THE TRADITIONAL CUISINE AND LIBATIONS OF OAXACA, MEXICO

The culinary center of the state of Oaxaca is also the name of its capital. Oaxaca is located in what is called the pre-hispanic Central Valleys region. While the dominant indigenous group here has been the Zapotecs since the pre-Hispanic period there has been influence from other groups as well such as the Mixtecs.

The indigenous people of Oaxaca have grown corn, beans, squash,  and other crops for thousands of years. Oaxaca is one of Mexico's major gastronomic and historical centers whose cuisine is known internationally.

                                    

Like the rest of Mexican cuisine, Oaxacan food is based on staples such as corn, beans, and chile peppers. But there is a great variety of other ingredients and food preparations due to the influence of the state's varied geography and indigenous cultures. 

                 

The indigenous people of Oaxaca have grown corn, beans, squash and other crops for thousands of years. In rural, especially indigenous villages, households still depend heavily on these foods with few changes in how they are grown, mostly on small plots. 

                          

The cooking here retains much of its indigenous flavor such as dishes prepared without fat (unknown before the arrival of the Spanish) and the use of the valley's abundance of vegetables and herbs especially in its moles. However, as capital of the state, it also has received influence from other parts of Oaxaca. I love this photograph of a "Frida Kahlo" look alike and her fast food enterprise in the local mercado.

Because of its mountain ranges the state has a number of climates and cultures which contributes to making the cuisine the most varied in Mexico. The state has coastal areas with seafood, the Central Valley region grows a wide variety of vegetables, and the area near Veracruz provides a year-round supply of tropical fruits. Oaxaca also has seventeen recognized indigenous groups who contribute their own cooking traditions. The cooking of each region in the state is characterized by local ingredients and to some extent cooking methods.

                                              

                                       Picking out the all-important chilis was my job! 

           

The best-known mezcal-producing area of the state is here between the city of Oaxaca and Mitla along the highway that leads to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Like tequila, mezcal is made with the cooked hearts of a species of the maguey or agave plant, but the flavor is very different. It has been described as smoky and it is usually drunk straight. It comes in several varieties and can contain flavors such as almond, coffee, and orange.

Hanging out in the Mezcal plants

The following link will take you to my blog posting on the "Libations" of Mexico 

                                     LIBATIONS OF THE MEXICAN GODS

Oaxaca's dietary staple is corn which has been Mexico's for over 7,000 years. Corn is generally dried and ground to create a dough which is then used for a number of dishes including entomatadas, empanadas, and tamales. Tortillas are called blandas and are a part of nearly every meal. The main flavoring agent is the chili pepper with varieties such amarillos, chilhuacles, chilcostles and costenos, but the most distinctive is the pasilla oaxaquena chile.

          

As for beans, Oaxacan cuisine prefers black beans in many varieties: cooked with aniseed and served in the form of soup, as a topping for street food, or with scrambled eggs in huevos con frijoles.  Another distinctive ingredient is Oaxaca cheese also called quesillo which is used to make empanadas, tortas and tlayudas. As for beans, Oaxacan cuisine prefers black beans in many varieties: cooked with aniseed and served in the form of soup, as a topping for street food, or with scrambled eggs in huevos con frijoles.   

                                                       

Sharing a meal with family at a traditional mercado is always a good meal and I think I see someone I recognize in this image.

                                                               

And visiting Oaxaca markets was even more special when our daughter Ashley joined us. What  special memories, mi hija!  

                                  

                                       Eating with the locals always make me happy!  

Thank you for visiting Mexico and Beyond: Laura's Photo Journey and I look forward to your company as I continue this blog journey.  Until next time,  saludos Laura

THE COLONIAL CITIES OF MEXICO: AN INTRODUCTION

Mexico's rich history and cultural heritage have long captivated visitors from around the world. From the ancient ruins of the Maya and Aztec civilizations to the Spanish colonial cities that dot the country, Mexico offers a wealth of historical and cultural experiences. Among the most significant of these are Mexico's colonial cities which offer a unique glimpse into the country's past and present.

From the bustling metropolis of Mexico City to charming towns like San Miguel de Allende these colonial cities are not only important historical sites, but also vibrant centers of culture and commerce. In this blog post we will explore the history, significance, and cultural richness of Mexico's colonial cities. 

Key colonial cities in Mexico including Mexico City, The capital of "New Spain" and one of the largest cities in the world during the colonial period. Mexico City also known as Ciudad de Mexico or Mexico D.F. (District Federal) is a true testament to the country's rich colonial heritage.

As the capital of "New Spain" it was one of the most important cities in the Spanish Empire during the colonial period. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325 and was later taken over by the Spanish conquistadors in 1521. During the colonial period, Mexico City was one of the largest cities in the world with a population that exceeded that of contemporary European cities like London and Paris. 

                        

As the capital of New Spain it was one of the most important cities in the Spanish Empire during the colonial period. The city was founded by the Aztecs in 1325 and was later taken over by the Spanish conquistadors in 1521. During the colonial period, Mexico City was one of the largest cities in the world with a population which exceeded that of contemporary European cities like London and Paris. 

