Mexico Vacation Travels Pictures, Reviews, & Deals » Puebla Mexico: Useful Information on Puebla Food, Dress, Pictures and History

Puebla: One place, many virtues

Azzi — Mon, 23 May 2011 14:46:13 +0000

Just one view of the magnificent Pico de Orizaba from Puebla gets you a feel of the city you are in. Puebla, being a colonial city and one of the most important of it’s kind, certainly has a lot to offer you in ways more than one, be it the fabulous cuisine, the breathtaking scenery, the industrial setting or the fact that some of the best pottery businesses happen to be in Puebla, this city is comprehensive. For a good reason too, after all, it is the fourth largest metropolitan city of Mexico, and certainly one of the most beautiful.

Puebla is perched high up at an altitude of 7217 ft, and is every bit as historic as it is cultural. The architecture is good enough to make it a World Heritage site. Of the 5000 historical pieces of architecture present in the whole state, you have to take special notice of the Cathedral of Puebla, a Gothic beauty at it’s best. Move along and the various museums, which chronicle the historic value of the city and the country catch your immediate attention of you happen to be a history freak. Take a walk inside the Museo Amparo, and you’d know what we mean. Besides these, the host of libraries, the noble houses etc all exude an aura that is worth experiencing first hand.

Just as you would think that you’d had enough of Puebla, think again. Don’t miss out the cuisine too. It is unique and special and every bit Mexican as you would expect. Relish, for example the savory taste of the Mol Poblano, the chiles en nogada and the cemita, all unique to the place that is Puebla. Wind up the vacation with the Talavera Pottery and the El Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of May) celebration, in honor of the French defeat in 1862. Just a last recommendation: Visit this place. This post alone does not do it justice.

La Purificadora, Puebla

kathy — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 07:00:17 +0000

La purificadora is a boutique property that is all about style and glamour. It is a former 19th-century water purification center located in Puebla, Mexico. The hotel features soaring stone walls and hulking dark-wood beams. Guest rooms are compact and fairly minimalist, and early construction flaws are being amended. The Suite A, which is is said to be the best among the other guestrooms has a massive terrace with nearly 360-degree views and a translucent Jacuzzi. Lowest guaranteed rate is at $120.Visit LaPurificadora.com for more details.

The Process of Making Mexican Talavera

nelsonmelle — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:30:52 +0000

Drying racks (CC photo by petirrojo courtesy of Flickr)

The gorgeous Mexican pottery known as Talavera has an intriguing history that dates back to the 16th century. Mexico is full of tales and stories, so it is sometimes difficult to trace the facts back. There is a pretty solid agreement, however, that the Talavera so popular in Mexican has far reaching roots in Spain. That is where it all began.

Applying the glaze (CC photo by petirrojo courtesy of Flickr)

While the indigenous people of Mexico have always produced beautiful pottery, in the 16th century they were taught skills that would take the art to a new level. Monks from Spain brought artisans to Mexico and these tradesmen taught local the art of pottery work known as majolica. Natural ingredients from the earth, namely clay, is transformed into pottery through use of potter’s wheels, molds or by hand.

Before and after (CC photo by petirrojo courtesy of Flickr)

While the intricate details of brushing pigments onto unfired glaze is part of the process that was missing from ancient Mexican pottery, the cultural vibrancy of the indigenous people would bring flare and brilliance to the pottery. Their use of colors and locally loved items, like flowers, foods, and animals, would set Mexican talavera a part from that of Spain.

Talavera factory in Dolores Hidalgo (CC photo by Joeh courtesy of Flickr)

Puebla was the first place that talavera took flight and today, it is the one place in Mexico with strict restrictions and standards that date back to the 16th century. These regulations are taken very seriously and even protected by the Mexican government. One such rule even dictates which clay can be used and even which area around Puebla where it can be gathered.

Talavera is indeed one of the most beautiful crafts found throughout Mexico, but a trip to one of the factories in Puebla or Dolores Hidalgo can offer an amazing snapshot of Mexican history. The colorful pottery that accompanies you back home holds a more sacred memory when you see how it is made.

