Introduction to Mixiotes
Mixiotes is a traditional Mexican dish with a rich history that spans over 700 years. It originated from La Huasteca cuisine and is a staple in Mexican culture. The dish is made with meat, such as chicken, pork, lamb, or goat, cooked in a red broth with ancient spices and wrapped in a piece of string or parchment paper. Martina De la Guti, the owner of Santa Maria Artisan Kitchen, learned the recipe for mixiotes from her grandmother and nanny, and now serves it at her catering business in Grapevine.
The History and Cultural Significance of Mixiotes
Mixiotes has a long history that dates back to the Aztecs, who ate the dish over 700 years ago. The name "mixiotes" comes from the maguey leaf, which is used to wrap the dish. The maguey leaf is a type of agave that is harvested, dried, and then moistened to make it pliable. The leaf is then used to wrap the meat and spices, creating a parcel that is steamed for about two hours. The dish is traditionally served at special occasions, such as weddings and celebrations, and is also commonly eaten on weekends in tacos.
Preparing Mixiotes
The process of preparing mixiotes is labor-intensive and requires several ingredients, including guajillo chili, ancho chili, morita chili, onion, garlic, cloves, pepper, oregano, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and pepper. The ingredients are combined to make a sauce or marinade that is used to coat the meat. Avocado leaves are also added to give the dish a sweet flavor and a slightly bitter touch. Potatoes or nopales can be added to complement the dish. The mixture is then wrapped in parchment paper or the maguey leaf and steamed for about two hours.
Martina De la Guti, the owner of Santa Maria Kitchen, poses with mixiotes, originally from the state of Hidalgo, she cooked at her home in Grapevine on Thursday, July 24, 2025. (Juan Figueroa/The Dallas Morning News/TNS)
The Importance of Mixiotes in Mexican Culture
Mixiotes is an important part of Mexican culture and is often served at special occasions. The dish is a staple in La Huasteca cuisine and is widely consumed in tacos on weekends. The tradition of making mixiotes has been passed down from generation to generation, and the dish is often made with love and care. Martina De la Guti’s grandmother used to make mixiotes to thank doctors who helped save her grandfather’s life, and the tradition was passed down to her mother.
Where to Find Mixiotes
Mixiotes is on the menu at Santa Maria Artisan Kitchen, a catering business located in Grapevine. The business is dedicated to serving authentic Mexican cuisine, and mixiotes is one of the traditional dishes that they offer. If you’re interested in trying mixiotes, you can contact Santa Maria Artisan Kitchen to learn more about their menu and services.
Conclusion
Mixiotes is a traditional Mexican dish with a rich history and cultural significance. The dish is made with meat, spices, and ancient ingredients, and is wrapped in a piece of string or parchment paper. Mixiotes is an important part of Mexican culture and is often served at special occasions. If you’re interested in trying mixiotes, you can find it on the menu at Santa Maria Artisan Kitchen in Grapevine.
FAQs
Q: What is mixiotes?
A: Mixiotes is a traditional Mexican dish made with meat, spices, and ancient ingredients, wrapped in a piece of string or parchment paper.
Q: Where did mixiotes originate from?
A: Mixiotes originated from La Huasteca cuisine in Mexico.
Q: What is the history of mixiotes?
A: Mixiotes has a long history that dates back to the Aztecs, who ate the dish over 700 years ago.
Q: How is mixiotes prepared?
A: Mixiotes is prepared by wrapping meat and spices in parchment paper or the maguey leaf and steaming it for about two hours.
Q: Where can I find mixiotes?
A: Mixiotes is on the menu at Santa Maria Artisan Kitchen, a catering business located in Grapevine.