The Spanish brought their own culture, religion, and architecture to the city creating a unique blend of indigenous and European influences. This can be seen in the city's landmarks such as the Zocalo, the main square of the city and one of the largest public plazas in the world, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the Americas, and the Templo Mayor, the main temple of the Aztecs which was discovered during the Spanish conquest.

Today Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 21 million people. It continues to be an important political and economic center and it is also a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage and colonial-era landmarks. 

Visitors can stroll through the historic center of the city and take in the sights and sounds of Mexico City's past from the grandeur of the Palacio Nacional, the official residence of the President, to the charming streets of the Coyoacan neighborhood which was once a separate village and now a bohemian area known for its colonial-era architecture, arts, craft shops, and cafes.

The Zocalo also known as the Plaza de la Constitucion is the main square of Mexico City and one of the largest public plazas in the world. It is surrounded by historic buildings such as the Palacio Nacional, the Catedral Metropolitana, and the Templo Mayor Museum.

                     

The Catedral Metropolitana, also known as the Catedral Metropolitana de la Asuncion de la Santisima Virgen Maria a los cielos, is located in the historic center of Mexico City. It is the largest cathedral in the Americas and it took nearly 250 years to build. The Cathedral is a mix of architectural styles, but mainly in the Baroque style.

The Palacio Nacional is the official residence of the President of Mexico. The palace was built on the site of the former Aztec palace of Moctezuma II and it has been the seat of government since the colonial period. The palace is also home to several important murals by the famous Mexican artist Diego Rivera.

                                       

                                                

                                                               Diego Rivera 

Templo Mayor Museum: This is an archaeological site and museum that showcases the remains of the main temple of the Aztecs and the pre-Columbian civilization of the Mexicas. The main temple was located in the center of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, which was located on the site of present-day Mexico City. The temple was discovered during the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire in 1521.

                      

                                    

   

             And my personal favorite site in Mexico City is the Museum of Anthropology.  

      

             

              Hanging out at the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City made me very happy. 

Coyoacan: is a neighborhood of Mexico City and it was an independent village before the Spanish conquest. It has been a bohemian and artistic area and it offers charming streets with colonial-era architecture as well as museums, galleries, and markets that showcase the cultural heritage of the area. The Frida Kahlo Museum is also located there, which offers a good glimpse of the colorful and bohemian life of the famous artist Frida Khalo.

OAXACA   

                            

Oaxaca, City is a colonial city located in the southern state of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture, beautiful plazas, churches, and vibrant indigenous markets.The city of Oaxaca is best known for its many cultural and folkloric celebrations and festivals such as the Guelaguetza, a cultural and dance festival that takes place annually in July.  

This festival is a celebration of the state's indigenous heritage and it brings together people from different towns and regions to showcase their traditional dances, costumes, and music. Without a doubt some of most favorite memories of living in Oaxaca are of the Quelaguetza festival with images as follows.

During the colonial period Oaxaca was a center of trade and commerce as well as an important religious and cultural center. The Spanish built grand churches and monasteries many of which are still standing today such as the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, a beautiful baroque church with an ornate façade and intricate carvings inside as seen below. 

                                 

Oaxaca is also home to a large indigenous population and this is reflected in the city's vibrant markets. Visitors can find traditional crafts, textiles, and pottery made by local artisans as well as sample Oaxaca's famous cuisine including dishes like mole negro and tlayudas.

Oaxaca City is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture and indigenous markets. Oaxaca is a colonial city located in the southern state of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture, beautiful plazas, churches, and vibrant indigenous markets. But is probably best known for its fabulous annual Guelaquetza celebration with a very small representation of this wonderful tradition as seen above and below.

                             

The city of Oaxaca is also known for its many cultural and folkloric celebrations and festivals, such as the Guelaguetza, a cultural and dance festival that takes place annually in July. This festival is a celebration of the state's indigenous heritage and it brings together people from different towns and regions to showcase their traditional dances, costumes, and music. Without a doubt some of most favorite memories of living in Oaxaca are of the Quelaguestza festival.

Local ladies in Oaxaca celebrating their heritage and customs.

Overall, Oaxaca is a colonial city that offers visitors a chance to experience Mexico's rich history, culture, and indigenous heritage all while enjoying its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant markets. It is definitely one of our favorite cities in Mexico.

PUEBLA    

                  

Puebla:  Is colonial city known for its beautiful Baroque churches and tile-roofed houses.
Also known as Puebla de Zaragoza it is a colonial city located in the state of Puebla, Mexico.

The Cathedral of Puebla

  The Virgin of Puebla

 

Puebla is also famous for its colorful tile-roofed houses known as Talavera. These houses are adorned with glazed terracotta tiles which come in a variety of bright colors and patterns. The technique for producing these tiles called Talavera was brought to Puebla by the Spanish during the colonial period and and it is still being produced today making it a major industry in the city. Visitors can see the process of making the Talavera tiles in the Talavera shops or by taking  a tour of a Talavera factorory.

Beautiful talavera pottery as seen in Puebla.

