Oaxaca: 10 Mexican Salsas Cooking Class with Taco Tasting

Taking a cooking class in Oaxaca focused on salsas might just be one of the most flavorful ways to connect with local cuisine. This particular experience—offered by Oscar Carrizosa—promises an immersive, hands-on hour and a half where you’ll learn to craft 10 iconic Mexican salsas, and then enjoy a tasting of tacos paired perfectly with your creations. It’s a fun, practical way to deepen your appreciation of Mexican flavors, especially if you love spicy food and want a more authentic experience than just eating out.

What we love about this class is its focus on variety: you’ll learn the secrets behind making everything from the fiery habanero salsa to the smoky chipotle version, plus some lesser-known options like hibiscus and tamarind salsas. And the tasting session at the end allows you to see how each salsa complements different types of tacos, turning theory into delicious practice.

One potential consideration is the short duration—just two hours—so if you’re looking for a comprehensive culinary tour, this is more focused on the salsa experience rather than a full Mexican cooking class. Still, for a quick, engaging lesson you can replicate at home, it hits the sweet spot.

This tour is perfect for foodies, culinary travelers, and anyone curious about Mexican flavors who wants a lively, authentic activity in Oaxaca. It’s also great for those who enjoy interactive experiences and tasting new tastes in a friendly setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Mexican salsas: Learn to make 10 different recipes from scratch.
• Expert guidance: Chef Carrizosa guides you through each salsa’s unique ingredients and techniques.
• Flavor variety: From spicy to smoky, sweet to tangy, discover the diversity of Mexican salsas.
• Tasting experience: End with a taco tasting paired with your freshly made salsas.
• Inclusive activity: Suitable for all ages and accessible, with English and Spanish options.
• Good value: For $80, you gain skills and flavors that can elevate your home cooking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Salsas and Experience

Setting and Meeting Point

The class takes place at Casa Crespo, a centrally located spot at the corner with Jacobo Dalevuelta street, directly opposite Jardin Conzatti. It’s a convenient location, easy to find, and offers a welcoming atmosphere for a hands-on class. The venue’s familiarity and friendly setting immediately put you at ease, making it suitable even for first-time cooks or those who’ve never attempted salsa-making before.

The Instructor and Teaching Style

Oscar Carrizosa, the guiding hand behind this experience, is praised for his knowledgeable and patient teaching style. Two reviews specifically mention how much they appreciated his clarity and friendly approach. He explains the differences between each chili—like chile de arbol, jalapeño, chipotle, and habanero—and offers tips on how to balance heat and flavor, which is critical for anyone wanting to replicate these salsas at home.

The Salsas You’ll Learn to Make

Expect to master 10 iconic Mexican salsas, each with its own character:

• Salsa Verde: Bright, tangy, made with tomatillos—perfect for tacos or grilled meats.
• Molcajete Salsa: The classic, stone-ground salsa with a rich, chunky texture.
• Xnipec: A Yucatán favorite with fiery habanero, citrus, and onion—great for those who love heat.
• Macha: A smoky, chili oil-based salsa with depth and richness.
• Borracha: A “drunken” salsa, likely with a dash of alcohol—an adventurous choice.
• Salsa with hibiscus flowers and tamarind: Offering floral and tangy notes that surprise and delight the palate.
• Guacamole vs. Guacachile: Clarifies the difference between a creamy avocado dip and a spicy, chili-infused variation.

Each salsa is demonstrated step-by-step, focusing on proper techniques—crushing, blending, seasoning—that you can try at home. The class emphasizes learning the secrets behind each recipe, making the seemingly simple task of salsa-making approachable and fun.

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The Tasting and Final Experience

The highlight is the taco tasting—a chance to sample tacos accompanied by the ten salsas you’ve helped create. This part allows you to understand how different salsas enhance various ingredients, and it encourages you to experiment with flavor pairings. The reviews praise this tasting as “delicious” and a fantastic way to see what works best with different flavors.

Duration, Cost, and Practical Details

At just 2 hours for $80, this class is good value considering the skill you’ll walk away with. It’s available mainly in the afternoon, fitting well into a day of sightseeing. Given the small group size (implied by the personalized instruction), you’ll get plenty of individual attention and the chance to ask questions. The inclusion of drinks adds to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

Accessibility and Language

The class is accessible for wheelchair users and conducted in both English and Spanish, making it inclusive for a broader audience. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes, as you’ll be working closely with ingredients and possibly getting a little messy—no apron required, but it’s nice to be ready to get hands-on.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from past participants is glowing. One reviewer from Austria called it “an amazing experience,” praising the “super friendly” staff and “delicious” flavors. Another from the Netherlands appreciated Oscar’s patience and found the recipes “delicious,” noting the tasting as a valuable part of the class. These comments reflect the class’s strength in quality instruction and authentic flavors.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is ideal for anyone passionate about Mexican cuisine or eager to learn how to make salsas like a local. Food lovers, casual cooks, or even travelers who want a memorable, hands-on activity will find it rewarding. Because it’s relatively short and focused, it suits those who want a taste of Oaxaca’s culinary culture without committing to a full day or more.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy interactive activities, this could be a highlight of your trip. The class’s emphasis on flavor, technique, and tasting makes it a practical skill builder—and a fun story to bring home.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $80, you’re gaining more than just a cooking lesson—you’re acquiring a set of skills that can spice up your home cooking and deepen your appreciation of Mexican cuisine. The quality of instruction, the variety of salsas, and the delicious taco pairing make it an honest value. It’s a relaxed, friendly environment where you can truly get a sense of the vibrant flavors that make Mexico’s cuisine so special.

This experience is best for curious eaters, those who want to understand Mexican flavors beyond just eating, and travelers seeking authentic, interactive activities. It’s not a full culinary course, but it’s a standout way to connect with Oaxaca’s culinary soul in a short time.

FAQ

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, with clear instructions and demonstrations suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

How long is the class?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, mainly in the afternoon, making it easy to fit into your travel schedule.

What’s included in the price?
For $80 per person, you get to make 10 different salsas, taste tacos paired with your creations, and enjoy drinks during the session.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in your trip planning.

Is the class accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the class is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a broad range of participants.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little salsa on—aprons are not provided.

What languages are spoken during the class?
The instruction is offered in both English and Spanish, accommodating most visitors.

Will I learn recipes I can replicate at home?
Absolutely. The class focuses on techniques and recipes you can take back and try yourself, boosting your confidence in Mexican cooking.

In all, this salsa-making class offers a lively, flavorful glimpse into Oaxaca’s culinary traditions. It’s a perfect activity for those eager to go beyond the typical tourist fare and truly taste what Mexican cuisine has to offer—one salsa at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: