Whether you’re a tamale newbie or a masa master, this class offers a rare chance to learn from a living legend whose recipes have fed Tucson for generations. Come hungry and leave with full hands, a full belly, and a heart full of Sonoran flavor.
Get ready to roll, fill, and feast! Join Tucson’s beloved tamalera, Matilde Santa Cruz, for a hands-on red beef tamale-making class that’s more than just cooking. It’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and community.
You'll learn Matilde’s time-honored techniques for preparing rich red beef filling and perfectly pliable masa, make 4–6 tamales to take home and steam yourself, take home a dozen fully cooked tamales, ready to share (or savor solo—we won’t judge!), and enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Matilde’s famous tamales, rice, beans, salsa, and refreshing beverages.
CLASS NOTES: The address for the class, limited to 30, will be emailed after registration. You'll receive an email with class details (everything you'll need will be provided) 3 days in advance. Please use an email address you frequently check. Our emails can get caught in spam filters or blocked entirely. Please contact us if you don't receive the class information.
All classes, workshops, and events are nonrefundable. You can request a transfer to a different class or event up to 7 days prior to the class or event. Culinary Boot Camps or workshops require a 14-day notification. Your request must be emailed to: flyingapronstucson@gmail.com. Required General Liability Waiver.