The marquesote is a type of bread typical of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Oaxaca, traditionally prepared for the Day of the Dead dates. Learn all about this exquisite sample of Mexican bakery below.
It is likely that the first thing that comes to mind for most Mexicans when we hear the words “dead bread” be the cakes provided with a cross that resemble tears. However, the world of biscuits for the dead in the country is much broader than that, such is the case of marquesoteoriginally from Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca.
It’s about a square breadbut more frequently rectangularmade of rice flour (although the original recipe seems to be with wheat flour), egg, sugar, baking powder, lemon juice and a garnish with bitumen with which they make a fretwork, or in season Day of the Deadthe name of the deceased is put to receive in the offering.
The Marquis and his relationship with Hernán Cortés
The marquesote has been made for at least three centuriesaccording to the residents of Isthmus of Tehuantepec. His name is after him conqueror Hernán Cortéswho was known as the great marquis of the region.
Its consumption before and during the Day of the Dead (but also during much of the year) is almost a ritual, since it is usually eaten accompanied by traditional Oaxacan chocolate, that is, the one that has chocolate, cocoa, water and sugar. Once with a cup of this delicious drink, the marquesote splits and chopea in the chocolate water, definitely a delight.
The Marquesote of Day of the Dead, is used for other parties
And although, in fact, the marquesote abounds in the Oaxacan offerings the reality is also that it can be found at weddings, fifteen years, birthdays and traditional celebrations of the region, since everyone likes it for having a soft crumb, similar to that of the so-called “little boxes” that are made in Warriorwhich by the way are also made with rice flour.
Undoubtedly, the marquesote is one of the breads that Oaxacans who are outside their homeland yearn for the most, since they also have an emotional value. For example: a family member can give marquesote to invite another to a festivity, so not attending the event after receiving an invitation with this bread is taken as an offense.
The marquesote recipe
On your next trip to Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, do not forget to look for a marquesote bread to eat accompanied by a chocolate or a coffee, which is how it is usually consumed in various families. But if you do not plan to go to that region soon, in Unknown Mexico we share the recipe for this delicacy in the following link: “Recipe for the marquesote, typical bread from Oaxaca“.