Must-try Dishes
Chiles en Nogada - Chiles in Walnut Sauce (savory stuffed peppers) - This dish features poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce. Locals savor it particularly in September, celebrating Mexican Independence with its patriotic colors, and it's a seasonal delicacy that’s not to be missed.
Mole Poblano - Poblano Mole (complex chocolate sauce) - A rich sauce made from a blend of chiles, spices, and chocolate, typically served over chicken or turkey. It's often found in local homes during celebrations, where the recipe is passed down through generations, and when made right, it’s an explosion of flavors.
Breakfast Tacos - Tacos de Desayuno (morning tacos) - These are soft corn tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, cheese, and a variety of local ingredients like chorizo or beans. Many locals grab them from street vendors early in the morning, and letting your taco cool slightly before biting in is a common tip to avoid a burnt tongue!
Sopes - Sopes (thick corn tortillas) - These are small, thick tortillas topped with beans, meat, lettuce, and sour cream. You'll often find them at family gatherings, especially during dinner, where they serve as a communal dish and everyone builds their own.
Quesadilla de Flor de Calabaza - Zucchini Flower Quesadilla (savory cheese-filled tortilla) - Made with fresh zucchini flowers and melted cheese, it's thick and gooey when fried crisp. Often enjoyed at lunchtime, locals usually order these with an extra side of salsa for dipping — just remember to ask for the flowers when ordering!
Mixiote - Lamb or Chicken Wrap (spiced meat wrap). - Meat marinated in spices, steamed in maguey leaves until tender, offering a unique flavor. Families often enjoy this dish during Sunday gatherings, embodying the warmth of shared meals.
Elote - Grilled Corn with Toppings (grilled corn on the cob) - This street food favorite consists of grilled corn slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime. You can find it from vendors in the evening, and it's the perfect snack while exploring the vibrant streets, but be careful not to wear white!
Chile Relleno - Stuffed Chile (poblano pepper dish) - A battered and deep-fried poblano pepper stuffed typically with cheese, it's a staple at many family dinners. Best enjoyed fresh out of the kitchen, it often leads to lively discussions about who makes it best!
Desserts & Drinks
Champurrado - Champurrado (thick chocolate drink) - A warm, rich beverage made from masa (corn dough), chocolate, cinnamon, and milk. It's a favorite during chilly mornings or festive occasions, especially enjoyed with a sweet bread called "concha."
Agua de Jamaica - Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus tea) - A refreshing, tangy drink prepared by steeping dried hibiscus flowers with sugar and water. Locals savor it on hot afternoons, often served over ice at family gatherings or street markets.
Raicilla - Raicilla (agave spirit) - A traditional alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, resembling mezcal but with a unique flavor profile. It's commonly enjoyed in social settings, often accompanied by a simple lime wedge, perfect for leisurely evenings.
Chocogalletas - Chocogalletas (chocolate cookies) - Soft, cake-like cookies filled with creamy chocolate and sometimes nuts, they are a common street treat in Puebla. Often found during festivities, these cookies are a go-to snack with an afternoon coffee.
Paleta de Nieve - Paleta de Nieve (frozen fruit popsicle) - Made from fresh, local fruits blended with sugar and served on a stick, these frozen delights are a hit during sizzling summer days. Locals prefer flavors like tamarind or coconut, savoring them at community events or street vendors.
By the way, the best time for a paleta is during the peak heat of summer—kids and adults alike swarm to vendors!