Chiles en Nogada: A Once-a-Year Mexican Culinary Tradition

Among Mexico’s vibrant culinary scene, there’s one dish that you can only savor during a specific time of the year: Chiles en Nogada. This beloved typical dish is more than just food; it is a celebration of Mexican tradition, history, and independence. As September rolls around, bringing with it the spirit of Mexican Independence, kitchens across the country start preparing this time-honored masterpiece, filled with the flavors of Mexico. 

What is Chiles en Nogada? 

Chiles en Nogada is a unique and typical dish that captures the essence of Mexican gastronomy. At its core, it features a poblano pepper stuffed with a savory-sweet mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices. The star of the dish is the creamy nogada sauce, made with walnuts, cream, and a hint of sherry. To complete the presentation, the dish is crowned with bright red pomegranate seeds and fresh parsley, representing the colors of the Mexican flag. The blend of textures and flavors creates a symphony in every bite… earthy, sweet, and just the right touch of spice.

How Did Chiles en Nogada Come to Be? 

The history of Chiles en Nogada traces back to 1821, during the birth of the nation. It is said that this dish was created by nuns in Puebla to honor General Agustín de Iturbide, who played a key role in securing Mexico’s independence. The nuns wanted to present a dish that reflected the new country’s identity, using ingredients that were in season and symbolized the flavors of Mexico. The Chiles en Nogada recipe they crafted honored the nation’s newfound freedom, incorporating the colors of the flag and highlighting local produce. 

What Does Chiles en Nogada Celebrate? 

More than just a dish, Chiles en Nogada celebrates Mexican Independence and the rich cultural heritage of the country. Each component - chile, nogada, and garnish - represents pride, history, and the bountiful ingredients of the land. It’s a dish that reminds Mexicans of their roots and the bravery of those who fought for their freedom. The patriotic symbolism behind the dish makes it a fitting centerpiece for the Mexican Independence celebrations in September. 

Where to Enjoy Chiles en Nogada? 

At Marival Resorts in the Riviera Nayarit, we are thrilled to bring this Mexican tradition to our guests throughout September 2024. Our chefs have perfected the Chiles en Nogada recipe, offering you a taste of authentic Mexican gastronomy. In fact, we launched an exciting internal competition, where the chefs from our various resort restaurants competed to create the best version of this iconic dish. To discover the participating restaurants and their mouthwatering creations, make sure to follow Marival Resorts on our social media platforms.

Celebrate with Us 

Whether you’re visiting Nuevo Vallarta to stay at Marival Emotions or Marival Distinct, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the flavors of Mexico through Chiles en Nogada this September. Join us in celebrating Mexican Independence with this historical and delicious dish that’s only available once a year. 

And while you’re planning a trip to Nuevo Vallarta, don’t forget to take advantage of all the benefits of your Marival Access card, part of our loyalty program through Marival Resorts. With a Marival Access Program membership, you can get the lowest prices when booking your next All-Inclusive getaway at Marival Resorts. Plus, using your card with our shops, restaurants, and affiliated businesses in Nuevo Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta earns you points to redeem for exclusive benefits.