The Tamaledays

Tamales are as much a part of Southern California Christmas celebrations as turkey. Since they’re a lot of work to make, some people like to buy them readymade. One source is La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill, which will offer chicken tamales to go throughout the holidays. Made with white meat of chicken, green chiles and Jack and Cheddar cheeses, the tamales come with two salsas. You can spoon the ancho chile cream sauce over the tamales and top it with a chopped fresh tomato salsa.

Container of 6 chicken tamales with two salsas, $9.95, at La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill through Jan 8. Check the Web site, https://www.lasalsa.com, for locations in Los Angeles and Orange counties.