Mexican Carnival: Bright Costumes, Music and Fun!

nelsonmelle — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:43:06 +0000

Carnival in Ensenada (CC photo by E.Aviles courtesy of Flickr)

Around the world, the days before Lent are a time to celebrate and enjoy life to the fullest. Also known as Mardi Gras, in Mexico however, Carnival is what is celebrated in the week before Ash Wednesday. While festivities differ from city to city, the overall theme is universal and the fun to be had is bountiful.

Carnival in Merida (CC photo by Xispo courtesy of Flickr)

If you are looking for culinary delights, then a trip to Mazatlan is sure to please. Two open-air festivals offer a grand collection of Mazatlan’s best food. Among the traditional favorites are mango shrimp and various smoked fish. Many cities have food carts selling all the familiar street fare that is easy to eat while walking along enjoying the exhibits and parades.

Carnival in Puebla (CC photo by Shanonala courtesy of Flickr)

If a more subdued celebration is your cup of tea, Merida is the place to enjoy the Carnival season. While notÂ as flashy as other Mexican celebrations, it is still quite beautiful in a traditional and humble way. Men wear the traditional, and quite stunning, guayaberas while women don some of the most gorgeous hand embroidered dresses.

Possibly the King and Queen (CC photo by E.Aviles courtesy of Flickr)

The celebrations offer some of the very best food, music and entertainment available in each town. This is the time for indulging before going without during Lent. While many celebrations around the world lack much of the religious ties, Mexico maintains a high number of practicing Catholics who take the practice of Lent very seriously. Until Ash Wesdnesday, however, there is much fun to be had.

Talavera: Mexico’s Brilliance and Vibrance Expressed Through Pottery

nelsonmelle — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 03:00:07 +0000

Talavera from Rosarito, Mexico (CC photo by DavidDennisphotos courtesy of Flickr)

While the name, talavera, comes from the Spanish city of Talavera de la Reina, the pottery originated in the Mexican cities of Puebla, Guanajuato, Mexico and Dolores Hidalgo. The Mexican pottery has strong Spanish and Chinese roots and comes from a form of pottery work known as majolica. Majolica is handmade using the earth’s resources as material and has become quite popular with eco-minded tourists.

Gorgeous blue talavera tiles (CC photo by Mexicanware courtesy of Flickr)

The beautiful art first found its way to Mexico in the 16th century. Throughout history, the art has been influenced by a wonderful mix of cultures including Egyptians, Moors, Spanish and Chinese. Mexico’s talavera is some of the most famous with tourists perusing various marketplaces for the most brilliantly colored to return home with.

Fuente de talavera (CC photo by El mundo de Laura courtesy of Flickr)

It is quite common to find talavera throughout all of Mexico and even into the United States. Puebla’s talavera has standards and regulations making it one of the most widely sought. And while there are collectors who can distinguish the various talavera styles, many simply enjoy the colors and pictures that call to them.

Brilliant talavera colors (CC photo by aussieguera courtesy of Flickr)

Flowers are one of the most popular paintings on talavera, but tiles can also have a picture made from several tiles forming a mosaic. This is becoming on of the most popular talaveras in the United States and can even be found in home improvement centers. Dishes and plates can sometimes hold small traces of lead and are usually used only as decoration. It seems like a great idea since the gorgeous colors and pictures do little good under a pile of food.

Look for this beautiful Mexican art throughout Mexico’s marketplaces and find art that you enjoy or that matches your decor. Artists are more than happy to explain the process for making their talavera and the history of their artform.

Cheesy Quisine: Mexican Queso Fundido

nelsonmelle — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:16:10 +0000

Queso fundido in Yucatan (CC photo by Jasjadekker1 courtesy of Flickr)

Melted cheese really has the magic to please even the most conservative palates. The many amazing cheeses found throughout Mexico’s cities are the main reason queso fundido is such a deliciously popular dish. This cheese fondue is much different from other fondues, mostly because of the cheese used and ingredients added. It will probably never taste the same since recipes change from chef to chef. What will always remain is the delicious texture and indulgent qualities of this delicious cuisine.

Fundido from Puebla (CC photo by Marshlight courtesy of Flickr)

Queso Asadero is the most popular cheese for fundido in Mexico. Queso Manchengo is another delicious Mexican cheese that seems made for melting. Monterrey Jack and Fontina both make good substitutes if Mexican cheese is not available. Additions to fundido can add interesting texture and taste. Tomatoes are a popular ingredient, as well as, chilies. The type of chili is going to make it hotter, sweeter or even offer a smoked quality. Mushrooms, garlic and cilantro are also popular additions.

