Hold onto your hats, amigos—we’re diving headfirst into the heart and soul of Oaxaca! This city, often hailed as the culinary capital of Mexico, is a vibrant explosion of flavor, culture, and history. No trip to this magical place is complete without a pilgrimage to Mercado Central de Abastos—the grandmother of all markets, where the sights, sounds, and smells will sweep you off your feet. And let me tell you, when it comes to memelas, @memelasdonavale is the undisputed queen of the game.
The Magic of Memelas and Doña Vale
Picture this: crispy fried tortillas piled high with a symphony of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance the salsa! Memelas, the quintessential Oaxacan dish, are brought to life by Doña Vale, whose stand in Mercado Central de Abastos is nothing short of legendary. But her story? It’s just as rich as the flavors she creates.
On a recent episode of Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America, Doña Vale opened up about her incredible journey. After a devastating fire uprooted her family, she found solace in the bustling streets of Oaxaca, armed with nothing but her passion for memelas and a heart of gold. 39 years later, she’s still slinging those mouthwatering treats, now with her daughter by her side—a true family affair!
What makes her memelas so unforgettable? It’s all in the details: the handmade tortillas, crispy and golden; the pork fat (asiento) layered with beans; and, of course, her signature black salsa. That salsa, paired with pork, is a flavor explosion like no other—a smoky, spicy masterpiece that keeps food lovers coming back for more.
The Best Birthday Gift: A Food Tour of a Lifetime
This trip was extra special for me—it was my birthday, and on March 11, 2024, I joined the “Oaxacan Food Tour with Javier” through Airbnb Experiences. Running from 9 AM to 11:30 AM, this tour was a love letter to Oaxaca’s culinary scene, and it turned out to be the best food tour I’ve ever been on.
Our guide, Javier, led us through the vibrant streets of Oaxaca and into Mercado Central de Abastos, sharing stories of the market’s history and its role as a lifeline for locals. Established decades ago, this bustling market is the heart of Oaxaca, bringing together farmers, vendors, and artisans in a kaleidoscope of color and culture.
Oaxaca: Resilience and Flavor
Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s poorest cities, but from that poverty has risen a culinary scene that has captured the world’s attention. Walking through Mercado Central de Abastos, I was in awe of the vibrant produce, the intoxicating smells of grilled meats and freshly made tortillas, and the warmth of the people.
The city’s signature dishes—mole, cactus tacos, tlayudas—are a testament to the creativity and resilience of its people. Javier explained how these recipes, passed down through generations, are deeply rooted in Oaxacan culture, making them more than just food—they’re a celebration of history and identity.
A Day I’ll Never Forget
This wasn’t just a food tour—it was an immersion into the soul of Oaxaca. Huge thanks to Javi and Martha for making this unforgettable adventure possible. From the stories of the market to the vibrant dishes and the warmth of Doña Vale, every moment was a gift.
If you ever find yourself in Oaxaca, I urge you to visit Memelas Doña Vale. Better yet, book a food tour with Javier and experience the magic for yourself. Oaxaca may not have the wealth of other cities, but it is rich in culture, flavors, and heart.
This birthday was a celebration not just of another year but of the beauty of food, people, and resilience. Oaxaca, you have my heart—and my taste buds. Who’s ready to join me on the memela madness?
