The bubblegum-bright color is typical of tamales dulces — sweet tamales — to readily distinguish them from their savory counterparts. More-elaborate versions can be filled with fruits or nuts. The masa in this basic sweet tamal ($1) might have been combined with the ready-mix for a Mexican dessert. I thought I detected a faint strawberry flavor, but maybe that was just the pink talking to me.
El Tamal Mexican Fast Food
East 18th St. near the southeast corner with Church Ave., Prospect Park South, Brooklyn
Weekdays, early morning till lunchtime; weekends, "all day"