        

I say cheers to Puebla and I see I was celebrating my birthday there only one day late. 

Puebla  is also known for its rich culinary tradition, specially for its mole poblano which is a traditional dish made with a variety of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. it is usually served over chicken, pork, or beef. Visitors can try the famous mole poblano along with other traditional dishes in the city's many markets, street stalls, and restaurants.

Overall, Puebla offers a unique blend of history, culture, architecture, and food making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Mexico's colonial heritage, food and its famous Talavera.

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE      

                                                                   

San Miguel de Allende is a colonial city in the state of Guanajauto known for its charming cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings. The city center of San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE and is home to many beautiful colonial-era buildings, churches, and plazas.

          

San Miguel de Allende is also known for its charming cobblestone streets and its colorful colonial-era houses many of which have been beautifully restored and repurposed as hotels, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can stroll through the city's winding streets taking in the sights and sounds of the colonial era and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a traditional Mexican fiesta taking place in one of the city's plazas.

Dance of the Concheros in San Miguel de Allende 

The Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel is the most iconic building of the city, a beautiful and intricately detailed neo-gothic structure that stands at the heart of the city. Visitors can also explore other buildings like the Templo de la Merced, an 18th-century church with an ornate baroque façade, and the Templo de San Francisco, a 17th-century church with a beautifully restored interior.

Celebrating Easter Sunday in San Miguel de Allende

  

Making friends in San Miguel de Allende.

In summary, San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial city with a rich cultural heritage and history offering visitors the chance to experience Mexico's colonial past while also enjoying its colorful architecture, cobblestone streets, vibrant arts, cultural scene, and traditional festivals. 

And last, but not least, it was where we were living when my husband suggested I start a blog and here I am still blogging away, but from Puerto Vallarta. I say cheers to that!  

TEQUILA AND MEZCAL: LIBATIONS OF THE MEXICAN "GODS"

                         

Whether distilled drinks were produced in Mexico before the Spanish Conquest is unknown. At some point, however, the Spaniards were introduced to native fermented drinks such as pulque made from the maguey plant. Pulque, or octli, is an alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of the maguey plant. Is traditional to central Mexico where it has been produced for millennia. Soon thereafter the conquistadors began experimenting with the agave plant to find a way to make a fermented mash. The result was mezcal.

What is the difference between mezcal and tequila? Tequila is typically produced by steaming the agave inside industrial ovens before being distilled two or three times in copper pots. Mezcal, on the other hand, is cooked inside earthen pits that are lined with lava rocks and filled with wood and charcoal before being distilled in clay pots.

The term mezcal is derived from the Nahuatl word for cooked agave, the paramount plant involved in the spirit’s production. While its tall, spiky green leaves are an iconic emblem of mezcal it’s the pina, the rounded stem that resembles a pineapple, that is used to make the spirit.

                                    

Both mezcal and tequila are made from agave so what’s the difference between them? Basically, tequila is a type of mezcal. While mezcal can be produced from up to 50 species of the agave plant, tequila can be made from just one, the agave tequilana Weber, or the weber blue agave. 

Additionally, agave that’s earmarked for Tequila is steamed in ovens while the plant is often roasted in underground pits for mezcal which can provide a distinctive smoky note. So tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not tequila. Got it?       

Tequila can only be made from one type of agave Blue Agave or Weber Agave. Unlike tequila, mezcal is a spirit that can be produced from upwards of 28 varieties of the agave plant from many areas of Mexico including Oaxaca to some areas of the states of Guerrero, Durango, San Luis Potosi, and Zacatecas. The flavor profile of mezcal is very different from tequila because it is typically smokier. The above photo is of our amazing daughter who joined us on the "tequila tour."  

Agaves or magueys are found mainly in many parts of Mexico and south to the equator though most mezcal is made in Oaxaca. Mezcal can also be made in Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, San Luis Potosi, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacan, and recently approved Puebla.  

 

                              

I find this comment very true and it makes me laugh: A saying attributed to Oaxaca regarding the drink is "Para todo mal, mezcal, y para todo bien, tambien." ("For everything bad, mezcal, and for everything good, as well.")

On the most basic level tequila tends to have a smooth sweet flavor whereas mezcal is often described as savory and smoky. The smoky quality is usually attributed to the underground ovens used to cook the agave. Today, mezcal is still made from the heart of the agave plant called the pina, or pineapple, in much the same way as it was 200 years ago.

In Mexico Mezcal is generally consumed straight and has a strong smoky flavor. Mezcal is not as popular as tequila which is made specifically from the blue agave in select regions of the country.  Mexico is now exporting Mescal to other countries including Japan and the United States and exports are growing.

   

     

Agave tequilana, commonly called blue agave or tequila agave, is an agave plant that is an important economic product of Jalisco, Mexico due to its role as the base ingredient of tequila and isn't it beautiful!

Thank you for joining me at Mexico and Beyond:  Laura's Photo Journey.  I think I might have gotten a little carried away in this posting, but I will blame it on "Libations of the Mexican  gods" and I say cheers to that!  

Until we meet again, wishing you well wherever your travels and adventures take you. Saludos, Laura