You probably are already aware that Mexico is known for having some of the most delicious cuisine in the world. Authentic Mexican dishes are fresh and flavorful and there are so many amazing options to choose from. Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place to visit if you want to try a variety of authentic Mexican food. There, you can find anything from casual food from a street vendor up to high-end, gourmet international dishes. Right now, the weather in Puerto Vallarta is great so it’s a nice time to book a vacation to Meixco. Before you board you flight to Puerto Vallarta, read more below to learn about traditional foods in Puerto Vallarta that you need to try.
1. Tacos
To start witih, without a doubt the taco is the number one best food in Mexico. Traditional Mexican tacos are prepared with homemade corn tortillas, then a filling, and fresh toppings. In Puerto Vallarta, you can find all sorts of great tacos. For example, the most popular tacos around town include shredded pork (called al pastor), birria, carne asada, shrimp, and fish tacos. Also, it’s common to use fresh toppings for tacos such as chopped onions, diced cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and spicy salsa. Not only are tacos delicious, they are affordable and fun to eat, too!
2. Pescado Zarandeado
Next, Pescado Zarandeado is a popular fish dish that is native to the area. This dish is a fish that is smothered in chile and spices, then it is slowly smoke-grilled in mesquite while being basted with a mixture of chiles and spices. The fish is tender inside and outside has a crisp Guajillo glaze. Then, it is served with fresh, crisp lettuce and a tangy lime dressing. If you love to eat a great meal al fresco, Pescado Zarandeado is a wonderful dish to enjoy at an outdoor barbecue. This seafood dish is inspired by Huichol cuisine and other indigenous peoples who live in the state of Nayarit which is found in Banderas Bay next to Puerto Vallarta.
3. Chile Rellenos
Thirdly, chile rellenos are another one of the best Mexican foods to try in Puerto Vallarta. This dish dates back to 1858 and a variety of chili peppers including jalapeños, pasilla chiles, and poblano peppers can be used to prepare chile rellenos. To start with, the chili peppers are toasted over medium heat. Once they are toasted, the skin is gently removed. Next, the chiles are coated with a mixture of egg and flour and fried until golden brown. Chile rellenos taste amazing inside a corn or flour tortilla or torta, or served as a main dish drizzled with a tomato sauce with a side of beans and rice.
4. Ceviche Tostadas
When in Puerto Vallarta, one of the most traditional foods to try is fresh ceviche. Prepared with chunks of white fish that has been mixed with chopped tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and lime juice, ceviche is best served on a tostada with a topping of avocado slices. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top and add salsa to taste and enjoy!
5. Chiles en Nogada
Chiles en nogada is a traditional Mexican dish that is most often prepared in December during the holidays. Chiles en nogada are poblano chiles that have been stuffed with a unique ground beef mixture that contains dried fruit. Then, the chile is then topped with a creamy sauce that is called nogada and topped with fresh pomegranate seeds and parsley. Served at room temperature, chiles en nogada is a traditional food to enjoy in Puerto Vallarta and all around Mexico.
6. Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles were first brought to Mexico in a cookbook by Encarnación Pinedo known as “The Spanish Cook” back in 1898. Today, it is one of the most popular and traditional foods in Puerto Vallarta. Traditional chilaquiles are prepared using crunchy fried corn tortilla pieces with a chile salsa over them. Usually a red sauce or green sauce made with tomatillos. Then, the tortillas are simmered until it starts softening to absorb the sauce’s flavor. They are usually served with slices of fresh onion and a dollop of Mexican cream, too.
7. Mole
Mole is a traditional Mexican sauce that is a must try food anytime you visit Mexico. To prepare this incredible sauce, it takes quite a bit of time and effort in the kitchen. Mole sauce is a complex recipe that includes various chili peppers, cumin, cinnamon, nuts, fruit, spices, and even chocolate. The dark red or brown sauce is typically served over chicken with a side of rice and beans.
8. Guacamole
Last but not least, guacamole is one of the best Mexican foods no matter where you visit. First created in Mexico, it’s a popular dip and condiment all around the world including Puerto Vallarta. Guacamole is prepared using ripe avocados that are mashed together, along with finely chopped onions, tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, lime juice and a pinch of salt. Guacamole tastes great with corn tortilla chips or as a side for many authentic Mexican dishes, too.
It’s hard to deny that there’s just something so special about Mexican food. Now that you have learned about some of the best traditional foods in Puerto Vallarta, are you ready to take a trip and try them yourself? Provecho!
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