The holidays are here, and it's time to unwrap those beautiful tamales. But if you don't want to spend hours making yours, where should you get them?

(Updated for 2020.)

Alamo Tamales & Taco: The staple on Berry Road has a tried-and-true reputation for hand-rolled tamales. Varieties include pork, beef, chicken, bean, sweet corn, and bean, cheese and jalapeño. You can get also get machine-made tamales for about five bucks cheaper per dozen, but why would you do that?

Balderas Tamale Factory: Open for nearly 20 years, the family-run establishment in Cy-Fair sells a dozen tamales (pork, chicken, hot beef) starting at $9. Gravy, hot sauce, and now beans and queso are also on offer in side, small, and large portions. If you want to place an order, get it in now.

Candente: Birria de res, brisket, and rajas tamales available ($20–$25 per dozen). Call 281-888-1929 and order by Dec. 21.

La Mexicana: Order tamales from this popular, family owned Montrose spot. Get a dozen for $16.95. Catering menu here; call to order.

Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen: You can make tamales along with chef/owner Sylvia Casares over a Zoom tamalada party from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 23. For $65, you'll get all the ingredients needed (pick up before 3 p.m. Dec. 22 from Sylvia's Eldridge). To reserve, call 832-230-3842 before 5 p.m. Dec. 18.

Tacos A Go Go: Six-packs of pork tamales are $14.99, and vegan tamales are $13.99. Available for takeout and delivery from all Tacos A Go Go locations.

Underbelly Hospitality: Javi's pork tamales are available at $26 for a dozen. Order by Dec. 19, and pick up at the Hay Merchant on Dec. 22.