Ancient Mayan Culture and Cuisine in Valladolid, Mexico [2]
In order to travel back in time and experience the ancient Mayan culture [3] one must journey to Valladolid, Mexico located on the Yucatán Península. Valladolid is the location of some of Mexico’s most renowned and imperative archaeological sites including Chichėn Itzá and Tulum. Valladolid is an ancient colonial city built entirely out of stone. The city, even today, seems to resonate with Mayan customs and history. Many individuals in Valladolid only speak Tucatec Maya and the women still wear huipil, a staple of traditional female Mayan clothing from the days of old.
In terms of Mayan cuisine, the Mayans were known for their classic dish, cochinita pibil meaning roughly “baby pig roasted under the ground”. Cochinita pibil is essentially a shredded pork and tomato dish served on top of a banana leaf. It is usually eaten with habanero salsa and pickled red onions. By tradition in Mayan societies, cochinita pibil was buried in a fire pit where it would then roast slowly. Another famous Mayan dish is called chilaquiles. This is an authentic Mayan breakfast plate made with tortilla chips, green chili, onion, and chicken. Mayan cuisine [4] has been known to involve a strong reliance on seafood, fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables. Traveling to Valladolid gives tourists the ability to experience the rich culture and cuisine of ancient Mayan societies.