Masa Man

Tortillas and, especially corn, have been slowly introduced into mainstream America. However thanks to Mexican American Chingo Bling , tortillas are becoming cool. In fact they're a main event in his videos and music. He's introducing this south of the border standard along with classic food to the masses.

Senor BLing was featured in the New York Times Dining section yesterday. Dining regular, John T. Edge managed to catch up with this busy musician and culinary ambassador and get an interview. Mr Bling whose real name is Pedro Herrara is a Houston native has fun with his culinary roots. He made a video much like rapper 50 Cents' "Candy Shop" called "Taco Shop" in which he turned a girl into a taco filling. However he does have a lot of respect for the immigrantnworkers, such as his mom who used to make them to sell at his father's garage.

Tamales and tacos are a big part of Mexican life. It's how many immigrant women make their living. It's not uncommon to see them in parking lots, cooking tamales and masa or corn . Some can make fifty grand a month according to Mr Bling. This pays for a lot , including housing and necessities. It shouldn't be this way however being an independent tamale maker is a lot better and more satisfying than working at a mall restaurant. It may be illegal but it's part of survival.

Hopefully Senor Bling will be featured on more mainstream videos and more mainstream music shows. Even if you eat tamales and are well versed in Mexican food, he'll open your eyes. It's not just Taco Bell. Mexican food is heart and soul along with being hard work.