10 traditional dishes that you should try on your next trip to Oaxaca

May 29, 2022

Oaxaca is one of the richest, most traditional states in Mexico. Maybe when you think of this place different crafts come to mind, such as Mexican artisan bags, rugs, and decorative pieces. But you should know that Oaxaca is also known for its amazing culinary scene. So if you are planning to visit Oaxaca, here are some of the most typical dishes you must try:

Mole

Mole is a Mexican dish that consists in dipping chicken in a sweet but spicy sauce. Naturally, the most important ingredients in mole are chili pepper and chocolate. In Oaxaca, you can find all kinds of moles, from black to green.

Tasajo

Tasajo is dry and slightly salty beef. It gets its texture from different techniques: drying out in the sun or smoking it. You can eat it by itself or in tacos.

Pozol

Ok, this is a beverage and not a dish. But you must try it! It is a thick beverage made out of corn and cacao. It is prepared since pre-Hispanic times, and it is very refreshing.

Tamales

You may be thinking that tamales exist all around Mexico. And you’re right. But in Oaxaca, they prepare them in a different, more delicious way. They are made in banana leaves , and they’re filled with all types of things: ants, “hoja santa”, jam, chicken, cheese, etc.

Tlayuda

Think of a tlayuda as the Oaxaca version of a pizza, but better. Its base is a crunchy big corn tortilla. They have beans, cheese, beef, chorizo, tomato, avocado, and other amazing toppings.

Crickets

When in Oaxaca, you must try crickets! It is the most delicious insect there is. They just add salt and garlic, and they fry them until they get crunchy. You can eat them in guacamole, tlayudas, or tacos. 

Molote

Molotes are an appetizer made out of corn and filled with beef, cheese, and other things. They are dripped in salsa, and they are absolutely incredible. Kind of like a fried quesadilla.

Ant salsa

We know what you are thinking: Oaxacan people sure love insects. This salsa is made out of chicatana ants, which they mix with pepper, salt, and garlic in a molcajete (the tool that makes salsas possible).

Hot chocolate

Oaxacan hot chocolate is truly delicious. It’s prepared with cinnamon, cacao, and almonds. You can order it with water or milk, they are both amazing!

Buñuelo

Last but not least, and perfect for pairing with your hot chocolate, you should try the buñuelos. They are sweet desserts that people usually eat in winter. They are round, fried, and sugary. 

What dishes are you dying to try first? 

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