauce made from guajillo and ancho chiles, garlic, and cumin. Wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection, these tamales showcase the simple, robust flavors of Chihuahua cuisine. The class will be led by guest chef Dominica Rice-Cisneros.
ABOUT THE CHEF
Dominica Rice-Cisneros a California native, born and raised just blocks from Olvera Street. She is a James Beard Foundation–nominated chef and the owner of Bombera in Oakland, California, which was awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2024 and 2025.
Her culinary approach was honed at Chez Panisse, where she spent six years working closely with her mentor, Alice Waters. Emphasizing organic, local, and whole foods, Dominica has played a pivotal role in placing California-based Mexican cuisine in conversation with the protection of biodiversity and the preservation of Mexican culinary heritage.
TAMAL SERIES
Tamal or tamalli in Nahuatl, is a beautiful bundle of corn masa filled with many diverse types of ingredients and varies in size and shape depending on the Mexican state. Tamales are eaten in times of celebration and are a way to pay homage to ancestors. Today, tamaladas are a holiday tradition where families come together and create food and make memories. In this hands-on cooking class series, students will keep this laborious tradition alive by learning how to prepare masa, make a filling, and learn to fill and fold using corn husks or banana leaves as wrappers.
Celebrate 15 Years of Cultura, Comunidad y Corazón. Support LA Plaza now—donate now!
Parking
Planning your visit? Explore parking options near LA Plaza:
Option 1: LA Plaza Village
Address: 555 N. Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90012
*This parking lot is closest to Buffalo Wild Wings on Spring St. and Cesar Chavez Ave. If needed, this is ADA friendly and has ramps and elevator access to the underground lot.
Cost: $3.50 every 15 min, $18 max
Option 2: LA Plaza Parking Lot
Address: 171 Arcadia St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
Cost: $20 Flat Fee (Mon–Fri); $15 Flat Fee (Weekends). Fees might change during holidays or special occasions.
Arrival
Please allow time to arrive early to find parking. Classes have a 5-10 minute late window but will start promptly after that time.
Dress Code
We highly encourage that attendees wear closed-toe shoes when attending an active cooking class.
Photo and Media Consent
By participating in this program, you consent to LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes using photographs taken of you for advertising, promotional, and marketing purposes.
Newsletter
Want to stay in the loop about our events and programs?
Sign up for our newsletter!