Tag: oaxaca
Colorful Alebrijes
Alebrijes are a whimsical fusion of dreams and artistry, a vibrant Mexican folk art that breathes life into fantastical creatures. This one has a riot of polka dots and hues, a proud rooster with the scales of a fish and oversized fins. I first encountered this in the movie “Coco,” where they are spirit guides…
More history at Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca
Zapotec Civilization Flourishes at Monte Albán (500 BC – 750 AD) The height of Monte Albán’s urban and cultural development, indicating the Zapotec civilization’s early prominence. Late Classic Period of Zapotec (Around 900 AD) The anthropomorphic funerary urn representing Xipe Totec reflects the religious practices during this period. Mixtec Expansion (11th – 12th Centuries) The…
Barrio de Xochimilco’s Aqueduct
In Oaxaca’s oldest neighborhood, Barrio de Xochimilco, an 18th-century aqueduct stands as a witness to history and transformation. Built to bring water from the San Felipe mountain to the valley, this aqueduct was once Oaxaca’s lifeline. The 1931 earthquake, however, marked a turning point. With a magnitude of 8.0, it caused widespread destruction and tragically…
Types of mole
Each mole has its unique blend of ingredients and flavor profile, adding distinct character to the dishes they accompany. We tried mole negro, mole coloradito and mole amarillo.
Tomb Seven at Monte Albán
I had the privilege of stepping back in time at the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo, an experience that left me in awe of the rich Zapotec and Mixtec cultures. The museum, housed in the stunning 16th-century Santo Domingo de Guzmán complex, is a treasure trove of history, art, and archaeology. Tomb Seven…
Seeing Benito Juárez all around
Unplanned, I embarked on a unique journey to explore the legacy of Benito Juárez, a name synonymous with resilience and the fight for justice in Mexican history. My exploration began in Oaxaca, Juárez’s birthplace, and concluded at the Mexico City airport, named in his honor. Here are some information I gathered. Our first stop was…
Tepache in Oaxaca
Originating from pre-Columbian times, tepache was traditionally made from corn, but modern versions typically use pineapple, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This fermented beverage, often sold in roadside stands, embodies the spirit of Mexican street food culture. Its slightly sweet, mildly alcoholic taste captures the essence of ancient recipes passed down through generations. We also see…
Empanada con Amarillo mole at La Cosecha
We ventured to La Cosecha, a renowned hub for authentic Oaxaca cuisine. The Empanada mole Amarillo, stuffed with flavorsome chicken fillings, was perfectly complemented by the Mole Amarillo’s mild heat and complex flavor profile. This sauce is less intense than its cousins, Mole Negro and Mole Rojo, which are known for their richer, deeper flavors…
Tamales Rajas at the market
Both tamales and Zongzi, Chinese leave-wrapped dumplings, involve wrapping a filling in leaves and then cooking them, usually by steaming or boiling. Tamales are typically made with a corn-based dough (masa) and can be filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, or chilies. They are traditionally wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves. Zongzi, on the…
Seeing an actual looming machine operating
Barrio, meaning ‘neighborhood’ in Spanish, takes a special significance in places like Xochimilco, Mexico City. Xochimilco is renowned for its vibrant culture, deeply rooted in traditional crafts and community spirit. Stepping into the workspace where the looming machine operates, you’re immediately enveloped by its rhythmic sound. It’s a mechanical symphony, where each clack and whirr…
Found Rambutans in Oaxaca
On a recent visit to Mercado Sánchez Pascuas in Oaxaca, we discovered rambutan, an exotic fruit native to Southeast Asia, specifically Malaysia and Indonesia. With a striking appearance resembling lychees, rambutans have a hairy, vibrant red shell. Inside, their sweet, juicy flesh offers a refreshing taste, a delightful surprise in the heart of Mexico. Location…
Finding Gong Cha in Oaxaca
We found Gong Cha in Oaxaca! Looks like there’s boba culture here as well. Amidst traditional Mexican backdrops, finding this Taiwanese bubble tea haven offered a unique fusion of global flavors, merging the charm of Oaxaca with the trendy appeal of Asian-inspired beverages. Location of Gong Cha:C. Macedonio Alcalá 201-Local 102, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000…
