Ceremonial tortillas, a tradition that survives the passage of time

October 16, 2019 at 13:03 p.m.


Ceremonial tortillas, a tradition that survives the passage of time


Tortillas are a fundamental part of the national identity. However, there are some that stand out for their beauty and meaning, such as the ceremonial tortillas.

En Guanajuato, to be more precise in Comonfort and San Miguel de Allende, the ñañús preserve this tradition.

It consists of printing a stamp on them, which mostly have drawings with flora or fauna of the region.

The pigment is made from a mixture of muicle (a medicinal plant), lemon juice, and baking soda.

What results in different colors depending on the family that prepares it.

Meanwhile, the stamps are made of wood, also this element contains deep meaning as it is passed down from generation to generation.

Currently, different artisans sell them to locals and tourists, but the former are highly valued.

deep meaning 

 

The history of ceremonial tortillas has deep roots, on the one hand the prehispanic tradition and on the other, elements added with the arrival of the Catolic religion.

In them is part of the otomi cosmogony, where the link with nature was essential.

Animals, plants and rocks were highly valued. And what about the corn? Which was considered a wise and sacred seed.

Painting the tortillas implied a thank you to the land for the food provided.

Each family has in its seal part of its own history and significant elements in it.

The designs vary, but in general they all coincide in their respect and gratitude for their surroundings.

Later they were dedicated to the saints that were commemorated or that are the reason for some festivity.

This intimate relationship between people, nature and food is deeply symbolic.

Ceremonial tortillas survive time and seem to be around for much longer.

 

You may also like:

The rich cuisine of Mexico during the time of Independence

El petate: Mexican object of tradition and history that is extinguished