Tlayuda is a mexican dish originating from, and particularly popular in Oaxaca. It is commonplace in its homeland, but not that outside, in spite of its rich right to a great fame and reputation.

While lettuce, beans, meat or cheese are particularly common, there are no strict rules on what constitutes a perfect topping for the Tlayuda. Street vendors and restaurants will usually prepare their own versions according to their own preferences and experiences. What doesn’t change is the visual appeal and delicious flavors of this mouth-watering Mexican dish.

Tlayuda is not that well-known outside of mexico, and in general the best quality offerings are to be sought in the Mexican quarters of American cities, or at those places where Latin Americans constitute a majority. The seekers of the true pleasures of this magnificent flavor should make their way to magical Oaxaca and seek new experiences at the destination. Only then can they boast having enjoyed the truth in the Tlayuda.

Photos from oaxacaculture.wordpress.com, and Wikipedia.

Chapulines as a topping (photo by Cesar Rincon courtesy of Flickr)

The popularity of mexican cuisine has found its way onto the tables of homes across the world. Tacos, enchiladas and chips with salsa are just a few favorites. How do you think your family would feel about seasoned insects?

Visit cities like Oaxaca or Puebla and the local marketeers are sure to offer a culinary delight that has been enjoyed in the region for over 3,000 years. Chapulines, which are cooked and seasoned grasshoppers, are quickly becoming a popular favorite of tourists.

Chapulines in the marketplace(photo by Matt Murf courtesy of Flickr)

These crispy delights can be eaten as a snack, much like nuts, sunflower seeds or popcorn. Vendors often sell small bags of Chapulines so shoppers can eat while perusing the marketplace. There can be various flavors for Chapulines, but the most common is flavored with lime. Chili-flavored Chapulines are popular, but some locals believe the chili is usually used to cover the taste of stale grasshoppers. Still, many adore the hotter variety.

Chapulines sold in Cholula(photo by Andresmh courtesy of Flickr)

Visit Oaxaca, and the popular tlayudas are enjoyed with Chapulines as the meat. Tlayudas are a crunchy taco that usually has a smear of refried beans and pork lard and a topping of meat and lettuce or cabbage. Oaxacan cheese, of course, is also added. Chapulines and guacamole are also a marriage made in Mexican heaven and the two create a delightful treat as the topping for a tlayuda.

Tlayudas with chapulines (photo by erlin1 courtesy of Flickr)

Chapulines can be a delightful snack while enjoying the Mexican marketplace or a divine dinner topping for a delicious tlayuda. Although bizarre to some, the chapuline quickly becomes a favorite of tourist because of the crispy and flavorful characteristics similar to potato chips or fried soybeans.

The bizarre becomes standard fair once you give into this intriguing delicacy. With popular shows highlighting chapulines, maybe it stands a chance to become the next snack food favorite.