The aromas of sizzling chiles and simmering spices wafted through the air, beckoning us into Lucia’s cozy kitchen in San Angel, one of Mexico City’s most charming neighborhoods. As a travel blogger, I’ve had my fair share of culinary experiences around the world, but this one promised to be truly extraordinary.
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Lucia welcomed us with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm as she introduced us to the vibrant world of Mexican cuisine. With her guidance, we embarked on a journey to unlock the secrets of traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations.
Our first stop was the humble sope, a thick, hand-formed tortilla topped with a myriad of flavors. As we carefully molded the masa dough, Next, we tackled the beloved quesadilla, which was unlike quesadillas I am familiar with in the U.S. We formed empanada-like pockets of masa filled with huitlacoche, mushrooms, and zucchini flowers. Lucia taught us the art of layering the perfect combination of cheese, vegetables, and proteins, ensuring that every bite was a delightful explosion of textures and tastes.
But the true showstopper was the chiles rellenos, a dish that required patience and finesse. We carefully roasted and peeled the poblano peppers, stuffing them with a savory mixture of cheese and corn and cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce.
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Finally, we ventured into the realm of sweet and tangy with the poached prickly pear, a delightful dessert that celebrated the bounty of Mexico’s native flora. As we carefully peeled and poached the vibrant fruit, Lucia shared her passion for preserving culinary traditions and supporting local farmers.
Throughout our culinary adventure, Lucia’s infectious enthusiasm and deep-rooted love for her culture shone through. Her kitchen became a canvas where we painted flavors, blending ancient techniques with modern twists, creating dishes that were not just meals, but works of art.
As we savored the fruits of our labor in Lucia’s beautiful garden, sharing laughter and stories around Lucia’s table, I realized that true culinary exploration goes beyond just tasting new dishes. It’s about immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of a culture, weaving together flavors, traditions, and memories into a beautiful, delectable experience. This was the first time we enriched our understanding of a culture by learning to cook the food, but it will not be the last.
Thanks for stopping by! To book your cooking class with Lucia, check out Viator! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about this trip, check out the Uncovering Mexico City Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.