Do you love discovering regional delicacies and exploring the unique flavours of a place? Then Oaxaca, Mexico is the perfect destination for your next gastronomic adventure! Known as the “land of seven moles” because each region has its own variation that showcases its distinct culinary identity. From traditional street-style tlayudas to classic moles, this city will leave visitors with a memorable food experience. In this blog post, we’ll go in-depth on why Oaxaca should be at the top of your list when deciding where to explore Mexican cuisine.
Oaxaca is a city in Mexico and is the capital of the state of the same name, which has been known for its rich cultural heritage and gastronomic traditions. Boasting an indigenous population of over 50% from numerous ethnicities, the largest groups being Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. It is considered as the culinary capital of Mexico, and for a good reason. The city has a unique blend of pre-Hispanic and Spanish colonial influence, making it a foodie’s paradise.
Oaxaca Mexico
Oaxaca’s Unique Cuisine
Oaxacan cuisine stands out for its singular combination of flavours and cooking styles. The city is situated in a region that is rich in indigenous herbs and spices, which gives its dishes a distinctive flavour. Some of the ingredients used in Oaxacan cuisine include corn, beans, chillies, chocolate, and herbs such as hoja santa and epazote. Oaxacan cuisine is also characterised by the use of the comal, a flat griddle used for cooking tortillas, tlayudas, and other traditional dishes. Compared to other regional cuisines in Mexico, Oaxacan cuisine is more focused on traditional cooking methods and ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes and Drinks
There are many traditional Oaxacan dishes and drinks that you should try when visiting. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Mole Negro – This rich and complex sauce is made with up to 30 ingredients, including chillies, chocolate, and spices. It’s typically served with chicken or turkey and is a staple in Oaxacan cuisine.
- Tlayudas – These large, crispy tortillas are filled with beans, cheese, meat, and vegetables. They’re often compared to pizzas and are a popular street food in Oaxaca.
- Sopa de Guias – This light and flavorful soup is made with squash tendrils and other vegetables. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lighter meal, a great vegan option.
- Mezcal – This distilled alcoholic beverage is made from the agave plant and is an essential part of Oaxacan culture. There are many types and flavours to try, and you can find mezcalerias all over the city.
- Quesillo – This stringy, white cheese is a staple in Oaxacan cuisine and is often used in dishes like tlayudas and quesadillas.
- Chapulines – These toasted grasshoppers are a popular snack in Oaxaca and are often seasoned with salt, lime, and chilli powder.
- Chocolate Oaxaqueño – This thick, rich hot chocolate is made with Mexican chocolate and cinnamon. It’s typically served with a sweet bread called pan de yema.
- Tejate – This refreshing drink is made with corn, cacao, and the seeds of the mamey fruit. It’s often served cold and is a popular choice during hot summer days.
- Garnachas – They’re essentially small, crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, meat (often shredded chicken or beef), cheese, and salsa. They’re often served as a snack or appetiser.
- Tamales – They’re made from masa (a dough made from corn) that’s filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, vegetables, and chilies. The filling is then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed until cooked through. Tamales can be savoury or sweet, and they’re often served with a side of salsa or hot sauce.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes and drinks you can try in Oaxaca. Don’t be afraid to explore and try something new!
Oaxaca Mexico | Mezcal
Exploring Oaxaca’s Food Scene
Oaxaca has a vibrant food scene, with many markets, street food stalls, and fine dining restaurants to choose from. The Mercado de la Merced and the Mercado 20 de Noviembre are two popular food markets where you can find a wide range of ingredients and prepared dishes. For street food, you can try tlayudas or quesadillas at the stalls in the Zocalo or Santo Domingo Plaza. When it comes to fine dining, there are many restaurants that offer traditional Oaxacan cuisine, such as “Casa Oaxaca” and “La Teca” by Deyanira Aquino.
Oaxaca’s Culinary Traditions and History
Oaxacan cuisine is also deeply rooted in indigenous traditions and techniques, such as the use of the comal and the metate, a stone tool used for grinding corn. Its cuisine has a rich history and cultural significance. The city is known for its traditional festivals and events, such as the Guelaguetza, a festival celebrating Oaxacan culture. Also called the Lunes del Cerro, or “Mondays on the Hill,” is celebrated on the last two Mondays of July. This traditional celebration showcases gender-divided dancing groups in spectacular costumes, indigenous walking bands parading through the streets accompanied by delicious native food and artisanal crafts. Each costume and dance carries not only a local cultural meaning but also a historical one derived from pre-Hispanic influences.
Oaxaca’s Mezcal Culture
Mezcal is an essential part of Oaxacan culture, and it has been only produced in the region for centuries. There are many mezcalerias in Oaxaca where you can try different types of mezcal and learn about the production process. Some popular mezcal brands from Oaxaca include Mezcal Embajador and Mezcal 400 Conejos.
Oaxaca Day Trips and Culinary Experiences
If you have time, there are many day trips and culinary experiences that you can take while in Oaxaca. You can visit Monte Alban, the most significant archaeological site in Oaxaca. You can see ancient Zapotec ruins and taste traditional dishes around the town, made with local ingredients. Another popular day trip is to the town of Mitla, known for its intricate mosaic designs and traditional weaving techniques. In Mitla, you can also try a traditional Oaxacan meal at one of the local restaurants. For a unique culinary experience, you can take a cooking class in Oaxaca, where you can learn how to make traditional dishes such as mole or tamales.
Oaxaca is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in food and culture. The city’s unique blend of pre-Hispanic and Spanish colonial influence has resulted in a distinctive cuisine that is worth exploring. From traditional dishes such as mole and tlayudas to the rich culture of mezcal, there is something for everyone in Oaxaca.
So don’t wait any longer! Book your ticket today and experience everything that Oaxaca has to offer – who knows? You might just find yourself falling in love with one of Mexico’s most delightful cities!
