At a local market, you will discover how Mexican foods like chocolate, tomatoes, avocado, and others, made their way to peoples' tables in all continents and will explore exotic staples like prickly pear cacti, jicama, and guava.​

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Exploring the culinary heritage of Mexico is a delicious journey, especially when you consider the profound impact Mexican ingredients have had on global cuisine. Here’s a guide to discovering the rich flavors and historical significance of Mexican food at the crossroads of Roma, Juárez, Centro, and Doctores:

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1. Historic Pantries: The Mexican Contribution

 

Mexico's culinary legacy includes a variety of ingredients that have become staples around the world. Here’s a closer look at some of these key foods:

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• Chocolate: Originating from the ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations, chocolate was initially consumed as a frothy, bitter drink. The Mayans and Aztecs believed it had divine properties. Today, it’s a beloved ingredient in desserts and beverages worldwide.

• Tomato: Native to Mexico, the tomato was domesticated by Mesoamerican peoples and later spread to Europe and beyond. It’s now essential in countless cuisines, from Italian pasta sauces to Indian curries.

• Avocado: Another native Mexican fruit, avocados were cultivated by ancient civilizations and are now a global favorite, often used in dishes like guacamole, salads, and as a creamy topping.

• Vanilla: Vanilla comes from orchids native to Mexico. It was used by the Totonac people and later introduced to the wider world. Its sweet and aromatic flavor is now a staple in baking and desserts globally.

• Turkey: Domesticated by indigenous peoples in Mexico, the turkey was introduced to Europe and has become a key component in dishes like Thanksgiving dinner.

• Pineapple: Native to South America and the Caribbean, pineapples were cultivated in Mexico before spreading to the rest of the world. Its sweet, tangy flavor is now enjoyed in various dishes and beverages.

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2. Discovering the Market Experience

 

At the crossroads of Roma, Juárez, Centro, and Doctores, you can explore markets and shops that highlight the historical and contemporary significance of these Mexican ingredients.​

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• Food Tastings: Sample dishes that showcase Mexican ingredients. For example, try:

  • Chocolate: Taste artisanal chocolate made from traditional Mexican cacao beans.

  • Tomato-Based Salsas: Enjoy fresh salsas and sauces made with tomatoes.

  • Avocado Dishes: Savor guacamole or avocado-topped tacos.

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• Flowers and Colors: Mexican markets are also known for their vibrant array of flowers and colorful displays. Discover the beauty and diversity of Mexican flora, including marigolds and dahlias, which are used in both culinary and ceremonial contexts.

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3. Historical Context and Global Influence

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• Culinary History: Learn about the historical journey of these ingredients from ancient Mexican civilizations to their global spread. Discover how Mexican cuisine influenced and was influenced by other culinary traditions.

• Cultural Significance: Understand the cultural importance of these foods in Mexico and their impact on global cuisine. Each ingredient carries a rich history and has played a role in shaping culinary practices around the world.

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4. Exploring the Crossroads

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• Neighborhood Exploration: Walk through the vibrant neighborhoods of Roma, Juárez, Centro, and Doctores. Each area offers a unique blend of historical and modern influences, reflected in its markets, restaurants, and cultural sites.

• Local Delicacies: Try local delicacies that use these traditional Mexican ingredients. Enjoy dishes prepared with fresh produce and spices that reflect Mexico’s diverse culinary heritage.

 

This exploration will not only highlight the delicious foods that originated in Mexico but also give you a deeper appreciation for their global impact. Enjoy the culinary journey through these vibrant neighborhoods!

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WHAT YOU WILL DO

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At a great local market, you will discover and taste how Mexican foods like chocolate, tomato, avocado, corn, and many others, made their way to peoples' tables and supermarkets in all continents and will explore healthy exotic and  local staples like nopal cacti, jicama, and guava while learning their properties. At the crossroads of town, turkey, peanuts, pumpkins, beans, and vanilla will be seen in their context before they left Mexico to conquer other palates.

We will focus on foods native to Mexico and the region and how influential they are for nutrition like amaranth and nopal. We will see poultry, fruits, flowers, insects, vegetables and cereals, and learn how they have been, both ancestrally and modernly, prepared.

The difference between drinks and distillates from the Agave family will be shown for your better enjoyment of Tequila, Mezcal, Pulque and more. You will meet chilis, learn their differences and how they have adapted to the American (Chili), Hungarian (Paprika), Philippine (Siling Labuyo), Spanish (Pimentón) and more cuisines.

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WHERE YOU WILL BE

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At the crossroads of Roma, Juárez, Centro and Doctores lies Mercado Juárez, an important produce depot which opened at the end of the 19th Century.

We will walk, sit, taste, eat and drink samples of products all within the same market. It is one of the few markets with a subway station incorporated in it: Cuauhtémoc station. 

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WHAT IS INCLUDED

 

• The experience's specialized host and expert.

• Small group access.

• Introductory chat.

• Multiple stops. 

• Entrance to open, private, or public, locations whose internal visit is mentioned and that might or not require reservations or tickets.

• Food samples and tastings at selected locations. Water, coffee, tea, soft drinks and even icicles are also available to buy.

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THE EXPERIENCE

You will learn how the Age of Exploration provided foods, produce, flowers, and ingredients which were only known locally around the planet.

In all, we hope to empower your culinary creativity for impressing your guests by sharing the true roots of Mexican foods and ingredients and how they have made perfect matches around the world.

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STARTING POINT, ENDING POINT, FACILITIES AND TRANSPORTATION 

 

This experience starts and ends at the very same market, next to Metrobus station Cuauhtémoc on Line 3. Cuauhtémoc metro station is on premises. Uber or other cars can pick you up at the market's entrance. Your host will always remain with you until he makes sure everyone has the right directions and/or help for their next destination.

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