Tortillas, Nixtamal and Salsas Workshop

The "Tortillas, Nixtamal and Salsas Workshop" in Oaxaca City offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the vibrant culinary traditions of the region. Under the guidance of an expert instructor, you will engage in hands-on activities that showcase the intricate processes behind classic Oaxacan dishes. From mastering the nixtamalization of corn to crafting freshly-made tortillas and preparing aromatic salsas, this workshop promises an authentic and personalized experience that delves into the rich cultural significance of these staple foods. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious explorer, this workshop promises to expand your understanding of Oaxacan cuisine in ways you never imagined.

Key Points

• A hands-on workshop in Oaxaca City, Mexico, focusing on traditional tortilla making, nixtamal process, and Oaxacan salsa preparation.
• Opportunity to learn from an expert instructor with extensive knowledge of Oaxacan culinary traditions and techniques.
• Personalized small-group experience (maximum 5 travelers) for interactive cooking and culture.
• Insights into the significance of corn-based dishes and the care involved in making staple ingredients like tortillas and salsas.
• Chance to prepare iconic Oaxacan dishes like memelas, tetelas, and tlacoyos, and appreciate their cultural heritage.

Workshop Overview

The Tortillas, Nixtamal and Salsas Workshop takes place in Oaxaca City, Mexico, and has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from travelers.

The workshop has a 5.0-star rating from 53 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, and it has earned a Badge of Excellence from Nomad Cook.

The hands-on cooking experience focuses on transforming corn into tortillas, preparing salsas, and creating various Oaxacan dishes, including memelas, tetelas, and tlacoyos.

The workshop is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized learning environment led by the knowledgeable and passionate instructor, Luis.

Menu and Activities

Participants can look forward to an array of culinary delights during the workshop. The experience starts with assorted snacks, coffee, fresh-made tortillas, and a salsa molcajeteada.

For the main course, they’ll learn to prepare traditional Oaxacan dishes like memelas, tetelas, and tlacoyos using the masa (dough) made during the workshop. Complementing the meal are refreshing beverages, including coffee, tea, and fresh fruit-based soft drinks.

Throughout the experience, participants actively engage in the cooking process, transforming corn into tortillas, crafting salsas, and creating these authentic Oaxacan specialties.

• The workshop offers a hands-on culinary adventure.
• Participants learn traditional techniques and ingredients.
• The menu showcases the diversity of Oaxacan cuisine.
• The experience provides cultural insights into local food practices.

Meeting Details

The meeting point for the workshop is Plaza de Las Nieves, Jardín Sócrates 3, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico.

The workshop starts at 9:00 am and returns to the same meeting point.

It’s a small-group experience, with a maximum of 5 travelers.

The instructor, Luis, is praised for his knowledge, teaching style, and passion for Oaxacan cuisine.

Participants can expect an interactive cooking experience that provides insights into local traditions and culinary practices, as well as the opportunity to engage with the instructor on a personal level.

Participant Experience

Beyond the meeting details, participants can expect an educational and hands-on cooking experience that provides insights into Oaxacan cuisine and culture.

The workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn about the region’s ingredients, including the traditional nixtamal process, and to create authentic Oaxacan dishes.

Participants will:

1. Gain valuable knowledge about Oaxacan culinary traditions.
2. Engage in interactive cooking sessions to hone their skills.
3. Develop a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of the local cuisine.
4. Enjoy a personalized and immersive experience led by a knowledgeable instructor.

Instructor Highlights

Luis, the instructor, is praised for his extensive knowledge, engaging teaching style, and genuine passion for Oaxacan cuisine.

Participants consistently highlight the fun and relaxed atmosphere he creates, allowing them to feel comfortable asking questions and engaging with him on a personal level.

His expertise in the nixtamal process and local ingredients shines through, providing valuable educational insights into the rich culinary traditions of Oaxaca.

The authenticity of the experience is a key factor in the overwhelmingly positive reviews, with travelers appreciating the opportunity to learn directly from a skilled and enthusiastic local guide.

Transforming Corn Into Tortillas

At the heart of the Tortillas, Nixtamal and Salsas Workshop lies the transformation of corn into tortillas, a fundamental aspect of Oaxacan cuisine. Participants learn the traditional nixtamalization process, which involves soaking and cooking corn kernels in a lime solution to remove the hull and release the nutrient-rich niacin.

This crucial step enhances the flavor, texture, and nutritional profile of the resulting masa, or corn dough. The hands-on experience allows participants to:

1. Witness the laborious process of grinding the nixtamalized corn into a smooth, pliable dough.
2. Skillfully shape the masa into perfectly round tortillas.
3. Cook the tortillas on a traditional comal, a flat griddle.
4. Appreciate the care and attention required to create these staple Oaxacan dishes.

Preparing Oaxacan Salsas

The workshop’s focus on Oaxacan salsas allows participants to explore the vibrant flavors and techniques that define this essential component of the region’s cuisine.

Under the expert guidance of the instructor, Luis, attendees learn to prepare the classic salsa molcajeteada, crafting a rich and smoky blend of roasted tomatoes, chiles, garlic, and herbs.

The hands-on experience extends to other regional specialties, like the tangy salsa verde made with tomatillos and pungent herbs.

Participants gain an appreciation for the time-honored traditions and the interplay of ingredients that lend depth and complexity to these quintessential Oaxacan condiments.

Creating Iconic Oaxacan Dishes

Three distinct Oaxacan dishes take center stage during the workshop’s hands-on cooking activities. Participants learn to prepare memelas, tetelas, and tlacoyos using the freshly made masa (dough) from the nixtamalization process.

These iconic Oaxacan dishes showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage and the versatility of corn. The interactive experience allows attendees to:

1. Understand the traditional techniques and ingredients used in Oaxacan cuisine.
2. Appreciate the cultural significance of these dishes in Oaxacan daily life.
3. Develop practical skills in shaping and cooking the masa-based specialties.
4. Savor the flavors of these authentic Oaxacan delicacies.

The workshop provides an immersive and educational exploration of Oaxaca’s vibrant food culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cost of the Workshop?

The workshop’s cost is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, it’s likely that the workshop has a fee, as it’s described as a highly-rated and educational cooking experience in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Is Transportation to the Meeting Point Provided?

The workshop does not provide transportation to the meeting point. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the Plaza de Las Nieves in Oaxaca City, where the workshop begins at 9:00 am.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available?

The workshop offers vegetarian and vegan options. Participants can expect to learn about and create traditional Oaxacan dishes using plant-based ingredients. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice to the instructor.

Can I Take the Recipes Home With Me?

Yes, the workshop provides participants with the recipes used during the cooking class so they can recreate the Oaxacan dishes at home. The instructor ensures each guest leaves with the knowledge and resources to continue their culinary journey.

How Much Prior Cooking Experience Is Required?

This workshop is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced cooks. No prior cooking experience is required, as the instructor provides thorough guidance and hands-on instruction throughout the session.

The Sum Up

The "Tortillas, Nixtamal and Salsas Workshop" in Oaxaca City offers a comprehensive culinary experience, immersing participants in traditional Oaxacan cooking. Under the guidance of expert instructor Luis, travelers engage in hands-on activities, gaining insights into the nixtamalization process, crafting fresh tortillas, and preparing vibrant salsas. This personalized, small-group setting allows participants to explore the cultural significance of these staple dishes and savor the flavors of Oaxacan cuisine.