History and Tradition of Tostadas Vaqueras in Guadalupe, Zacatecas

The History and Popularity of Tostadas in Guadalupe, Zacatecas

Tostadas are a beloved Mexican dish that have been popular for centuries. In the city of Guadalupe in the state of Zacatecas, tostadas hold a special significance and are considered a local specialty. Guadalupe is located just east of the capital city of Zacatecas and has a population of around 150,000 residents. This city is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and vibrant culture. But it's the delicious tostadas that really put Guadalupe on the map.

What are Tostadas?

Tostadas are a type of Mexican antojito, which translates to "little cravings." They are made by taking a flat, crispy corn tortilla and topping it with various ingredients like refried beans, lettuce, cheese, meat, and salsa. The tortilla acts as an edible plate that provides a crunchy base for all the tasty toppings.

There are many variations of tostadas throughout Mexico. In Guadalupe, they have become specialized into a version known as tostadas vaqueras. This name means "cowboy tostadas" in Spanish, due to their origins as a favorite food of ranchers and cowboys in the Zacatecas countryside.

Origins of Tostadas Vaqueras

Tostadas vaqueras can be traced back over 200 years to the late 18th century. This was when cattle ranching started thriving in the rural areas surrounding Guadalupe. Ranch hands worked long days herding livestock and needed a hearty, portable meal that was easy to carry while on horseback. The tostada was the perfect solution.

The corn tortilla base provided carbohydrates for energy while the beans and meat offered protein to keep the cowboys satiated. Salsa added a spicy kick of flavor. Since all the ingredients were stacked neatly on top of the tortilla, the tostadas were tidy and could be eaten without utensils.

As cattle ranching grew over the next centuries, so did the popularity of tostadas vaqueras. They became a standard lunchtime meal for ranchers and field workers throughout the countryside. The dish started spreading from rural areas into cities and towns across Zacatecas, especially in Guadalupe where ranching remained an important industry.

Traditional Ingredients & Preparation

Authentic tostadas vaqueras from Guadalupe are made with simple, hearty ingredients that can withstand the pressures of ranch life. Here are some of the essential components:

• Corn tortillas - The base is always a thick, crispy corn tortilla fried in oil. Flour tortillas will not suffice!
• Refried beans - Slow-cooked pinto beans are mashed and fried with lard for a smooth, creamy layer.
• Meat - Beef is traditional, often thin steaks or milanesa. However, pork, chicken, or chorizo can also be used.
• Queso fresco - Crumbled fresh cheese adds a salty, milky flavor.
• Salsa - The tostadas are topped with a tangy salsa verde or roasted salsa roja.
• Onions and cilantro - Diced raw white onion and roughly chopped cilantro add freshness.

To assemble a tostada vaquera, the tortilla is first fried until hard and brittle. After draining off excess oil, a layer of mashed beans is spread over the surface. Shredded meat is added next, followed by crumbled cheese, onions, cilantro, and finally a generous scoop of salsa on top.

Popularity of Tostadas Vaqueras

Over the generations, tostadas vaqueras from Guadalupe have continued to grow in popularity for several reasons:

• They offer a hearty, satisfying meal full of protein, carbs, and flavor.
• The crispy tortilla base provides an enticing contrast to the soft, juicy fillings.
• Traditional ingredients like beans, cheese, and salsa create comforting and authentic Mexican flavors.
• As a handheld food, they are convenient to eat on-the-go.
• Both inexpensive and filling, they appeal to people from all income levels.
• Their ranch origins make them feel down-to-earth and humble.

For these reasons, tostadas vaqueras remain a cherished staple in the state of Zacatecas and the city of Guadalupe. Locals eat them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack on any average day. Their beloved status has resulted in festivals, competitions, and restaurants dedicated to perfecting and promoting the dish.

Local Establishments for Authentic Tostadas Vaqueras

When visiting Guadalupe, there are a few key establishments where you can sample excellent traditional tostadas vaqueras:

• Tostadas la Guadalupana - This popular café near the town center proudly serves classic tostadas with all the fixings. Get them "para llevar" (to-go) just like the ranchers used to.
• El Rancho Grande - For sit-down service and modern takes on the tostada, visit this restaurant with rustic ranch decor. They have excellent beans made from old family recipes.
• Mercado Municipal - The lively municipal market has several food stalls that all sell delicious tostadas vaqueras using traditional cooking methods. It's an authentic experience!
• Street vendors - For the most genuine tostadas, look for street carts near the main plaza selling them wrapped in paper for a perfect on-the-go snack.

