Tortilla Class and Workshop in Mexico

Discover the Art of Making Mexican Tortillas in Mexico City

At $89.14 per person for about 1 hour 30 minutes, the Tortilla Class and Workshop in Mexico City offers an engaging deep dive into one of Mexico’s most essential culinary traditions. This mobile ticket experience starts at the vibrant Catita Pan y Café in the Narvarte Poniente neighborhood at 5:00 pm. It’s a hands-on opportunity to learn how to produce authentic, high-quality tortillas using traditional techniques under the guidance of skilled local experts.

What makes this workshop stand out is its focus on the nixtamal process, a key step in transforming dried corn kernels into nutritious tortillas. Participants actively grind heirloom corn on a metate, cook tortillas on a comal, and prepare their own salsa in a molcajete. With only 8 participants maximum, the class ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere suitable for home cooks or anyone curious about Mexican culinary heritage.

While the experience is rich in historical and cultural insights, it also emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients and traditional methods that many commercial tortillas lack. Notably, the tour stresses the nutritional benefits of handmade tortillas and raises awareness about native Mexican corn strains in danger of disappearing, making it much more than just a cooking class.

Key Points

• Hands-on tortilla making using traditional nixtamal techniques
• Learn about heirloom Mexican corn strains and their cultural significance
• Make salsa in a molcajete and cook tortillas on a comal
• Expert local guides lead the class, sharing stories and history
• Small group size of up to 8 ensures personalized instruction
• Includes a delicious quesadilla to enjoy after your cooking efforts

Starting Point at Catita Pan y Café in Mexico City

The workshop begins at Catita Pan y Café, located in the Benito Juárez district of Mexico City. The address, C. Dr. José María Vértiz 997, Narvarte Poniente, is close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. Travelers gather here at 5:00 pm where a knowledgeable local guide introduces the importance of Mexican corn and the threats faced by native heirloom strains.

This meeting point serves as a warm, inviting space where participants receive an engaging overview before moving into the hands-on activities. The class concludes back at the same location, making it simple to plan your evening after the experience.

Exploring the Nixtamal Process in Detail

The core of this workshop revolves around the nixtamal process, an age-old technique that involves soaking dried corn in an alkaline solution. Participants learn why this step is crucial for unlocking the corn’s nutritional potential and enhancing flavor.

Once the corn has been nixtamalized, you’ll grind the heirloom kernels on a metate, a traditional volcanic-rock grinder. This ancient method helps preserve the corn’s natural qualities and imparts authentic flavor. The resulting masa is then shaped into fresh tortillas that are cooked on a comal, a traditional Mexican griddle.

Making and Cooking Your Own Tortillas

After mastering the masa, participants hand-shape their tortillas and cook them directly on a comal. This process offers a tactile connection to Mexican culinary traditions, with the aroma of freshly cooked tortillas filling the air.

The freshly made tortillas are then transformed into delicious quesadillas, providing a satisfying culmination to the lesson. The focus on real, high-quality ingredients ensures that the tortillas are flavorful and nutritious, a stark contrast to mass-produced options.

Creating Salsa with a Molcajete

An integral part of the workshop involves making salsa in a molcajete, an ancient volcanic stone mortar and pestle. This traditional tool allows for manual grinding of ingredients, preserving the flavors and allowing participants to experience the true essence of Mexican salsa.

This part of the class not only adds a flavorful topping to your quesadilla but also deepens understanding of traditional Mexican cooking techniques. The finished salsa complements the tortillas and quesadilla perfectly, making the experience both educational and delicious.

The Significance of Mexican Corn and Its Preservation

The workshop emphasizes the cultural importance of Mexican corn, especially the indigenous strains that are at risk of extinction. Participants gain insight into the history of corn in Mexico and the efforts needed to save heirloom varieties.

This educational component underscores how traditional methods and quality ingredients impact the nutritional value of tortillas. The class aims to foster appreciation for genuine Mexican cuisine and encourage consumers to seek authentic handmade tortillas.

Small Group Learning and Expert Guidance

Led by Ariane and Clara, the class provides personalized instruction in a friendly environment. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and engaging teaching style, making complex techniques accessible for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

The small group size of up to 8 participants ensures ample opportunity for questions and hands-on practice, creating an intimate and rewarding learning experience.

Practical Details: Duration, Cost, and Cancellation

The entire experience lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it easy to fit into an evening schedule. At $89.14, the class offers excellent value considering the level of personalization, hands-on participation, and cultural insight provided.

Participants can enjoy snacks, including the quesadilla they prepare themselves. Since the booking is confirmed with a mobile ticket, it’s convenient to organize your plans. The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility in case of unforeseen changes.

Why This Workshop Is a Must-Do for Food Enthusiasts

This Tortilla Class and Workshop is ideal for home cooks interested in Mexican cuisine or anyone eager to explore the roots of one of Mexico’s most iconic foods. The experience provides valuable skills that can be used at home and deeper appreciation for Mexican culinary traditions.

The focus on authentic techniques, native ingredients, and cultural storytelling makes it more than just a cooking class; it’s a meaningful insight into Mexican food heritage. With glowing reviews praising the expert guides and the delicious results, it’s clear that this workshop delivers on both education and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, including beginners eager to learn traditional tortilla-making techniques.

Are ingredients provided?
Yes, all necessary ingredients for making tortillas, salsa, and quesadillas are included in the price.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Is the workshop physically demanding?
No, the activities involve kneading, grinding, and cooking, which are suitable for most people with average mobility.

Where do we meet for the class?
The meeting point is Catita Pan y Café, located at C. Dr. José María Vértiz 997, Narvarte Poniente in Mexico City.

How many people participate in each class?
The class is limited to a maximum of 8 participants for personalized attention.

What is the duration of the workshop?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

What’s included in the experience?
Participants receive hands-on instruction, snacks (including the quesadilla), and an introduction to Mexican corn and preservation efforts.

Is transportation arranged?
No, transportation is not included, but the meeting point is near public transit options.

Who leads the class?
The class is led by local culinary experts, Ariane and Clara, known for their engaging and informative teaching style.

Can I take home my tortillas and salsa?
The data does not specify if participants can take home leftovers, but they do get to enjoy their own freshly made quesadilla during the class.

This Tortilla Class and Workshop in Mexico City offers a rare chance to learn hands-on about traditional Mexican tortilla making, understand the cultural significance of heirloom corn, and enjoy delicious homemade food—all in a friendly, small-group setting.