It is hard to even think about planning a vacation to Mexico without imagining the finest Mexican cuisine. Its delicious flavors, rich ingredients, and unique concoctions have become famous worldwide, to the point where UNESCO has recognized Mexico’s gastronomic heritage, protecting the roots of its fine cuisine. Of course, most people are familiar with the tacos, burritos, and enchiladas that are served in North American TexMex restaurants, but these are not the true origin of Mexico’s finest dishes. On your next vacation to Cancun and the Riviera Maya, you really should try some of the specialities from the Yucatan region.
Cancun and the Riviera Maya are located on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, and as such, vacationers can truly indulge in the traditional unique dishes that combine Mayan and Spanish flare together in this region. The Yucatan food has a distinct flavor and smell, because of the fresh cilantro, chili peppers, and oregano among other fresh ingredients that are used. The use of achiote and chimole paste characterizes the Yucatan flavor as these pastes are frequently used in regional dishes from the Yucatan. When staying at Villa del Palmar Cancun, guests can enjoy a wide range of Mexican delicacies at the Zama restaurant, just ask your waiter to recommend dishes that are characteristic of the Yucatan region.
If you find yourself out and about in Cancun and Riviera Maya in search of local flavors, make sure you try some of the following dishes.
Papadzules
These can be served in a variety of ways, which includes pork, chicken, egg or cheese. It is a soft and creamy dish that has a pleasant aroma.
Cochinita Pibil
Probably the most famous and sought after Yucatan dish, the cochinita pibil can be ordered at Zama restaurant. Pork is marinated in achiote paste, habanero peppers and red onions. It is usually prepared in banana leaves and then served as a sub sandwich or taco.
Huevos Motulenos
The Huevos Motulenos is a dish that first started in Motul, a Yucatan city. It is a traditional breakfast that is served in most places in the Yucatan. The dish includes two fried eggs served with black beans and topped with tomato sauce and hot salsa on a bed of tortillas. Similar to the traditional huevos rancheros.
Panuchos Yucatecos
The Panuchos Yucatecos dish can often be found at local taco stands in Cancun and throughout the Yucatan. It consists of refried beans topped with chicken, onion, lettuce, tomato sauce, avocado, and cheese. They are great for a snack or a meal.
Lime Soup
This sopa de lima is made with local limes which are sweeter than most varieties and not as tart. The soup also includes garlic, cilantro, chicken, and avocado with a dash of salt.
