Nana's Photo Gallery & About Us

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Meet Chef Nana ~ Michelle Ann
Founder of Tamalita Ministries | Advocate for Women in Recovery | Healer Through Food and Faith

I was born in East Los Angeles to Rita Montoya of Roswell, New Mexico, and Billy Nazario from San Juan, Puerto Rico—a rich and beautiful fusion of cultures, traditions, and flavors that shaped every part of who I am.

Although I lost my Nana when I was just four years old, her spirit has never left me—especially in the kitchen. I grew up hearing stories about how she’d rise at 4 a.m. to make fresh flour tortillas, a simmering pot of beans, and red or green chile—essentials in every New Mexican kitchen. Neighborhood kids would gather around her, drawn by her warmth and extraordinary cooking. She had 15 children of her own and a heart big enough for the entire community. Even as a small child, I remember the day she passed away—it left an imprint that never faded.

My father passed away when I was nine. He often said he married my mom for her cooking. Born and raised on Puerto Rican food between Puerto Rico and New York, he quickly fell in love with her New Mexico-style meals when he moved to Los Angeles. He adored my mother’s heart, beauty, and giving nature. When he died at just 35 years old, my mom was left to raise us on her own—yet she filled our home with love, faith, and the comfort of her kitchen.

She was the kind of woman who welcomed everyone to her table, just like Nana did. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in God were the cornerstones of my childhood. I remember her proudly saying, “Your daddy married me because I could cook!” Through her, I learned that food is love in action.

From an early age, I was right beside her, learning by feel, taste, and smell—there were no written recipes. Her cooking was extraordinary. I’d come home to the smell of red and green chile on the stove and tortillas slathered with real butter. She taught me everything: tamales, American classics, and hearty Italian meals. I inherited her intuitive sense of flavor—a gift I now carry with deep pride.

I’ve since created and completed two cookbooks, each one a tribute to my family's legacy. I honor my Nana and my mom by preserving their authenticity. I believe changing recipes to suit trends takes away their soul. While I’ve created many of my own dishes, I never lose sight of where it all began.

Today, my life’s mission is to empower women—especially those in recovery. I teach kitchen skills that help women feed their families with pride, and I incorporate education, confidence-building tools, and makeovers to support their growth. Helping women reclaim their independence and self-worth is the most fulfilling work I do. As someone walking the path of sobriety, I am deeply committed to breaking generational cycles and guiding others toward healing. With God, all things are possible.

I’m currently working to launch a nonprofit organization and sober living space where I’ll host workshops and events designed to support and educate women in recovery. Alongside this mission, I’m building the Temecula Tamale Factory, where Nana’s Tamales are made with love and purpose. Every purchase from Nana’s supports this bigger vision—helping women rebuild their lives. #TamalitaMinistries

In my kitchen, everything is made from scratch with real, whole ingredients. Most dishes are gluten-free, low-carb or keto-friendly (if you skip the flour tortillas!), and made using avocado oil—never vegetable oil or artificial products. I'm not your doctor; I’m your cook—and a good one at that!

While I’ve worn many hats—including a real estate professional since 1993—cooking has always been my first love. I’ve raised seven children with one husband (yes, just one—people ask!), and I care deeply about what goes into both your home and your meals. Food, family, faith, and real estate are the pillars of my life.

If you're looking for someone who can guide you in the kitchen, help with real estate, or support a powerful women’s ministry, I’d love to hear from you. Text me at 951-337-8814—let’s build something meaningful together. I believe in working hard, not handouts.

For those wondering, I’m a 5’1” woman with brown hair, brown eyes, a huge heart, and a great sense of humor. I avoid negativity and bring light wherever I go. I’m passionate about teaching the lost art of cooking, advocating for those in recovery, and creating joy through food and connection.

Above all, I love God with all my heart. Without Him, I am nothing.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I look forward to doing business—and life—with you.

With love,
Chef Nana ~ Michelle Ann