There’s nothing quite like the experience of exploring a new culture through its cuisine. And if you’re looking to dive into some of the most notable dishes of Mexico, there’s no better place to do it than in Oaxaca. This charming city, located in the southern part of the country, is renowned for its vibrant food scene and its rich culinary traditions. And the best way to get to know this amazing city is by taking a cooking class.

Cooking classes in Oaxaca are an incredible way to learn more about the culture of the region and to get a taste of the amazing dishes that have made it famous. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, there’s a class out there that’s perfect for you. Here are just a few of the most notable dishes you’ll learn how to make:

Mole: Perhaps the most famous dish in Oaxaca, mole is a rich, complex sauce that is made from a variety of ingredients, including chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. It’s typically served with chicken or turkey and is a must-try for any food lover visiting the region.

Tlayudas: Often referred to as “Mexican pizza,” tlayudas are a popular street food in Oaxaca. They consist of a large, crispy tortilla that is topped with beans, meat, cheese, and a variety of other toppings. They’re a delicious and satisfying meal that you can easily make at home once you’ve learned how.

Chapulines: If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try chapulines, which are toasted grasshoppers that are commonly eaten as a snack in Oaxaca. They’re surprisingly tasty and are a unique culinary experience that you won’t soon forget.

Taking a cooking class in Oaxaca isn’t just about learning how to make these delicious dishes, though. It’s also an opportunity to connect with the local people and to gain a deeper understanding of their way of life. Cooking is an integral part of Mexican culture, and by participating in a class, you’ll be immersing yourself in that culture in a truly meaningful way.

So why not take the leap and sign up for a cooking class in Oaxaca? Whether you’re a food lover, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and memorable experience, you won’t regret it. You’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a newfound appreciation for the amazing cuisine of Mexico.

Mole Recipe:

Mole is a complex sauce that typically requires a long list of ingredients and a lot of preparation time. Here is a simplified recipe for chicken mole that you can try at home:

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dried ancho chilies, seeded and stemmed
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. In a separate pan, toast the ancho chilies and sesame seeds over medium heat until fragrant. Add the raisins and cook for another minute.
5. Place the toasted ingredients in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Add a little bit of water if needed to help the puree blend.
6. In the same pot used for the chicken, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
7. Add the pureed chili mixture, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and coriander to the pot. Stir until the mixture is fragrant and the spices are well combined.
8. Add 2 cups of chicken broth to the pot and stir until the sauce is well combined. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
9. Add the chocolate chips to the sauce and stir until they are melted and incorporated.
10. Add the chicken back into the pot and spoon the sauce over the chicken.
11. Cover the pot and place it in the oven. Cook for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
12. Serve the chicken mole with rice and tortillas, and enjoy!