I am Chef Martin, owner of TamalesTX, CaminoPilgram LLC. I make comfort food for many; consequently, tamales evoke a sense of warmth, tradition, and home-cooked goodness, in fact, regardless of their cultural background. Tamales appeal to a broad spectrum of customers, from those deeply rooted in the cultural tradition of making and consuming them to those simply looking for a delicious, convenient, or novel meal experience.
My Goal in the future of my tamale company TamalesTX isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about sharing a cultural experience, fostering community, creating joy through food, and building a sustainable, beloved brand that stands the test of time. I aim to be the definitive name when anyone thinks of delicious, authentic, and accessible tamales. Indeed, this reputation takes time to build. However, I am confident in my recipe.
El Camino de Santiago
My three pilgrimages to El Camino de Santiago unfolded as a trilogy of self-discovery.
My inaugural walk on the Camino Francés was a crucible of community, defined by the constant, joyful bustle of the main path and the ingrained, centuries-old pilgrim culture. It was a baptism into the Way, characterized by the challenging mountain passes and shared experiences.
The second journey on the Portuguese Route offered a distinct, reflective counterpoint. Trading high passes for the gentle solitude of coastal paths, it introduced a calmer rhythm punctuated by the Atlantic’s vast horizon and the unique feel of Portuguese villages.
In the end, the walk to the End of the Earth (Muxía-Finisterre) served, quite literally, as the profound epilogue. This quiet, westward path, consequently undertaken after the climax in Santiago, ultimately culminated in a visceral sense of closure found not in a Cathedral, but rather on the granite cliffs, specifically watching the sun sink into the zero-kilometer sea—a true letting go. Buen Camino!
Heading Home: An American Adventure Awaits
Below is a map of my travels. The time has finally come to return to the USA! After a period away, a strong sense of excitement is building for this journey. It’s more than just a return—it’s an opportunity to truly travel and see the United States, to reconnect with the landscape and the people. With bags packed and plans in motion, the countdown is on, and the feeling is clear: See y’all soon!
