Ep 2. History of Oaxaca Cuisine

Pati's Mexican Table is a beloved cooking show that explores the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Mexico. In season 6 episode 2, titled "History of Oaxaca Cuisine," host Pati Jinich takes viewers on a journey through the vibrant and complex flavors of Oaxacan cooking.

Oaxaca, a state located in southern Mexico, is known for its colorful markets, ancient ruins, and, of course, its unique cuisine. Pati explores the history of Oaxacan cuisine and how it has been influenced by the region's indigenous peoples, Spanish colonizers, and African slaves. From the mole sauces that are synonymous with Oaxacan cuisine to the use of regional ingredients like squash blossoms and chapulines (grasshoppers), every aspect of this culinary tradition is investigated in detail.

Throughout the episode, Pati introduces viewers to a variety of Oaxacan dishes and demonstrates how to make them step by step. Some highlights of the episode include:

- A traditional Oaxacan breakfast of enfrijoladas filled with chorizo and topped with black bean sauce and queso fresco. - The making of a classic mole negro, one of the most revered dishes in Oaxaca. Pati breaks down each step of the complex process, which involves toasting and grinding more than 20 different ingredients and then simmering them for hours to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. - A visit to a Oaxacan market to explore the local ingredients and meet some of the vendors who keep the traditions of Oaxaca alive. - The making of tlayudas, a popular Oaxacan street food that involves a large corn tortilla spread with black bean puree, then topped with tomato, avocado, and meat (usually beef or chorizo) before being grilled to perfection.

Throughout the episode, Pati is a warm and engaging host, sharing her own personal connections to Oaxacan cuisine and the people and places that keep the tradition alive. Her passion for the food and culture of Mexico is infectious, making this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in the country's culinary traditions. Whether you're an experienced home cook or just someone who loves to eat, Pati's Mexican Table is sure to inspire you to try new flavors and techniques in your own kitchen.