Why aren’t Filipino tamales more popular or widely available, especially compared to other classic kakanin like puto or bibingka? Every time I ask for them at malls or even at local markets (outside Pampanga/Tarlac), most vendors give me a blank look. Are they just too regional, too labor-intensive, or is it about shifting tastes?
Also: do you consider the Filipino tamales actually Filipino, or just a variant of the Mexican dish that’s survived mostly unchanged? Am I the only one who thinks our version sometimes feels overshadowed by other rice cakes when it actually tastes just as good (if not better) than more celebrated kakanin?
Curious to know if anyone has an insider take or if there’s just no demand anymore.