Gooey marvel (CC photo by stu_spivack courtesy of Flickr)

The basic recipe calls for about one tablespoon of olive oil to about a half pound of cheese. The additional ingredients are usually cooked in the oil along with any spices then the cheese is gradually added while continuously stirring.

Queso from Monterrey (CC photo by cll1969 courtesy of Flickr)

Serving the dish can be tricky since the cheese begins to solidify fairly quickly. The molten mass, as seen above, is sometimes simply placed in a tortilla or over chips. One of the best ways to present fundido is how it is served throughout Mexico. The hot fundido is transferred to a sizzling hot cast iron skillet and carefully placed on the table. This method allows the cheese to cool more slowly, maintaining the perfect oozy characteristics that make it irresistible. Wherever your Mexican travels take you, make sure to try queso fundido.

If Mexico had A National Bread, It Would Be Pan Dulce

nelsonmelle — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:14:46 +0000

What a way to start the day (CC photo by andresmh courtesy of Flickr)

It just doesn’t get better than coffee with a side of pan dulce, fresh from the best panederias in Mexico. Above, a shop has been set up outside a train station in Chiapas offering coffee, pan dulce, arroz con leche and tamales. That’s the type of breakfast that will keep you smiling all day. Pan dulce has become one of the most common breakfast items and after dinner treats that throughout Mexico, and now, even extending into the U.S.

Choosing pan dulce (CC photo by Dolanh courtesy of Flickr)

Each town in Mexico seems to specialize in its own specific type of pan dulce. Like many foods of Mexico, towns and even families, put a special twist that differentiates their culinary treat from one another. Here, locals choose their favorites at a bread stall in Zihuatanejo in Guerrero, Mexico.

All shapes and sizes (CC photo by Fd courtesy of Flickr)

Regardless of which town you visit, the recipe for Pan Dulce is simple. A sweet yeast bread that comes in varying shapes and decorated with many different toppings. Colorful dessert toppings include the traditional conchas with bright pink, brown and yellow topping to pan dulce with a simple sugar coating or rainbow sprinkles. Even the simple mantecadas (shown below), which lack a topping, are one of the richest and most decadent breads you’ll ever experience.

Up close with mantecada (CC photo by El_Enigma courtesy of Flickr)

From Hermosilo to Puebla, and everywhere in between, pan dulce can be found in some form and is bound to be delicious. A must have with a side of coffee or hot chocolate, Pan dulce is perfect as an after meal treat or a simple breakfast food. When in Mexico, add pan dulce to your shopping list and indulge in this gorgeous sweet bread.

Flores de Calabasas: Fried Goodness from Squash Flowers

nelsonmelle — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 06:12:25 +0000

A Pretty And Fresh Dish From Squash Flowers

Who could guess that something as simple as a flower could become such an extravagant delicacy? Especially with the green concept of “waste not” becoming all the rage, the idea of utilizing every aspect of a plant makes the most sense. When the parts taste as wonderfully as the flowers of the squash plant, it’s easy to make the move to eco-minded.

Fried flowers (photo by Krista76 courtesy of Flickr)

The petals of the squash plant are gorgeously delicate and must be cooked within a day or two of picking. The most popular preparation calls for a light battering and then deep frying. The petals are usually stuffed with cheese or can even have a sprinkling of chili or cheese after frying. The important thing is to keep the batter light and ensure properly draining so they don’t become oil-logged.

Tostada (photo by HanoiMark courtesy of Flickr)

Above, a tasty tostada is made with beans and intricately added flowers making a very pretty dish. A handsome sprinkling of cheese and mushrooms, perhaps, complete the delicious treat. The flowers can be used as a topping much like nasturtiums are used for spicing up salads or sandwiches.

Stuffed squash flowers (photo by DrQuimbo courtesy of Flickr)

Squash is a delicious way to utilize the complete plant, in this case, the squash. While calabasas, the cooked squash, are a very popular side dish, the flowers are often enjoyed as a light appetizer. Great in the summer, the delicate petals, with a light dash of flour, make one of the tastiest fried dishes available in Mexico. You are sure to enjoy this flavorful taste of Mexico, fresh from the garden.

