
Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Puebla, Mexico
1. Mole Poblano
Rich, complex sauce made from multiple chilies, spices, and chocolate. Try it at Casa de los Siete Mangoes.
- Unique Ingredients: Features an unusual combination of seven types of chili peppers.
- Culinary Heritage: A traditional dish dating back to the Aztecs, with a unique twist added by Spanish influences.
- Versatility: Often served with turkey or pork, but can also be enjoyed as a sauce for enchiladas or tamales.
2. Chiles en Nogada
Poblano chili peppers filled with meat and fruits, covered in walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds. Visit La Golondrina restaurant.
- Historical Significance: Created to honor Mexico's independence from Spain.
- Color Symbolism: The green, white, and red colors symbolize the Mexican flag.
- Seasonal Availability: Available only during the month of September.
3. Cemita Poblana
Large sandwich filled with chicken, avocado, cheese, and sesame seeds on a special type of bun. Don't miss out on Pan de Muerto.
- Bread Quality: The unique, slightly sweet bread is what sets this sandwich apart.
- Local Ingredients: Uses fresh, locally sourced chicken and avocados.
- Customization: Can be customized with various meats, cheeses, and toppings.
4. Tlacoyo
Corn dough filled with beans or cheese, fried and topped with salsa. Try it at El Tacon de Oaxaca.
- Traditional Preparation: Prepared using a technique that's been passed down for generations.
- Portability: Ideal for eating on-the-go or as a quick snack.
- Flavor Customization: Can be filled with a variety of ingredients like tlacuitapetes (small pieces of fried fish) or huitlacoche (corn fungus).
5. Conchinita Pibil
Slow-cooked pork marinated in sour oranges and achiote paste. Visit El Porgolumbos for an authentic experience.
- Authentic Cooking Technique: Traditionally cooked in banana leaves underground.
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of citrus and earthy spices gives it a distinct taste.
- Presentation: Served in banana leaves, adding to the overall experience.
6. Memelas
Thick corn tortillas topped with beans, cheese, salsa, and various other toppings. Try them at La Oriental.
- Customization: Can be customized with a variety of toppings such as chorizo, nopales (cactus), or huitlacoche.
- Hearty Meal: Perfect for a filling and satisfying breakfast or lunch.
- Affordability: Offered at affordable prices, making it a popular choice among locals.
7. Tostadas de Tinga
Fried tortillas topped with shredded chicken in chipotle sauce, avocado, and cheese. Visit La Casería for a delicious taste.
- Spiciness Level: The smoky, spicy chipotle sauce adds a kick to the dish.
- Versatility: Can be found in various forms across Mexico, but Puebla's version is unique due to its use of local ingredients.
- Quick Service: Ideal for a quick and tasty meal on-the-go.
8. Barbacoa de Borrego
Slow-cooked goat meat served in a variety of ways. Try it at El Barco for an authentic experience.
- Traditional Cooking Technique: Cooked in a traditional pit underground.
- Flavor Profile: The rich, earthy flavors of the goat meat combined with local spices make it a standout dish.
- Versatility: Served in tacos, tostadas, or as a main course, allowing for multiple ways to enjoy it.
9. Tlayudas
Large, crispy tortillas covered with beans, cheese, meats, and salsa. Visit El Trompo for a delightful experience.
- Size: A huge, filling dish perfect for sharing.
- Customization: Can be customized with a variety of toppings such as chicken, chorizo, or mushrooms.
- Oven-Baked: Cooked in a large, traditional Mexican oven called a trompo.
10. Tostadas de Tinga de Pescado
Fried tortillas topped with fish in chipotle sauce, avocado, and cheese. Visit El Parian Market for a taste.
- Seafood Freshness: Features fresh, locally-caught seafood.
- Spiciness Level: The smoky, spicy chipotle sauce adds a kick to the dish.
- Quick Service: Ideal for a quick and tasty meal on-the-go.
11. Huejotépetl Tamales
Corn dough filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in corn husks and steamed. Visit the Zócalo market for a variety of options.
- Local Ingredients: Uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Culinary Heritage: A traditional dish dating back to pre-Hispanic times.
- Portability: Ideal for eating on-the-go or as a quick snack.
12. Esquites
Corn kernels cooked in mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cheese. Try it at the Zócalo square.
- Portability: Ideal for eating on-the-go or as a quick snack.
- Seasonal Availability: Available during the corn season, typically from May to October.
- Flavor Profile: The tangy, slightly spicy flavor makes it a popular street food.
13. Guanabana Milkshake
A refreshing milkshake made from the sweet and tart fruit of soursop. Visit La Fonda de los Siete Mangues for a taste.
- Refreshing Quality: Perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
- Local Fruit: Features the unique flavor of locally grown soursop fruit.
- Dessert Option: A great dessert or beverage option to complement your meal.
14. Chapulines
Roasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime and chili. Try them at the Zócalo market for a truly unique experience.
- Cultural Experience: A traditional Poblano snack that's part of local culture.
- Portability: Ideal for eating on-the-go or as a quick snack.
- Adventurous Taste: Not for the faint of heart, but an exciting culinary adventure.
15. Café de Olla
Traditional Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon, cloves, and piloncillo (unrefined brown sugar). Enjoy it at any local café.
- Authentic Experience: A traditional, flavorful coffee experience.
- Local Ingredients: Features locally sourced cinnamon and piloncillo.
- Affordability: Offered at affordable prices, making it a popular choice among locals.