Tostadas Vaqueras Festivals and Competitions

The pride that Guadalupe residents have in their local tostadas vaqueras is on full display at food festivals held throughout the year:

• The annual Feria Nacional de la Tostada each March is a huge celebration with music, rides, games, and of course, tons of tostadas from all the top restaurants and food stalls in town.
• There is a competition for who can make the city's best tostada vaquera during the Festival Cultural de Zacatecas in May. The winning chef is awarded a certificate and city-wide fame.
• In December, there is the Concurso Municipal de la Tostada where amateurs and professional chefs alike enter their recipes. Judges evaluate each tostada based on criteria like flavor, presentation, and authenticity.

These annual events draw tourists from across Mexico who get to sample all styles of tostadas vaqueras. They experience firsthand why this iconic antojito remains so beloved in Guadalupe and the state of Zacatecas after generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tostadas Vaqueras from Guadalupe

Tostadas vaqueras have become so intrinsically linked to the identity of Guadalupe that residents are eager to share their knowledge about this local specialty. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about these traditional Mexican tostadas:

Why are they called vaqueras or "cowboy" style?

The vaquera name refers to the origins of this dish as the favorite lunch food for cattle ranchers and cowboys working on ranches surrounding Guadalupe back in the 18th and 19th centuries. The portability and heartiness of tostadas made them the perfect meal for men out on the range herding livestock all day.

Are they spicy?

It depends on the type of salsa used on top. Some salsas served with Guadalupe-style tostadas pack quite a punch! But others are more mild and sweet. Most restaurants will allow you to specify your preferred spice level.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Yes, it is easy to order tostadas vaqueras without meat in Guadalupe. Simply ask for "sin carne" to have your tostada prepared vegetarian-style. The beans, cheese, salsa, and crispy tortilla base still make for delicious meatless meal.

What type of tortilla is best?

Custom dictates a thick, crispy corn tortilla. Flour tortillas are never used in traditional tostadas vaqueras. The corn shell must be able to stand up to all the hearty toppings and hold its crunch. Street vendors in Guadalupe pride themselves on their perfectly fried corn tortillas.

Should I eat them with a fork and knife?

Tostadas are traditionally picked up and eaten out-of-hand without utensils, just as the ranchers used to do. But restaurants in Guadalupe will provide knives and forks if you prefer to eat them this way. Part of the fun is getting to hold this tasty Mexican snack in your hands.

Where can I learn to make them at home?

Many restaurants in Guadalupe offer classes on preparing authentic tostadas vaqueras. El Rancho Grande has a "Tostada 101" cooking class that teaches you all the local tricks. The municipal market also offers occasional workshops for tourists wanting to master the techniques.

Trying your hand at making tostadas vaqueras is a fun way to bring a taste of Guadalupe back home with you. Though getting them fresh from a local chef is still hard to beat!

FAQs

What are some variations on traditional tostadas vaqueras?

While the classic version has beans, meat, cheese, onions, cilantro, and salsa, some popular variations include: tostadas with mole sauce, tostadas with grilled cactus paddles (nopales), tostadas with chorizo sausage, and tostadas with shredded chicken (tinga).

Are tostadas vaqueras served at restaurants outside of Guadalupe?

Yes, you can find restaurants serving Guadalupe-style tostadas vaqueras in cities across Mexico. However, for the most authentic experience, it's best to visit Guadalupe where the locals have been perfecting these tostadas for generations.

What drinks pair well with tostadas vaqueras?

Ice cold cerveza (beer) is a popular beverage with tostadas vaqueras. Other excellent options are horchata, jamaica (hibiscus tea), tamarindo, and Mexican coke made with real cane sugar.

Do restaurants serve single tostadas or only full orders?

Most restaurants will allow you to order single tostadas vaqueras if you just want a quick snack instead of a whole meal. Simply specify "una tostada" rather than "una orden de tostadas."

What time of day are tostadas vaqueras traditionally eaten?

You can find tostadas vaqueras on the menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Guadalupe. Their portability makes them a favorite mid-day food, but locals enjoy them any time of day when craving a taste of home.