For those of you unfamiliar with the hilarious oeuvre of Monty Python, that's a "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" reference. But in all seriousness, we're not dead yet here at Sacatomato...just sleep deprived. So don't give up on us, as we promise to keep delivering the latest and greatest in local food news. And to keep that promise for today, at least, here are several upcoming foodie events for you to sink your teeth into:

Pre-Holiday Tamalada
Tamale making is an important ritual in the Mexican culture during the holidays. Women traditionally gather in the kitchen then to make dozens and even hundreds of tamales to be shared with family and friends at Christmastime. As Mexican immigrants brought their customs to the United States, many Americans have become interested in exploring this particular custom, especially because of the association of holidays and families. Chef and culinary educator Carolyn Kumpe will discuss the significance of tamale making during the holidays as well as lead a hands-on demonstration of making tamales that are savory with meat, savory vegetarian, and a sweet one. Two will be demonstrated and one will be created collectively to take home. Slow Food Sacramento is pleased to partner with the East Bay Culinary Center to hold the tamale-making seminar in the Center's beautiful new demonstration kitchen on Saturday Dec. 1 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Cost for participation is $25 for adults, $10 for children, and a discounted rate of $20 for Slow Food members. For more information, please contact Ellen Robinson at 916-362-4075, ellenr@sbcglobal.net, or Melinda McRae at 916-717-1621, mcraem@fleishman.com.

East Bay Culinary Center
522 NORTH 12TH STREET
Sacramento, CA 95814

Sunday Supper at the L
There are two upcoming winemaker dinners featuring some of the most popular wines at the L Wine Lounge and Urban Kitchen. The winemakers will attend and speak about their work.

• HdV ~ Stéphane Vivier, Winemaker
  Sunday, December 2nd
  6 p.m. Arrival; 6:30 Seating

• Ceja ~ Armando Ceja, Winemaker
  Sunday, December 16th
  6 p.m. Arrival; 6:30 Seating