Breckenridge Texan

Tamale makers will have the chance to show off their skills during the Texas Tamale Championship on Saturday, Nov. 22, in downtown Breckenridge during the second day of the annual Mingle & Jingle holiday shopping event.

Hosted by the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce, the tamale cook-off is free to enter for all cooks and will feature both judged and public tasting categories. Participants must prepare five identical tamales for judging and 20 additional tamales for public plates. All tamales must be made using the same masa and stuffing, and only tamales are allowed inside the provided clamshell containers.

Judging will be based on four criteria: aroma, taste, texture and overall presentation. Winners will be announced at 1:30 p.m.

Masa and stuffing may be pre-made, and corn shucks may be brought in pre-soaked; but, the tamales must be assembled and steamed on-site. No electricity will be available, but participants may use propane stoves, tamale machines, warmers and roasters.

Set-up begins at 6:30 a.m., and both judged and public plate tamales must be turned in and ready by noon.

Each team will be provided with a 10-by-10 space and one table and must bring their own chairs.

Cash prizes will be awarded: $500 for first place, $300 for second and $100 for third. An additional $100 prize will be given for the best table decoration with a holiday theme.

The event is sponsored by the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce, Clear Fork Bank, Ernie’s Spanish Kitchen and Chicken Express.

For more details, call the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce at 254-559-2301.