Explore the Time-Tested Dishes of Guadalajara, Mexico

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Birria, a slow-cooked goat meat dish, stands out as a shining star in Jalisco's culinary traditions. Its roots trace back to the time when goats were first brought to Mexico from Spain. Interestingly, the finicky Spaniards didn't eat goat meat, deeming it too tough. But the clever locals found a way to cook it so well that this dish has been a staple on every family's table for centuries.

Following the original recipe, the meat is simmered on low heat with spices and then paired with a hot consommé made from broth and tomatoes. Fresh corn tortillas and beans topped with melted local Asadero cheese also go well with this treat.

Birria can be enjoyed as tacos or as a stew, and in some recipes, lamb or beef is used instead of goat. You should definitely try this iconic dish of the region.

One of the best places to enjoy birria is the vibrant Birriería las 9 Esquinas, where Mexican colors adorn the walls and delicious dishes abound. This spot is not only known for its unique decor but also has countless rave reviews online. Their birria, made with tender goat meat using a time-honored recipe, will amaze you with its flavorful broth and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, leaving every visitor in pure bliss.

As you scan the menu, your eyes will be drawn to golden and crispy tacos and quesadillas, making it tough to decide what to try first. With so many tempting options, you'll probably want to sample everything, but alas, that might require multiple visits.

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Menudo is a traditional Mexican soup made from cow's stomach or tripe. This dish has an interesting origin story. During the Viceroyalty era, when the Spaniards refused to sell meat to indigenous people, they had to come up with an alternative recipe, and that's how menudo became a popular choice in the region.

In the Jalisco style of preparing menudo, they use guajillo chili, garlic, chopped onions, cumin, oregano, and cilantro, which add a delightful flavor. It is served with hot tortillas, lime, and various sauces to enhance the taste.

This hearty soup is typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a remedy for hangovers. To truly savor menudo, it's all about discovering the right spot to try it, and we're about to introduce you to just that one.

As is often the case, creating delightful food doesn't require looking like a fancy restaurant. And Super Menudería Cano with a short and simple menu proves just that, offering some of the best menudo in town. Despite the limited choices, they have 3 portion sizes to choose from, along with a variety of tacos, quesadillas, and of course, ubiquitous pozole.

While the decor and interior may not be a priority here, the quality and taste of the dishes can easily surpass some top-notch restaurants. From morning till night, this place is bustling with locals and tourists alike, drawn in by recommendations and thousands of positive reviews from web platforms.

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In Guadalajara, there is a special local cheese known as Adobera. This soft, yellow product made from cow's milk takes its name from the shape of an unburnt brick.

Adobera's texture makes it perfect for crumbling, grating, and melting, which is why it's a top choice for quesadillas – a beloved Mexican snack of two toasted tortillas with a stuffing inside. The magic lies in the filling staying intact, held together by melted Adobera, making each bite a delight.

While Mexico has many famous cheeses, such as Queso Fresco and Oaxaca, when you are in Jalisco, make sure to try Adobera cheese – it's definitely worth splurging on it.

For over 4 decades, Kamilos 333 has been a cherished spot in the bustling neighborhood of Santa-Teresita. It's like stepping back in time to the rustic Jalisco of yesteryears, with its charming decor and hand-painted dishes showcasing the lives of the indigenous people.

Their signature dish is carne en su jugo – a 100% Guadalajara specialty that looks like a flavorful meat stew. You’d better try it with quesadillas filled with Adobera cheese, or indulge in juicy karnita and mouthwatering queso fundido with chorizo. At Kamilos 333, you'll experience the authentic essence of old Guadalajara while treating your taste buds to delightful local recipes.

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Jericalla, a beloved traditional dessert from Guadalajara, is like a delightful version of flan with a special Jalisco twist. Served in individual portions, it boasts a creamy, custard-like texture akin to crème brûlée, but without sugar or caramel topping.

Legend has it that jericalla was created by a clever nanny in a nursery. Trying to please her little picky eaters, she added some sugar to the milk and egg mixture. However, she accidentally left the dessert in the oven for too long, resulting in a burnt top. Surprisingly, the kids loved it, and the signature burnt appearance became the hallmark of this scrumptious treat.

In the historic center, close to the majestic Guadalajara Cathedral, you'll come across with the attention-grabbing El Pilón de Los Arrieros. Here, for an impressive 33 years, Chef Lupita Figueroa has been delighting the city's visitors with her dishes, showcasing the traditional recipes of the Jalisco region.

Their menu is a treasure trove of Mexico's most beloved recipes, including mole, barbacoa, and chamorro, each accompanied by a captivating description of its history and unique taste. And when it comes to local desserts, you can't go wrong with their flan and jericalla – two treats that you'll now be able to distinguish and appreciate.

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In Mexico, a standout dish for any celebration is queso fundido, which consists of chunks of chorizo, veggies, and gooey, melted cheese. What makes it extra special is that it's often prepared right at your table, with a bit of flambé action, and then served piping hot in small casseroles.

Though its exact origin remains a mystery, queso fundido is strongly associated with the rustic charm of Mexican ranch culture. It is said that this treat was originally cooked over open fire, which explains its traditional cast iron cookware. The best part about queso fundido is its versatility – each recipe boasts a unique combination of ingredients. In Jalisco, for instance, they add a touch of oregano to give it a special regional flair.

La Chata de Guadalajara is one of the city's most renowned and oldest restaurants, with a rich history of over 70 years and generations of chefs and loyal patrons. Located in Zona Centro, it sits amidst all the iconic landmarks that you must explore on foot before treating yourself to its signature Jaliscian plate, consisting of a hefty piece of grilled chicken, veggie sopes, crispy flautas, and more.

The other highlights of the menu include the region's classic white pozole and irresistible queso fundido, both guaranteed to leave you satisfied and wanting more. And don't forget to save some space for dessert. You'll love fluffy jericalla paired with horchata (a traditional Mexican rice-based drink), or bionicos – delicious fruit bowls drizzled with a sweet, creamy mixture of yogurt, condensed milk, and Mexican crema, a true specialty of Guadalajara.

Indeed, Guadalajara holds many fascinating moments for both adventurers and foodies. If you visit Jalisco on vacation, let us know about any other must-try local dishes that we might have overlooked. We'd love to hear about your culinary adventures and discoveries.