Introducing The Vegan Escape: Oaxaca
Did you know that Oaxaca was founded on a vegan diet?
Oaxaca, a beautiful region in southern Mexico, is renowned for its rich culinary traditions, which are deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage and vibrant culture. The cuisine of Oaxaca is known for its complexity, diversity, and use of locally sourced ingredients. The little known fact that Oaxaca started out on a vegan diet is an intriguing concept that can be traced back to its rich pre-Hispanic history and indigenous cultural practices. While the modern vegan movement is a relatively recent phenomenon, traditional diets that are still alive and well today in Oaxaca have long featured plant-based foods, reflecting the agricultural abundance and biodiversity of the region.
A Legacy of Plant-Based Eating
Oaxaca’s culinary history is deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage, where plant-based ingredients have always played a central role. Before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, the diet of the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples primarily consisted of corn, beans, squash, and a variety of wild and cultivated vegetables and fruits. This ancient triad, known as the Three Sisters, provided a balanced and sustainable diet that continues to influence Oaxacan cuisine today. Oaxaca’s traditional cuisine also includes a wide array of edible plants and herbs. Amaranth, chia seeds, and nopal (cactus) were commonly consumed. These foods provided essential nutrients and were integral to the local diet. The region’s use of chili peppers, tomatoes, and cacao also played significant roles in their culinary traditions.
In addition to this rich legacy, more recently with a resurgence of interest in plant-based diets in Oaxaca blends traditional plant-based ingredients with new vegan culinary innovations. This revival is partly driven by a growing awareness of health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare issues for which us vegans in the crowd celebrate. While Oaxaca’s cuisine remains deeply traditional, it also continues to evolve. Contemporary chefs and home cooks alike are experimenting with traditional ingredients and recipes, bringing new life to ancient dishes. This fusion of old and new keeps Oaxaca’s culinary scene dynamic and exciting and we can’t wait to dive into it with you!
Traditional Ingredients with a Vegan Twist
Corn: The foundation of many Oaxacan dishes, corn is used to make tortillas, tamales, and tlayudas (large, crispy tortillas). Vegan versions of these staples often feature beans, avocado, nopales (cactus), and a variety of vegetables.
Beans and Squash: Integral to the Oaxacan diet, beans and squash are used in numerous traditional dishes. From hearty soups to rich stews, these ingredients are versatile and nutritious.
Chiles and Spices: Oaxaca is known for its diverse variety of chiles, which add depth and flavor to dishes. Many traditional moles (a category of sauce, originating in Oaxaca) are made using plant-based ingredients like nuts, seeds, and chocolate, providing rich, vegan-friendly options.
Must-Try Vegan Delicacies
Tlayudas: Often referred to as "Oaxacan pizza," these large, toasted tortillas are traditionally topped with refried beans, lettuce, avocado, and salsa. Vegan versions can include a variety of vegetables and plant-based cheeses.
Tamales: Made from masa (corn dough) and wrapped in banana leaves or corn husks, tamales are a staple. Vegan tamales are filled with ingredients like mole, mushrooms, and beans.
Mole: Oaxaca is famous for its seven moles, many of which can be made vegan. Mole negro, for instance, uses chocolate, chiles, nuts, and spices to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Beyond Food: Market Visits and Ethical Dining
Visiting local markets is a must to offer a glimpse into the daily life of Oaxacans and are brimming with fresh produce, spices, and prepared foods. Engage with local vendors, sample vegan-friendly snacks, and discover the rich culinary heritage of Oaxaca.
Supporting local restaurants and markets that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices is crucial. Many establishments in Oaxaca are committed to using organic, locally sourced ingredients, and supporting these businesses helps to promote a more sustainable food system.
Join Us on Our Vegan Escape 2025, a 100% Plant-Based Culinary Adventure
In today’s fast-paced and often disconnected world, establishing and valuing a sense of community is more important than ever. Each of our tours are designed to foster connections among like-minded individuals, focusing on the passions that bring us together. For this tour, we will be renting a beautiful house where everyone can enjoy their own space while benefiting from exclusive access to communal areas. This setup allows us to share experiences, play games, and participate in authentic Mexican vegan cooking classes in our kitchen led by local chefs. It’s the perfect blend of casual relaxation and cultural immersion with our community of compassionate people. We will handle transportation after you arrive to Oaxaca as well as accommodation and food, with daily activities planned together. All you need to do is show up and enjoy!
Authentic Experiences Vetted Just for You
Our carefully vetted tours provide high-quality experiences, maximizing your time and investment. We’ve spent several weeks immersing ourselves in Oaxaca’s vibrant vegan scene, sampling every vegan-friendly restaurant we could locate, attending classes, and meeting local chefs. Our hands-on approach ensures you experience only the best and most authentic foods, cutting through all the noise and avoiding the pitfalls of unreliable online reviews. While we can say that our process to explore the vegan scene in Oaxaca was extremely fun and rewarding, as well as offering a few interesting stories of the restaurants that didn’t go so well, it also allows us the confidence that what we are offering to you is the best experience that we can provide, and that is a really good feeling. Explore with us a seamless and enjoyable journey through Oaxaca’s vegan culinary landscape and discover with us all it has to offer!
In Conclusion
Whether you’re savoring a rich mole or enjoying a hearty tlayuda, Oaxaca embraces its rich agricultural legacy while integrating contemporary vegan practices, illustrating how ancient food traditions can seamlessly blend with modern dietary preference. This makes it a fascinating place for those interested in both traditional and vegan cuisines, making it a perfect destination for your next vacation!