In Mexico, a Simple Rag Becomes Art and So Much More

nelsonmelle — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 04:49:28 +0000

Trapito (photo by Lucy Nieto courtesy of Flickr)

A trapito, a simple small rag, is what this gorgeous piece of art is. Trapitos are usually used around the house for cleaning, doing dishes or, perhaps, for polishing some furniture. It is no surprise that a culture, long known for their cleanliness, would also have the most beautiful items as implements for basic daily routines, like cleaning.

Tablecloth (photo by Lucy Nieto courtesy of Flickr)

The intricate details of textiles from Mexico can continue to impress years after first being acquired. The delicate weaves, hand stitching of embroidery or hooking of crochet blend perfectly with the most brilliant use of color to create stunning artwork. While tourists may not want to use this rag for cleaning back home, the sturdiness of these handmade goods rivals any cleaning sponge on the market. It is also one of the greenest ways to go eco-friendly at home.

Napkins (photo by Lucy Nieto courtesy of Flickr)

Much like the rags, which can bring such beauty to a typically mundane chore, napkins, like those above, can be found in marketplaces throughout Mexico. The idea of using cloth napkins has become lost due to the rush of modern society. In Mexico, however, simplicity has never gone away. Beautiful napkins, tablecloths, and dinnerware are luxuries that should be enjoyed and taken care of. Often they are the heirlooms that survive lifetimes being past from generation to generation.

Embroidered fabric (photo by Lucy Nieto cortesy of Flickr)

The fabrics, like other textiles of Mexico, vary from city to city, but always maintain a brilliance that sets them aside from any other around the world. The colors may have something to do with it, but the flowers and other pictures also have a strong impact. Places like Puebla and Oaxaca are known for their beautiful patterns, but anywhere within the country offers an amazing collection of fabrics.

When visiting a marketplace, find the textiles and look for the venders working their craft there at the stall. Most are happy to show you what they are working on, and are happy to show their trade. When traveling with children, it is a great way to show the work that goes into items we sometimes take for granted. It also enforces the importance of traditions and the things families can pass through the generations. So much can be learned, enjoyed and cherished, all from a simple cleaning rag.

Huipiles: Gorgeous Examples of Authentic Mexican Embroidery

nelsonmelle — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 18:29:15 +0000

Mexican embroidery magazine (photo by Karen Barbe courtesy of Flickr)

Huipiles or Uipilli in Nahuatl, simply means blouse. However, one look at the exquisite beauty of these loom embroidered textiles begs to ask, can they truly be considered just a blouse? More wearable artwork then simply clothing, these amazing textiles are one of the most common items traveling back home with visitors of Mexico. In a word dominated by factory processed clothing, the thought of hands painstakingly working the intricate designs is unbelievably beautiful and inspiring.

Ornate Oaxacan huipil (photo by A30_tsitika courtesy of Flickr)

The gorgeous patterns often serve to not only decorate the clothing, but also serves to give personal information of the person wearing the item. Details such as the village they live, their marital status and personal beliefs are revealed through the weaving. Various parts of Mexico also provide a stunning collection of different styles and patterns of Huipiles. The Huipiles of Oaxaca are going to be different than those found in Puebla.

Colorful huipiles (photo by A30_tsitika courtesy of Flickr)

The huipil is constructed of three panels which are stitched together to form a rectangle. A hole is made in the center for the head, although sometimes it is added during the weaving process. The sides are elaborately stitched leaving openings for the arms and sometimes, for ceremonies, streams of ribbons are also added down the length of the sides of the mid section.

Amazing details (photo by A30_tsitika courtesy of Flickr)

The length of the huipil varies running from sleeveless to fuller scapular sleeves from greater width. They can extend to the waist or run down to the calf. All huipils are worn with a skirt, regardless of their length. The corte, a type of skirt, is one of the most common accompanying the huipil.

Huipiles are an intriguing example of the detail and handmade craftsmanship still found throughout Mexico. Simply sitting and watching the artist weave the patterns is a cheap, family friendly attraction in itself. While many tourist enjoy wearing their purchased huipiles, many return home with a piece of artwork to be enjoyed decorating a wall. It truly can be a brilliant way to bring the beauty of Mexico with you.