Mexican Made Easy Season 3 Episode 3 Day of the Dead

In season 3 episode 3 of Mexican Made Easy, host Marcela Valladolid celebrates Day of the Dead by preparing traditional dishes to honor the loved ones who have passed away. The episode begins with Marcela explaining the history and significance of Day of the Dead, emphasizing that it is not a mournful occasion but rather a joyous celebration of life and remembrance.

Marcela begins by preparing Pan de Muerto, a sweet bread that is a staple of the holiday. She explains the symbolism behind the bread, which is shaped like a skull and decorated with bone-like pieces of dough. Marcela demonstrates how to make the bread from scratch, using ingredients such as yeast, flour, sugar, and eggs. She notes that the recipe can be customized with different flavors and spices, depending on personal preference.

Next, Marcela prepares tamales, which are a traditional Mexican dish often served on Day of the Dead. She shows viewers how to make the masa (dough) from scratch, which is then filled with various ingredients such as pork, chicken, or vegetables. Marcela emphasizes the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to properly wrap the tamales in corn husks to ensure they cook evenly.

For the main course, Marcela prepares Calabaza en Tacha, a slow-cooked dish that features pumpkin pieces simmered in a syrup made from piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar) and spices such as cinnamon and cloves. She explains that the dish is often served during Day of the Dead because pumpkin is a symbol of the afterlife, and the sweet syrup represents the joy that the deceased bring to the living.

Finally, Marcela ends the episode with a festive cocktail, the Paloma de Mezcal. She explains that mezcal is a traditional Mexican liquor made from the agave plant, and it is often consumed during celebrations. Marcela combines mezcal with grapefruit soda and lime juice, garnishing the drink with a sugar rim and a sprig of rosemary.

Throughout the episode, Marcela shares personal anecdotes and memories of loved ones who have passed away, emphasizing the importance of keeping their memory alive and celebrating their lives. She also emphasizes the importance of incorporating tradition into modern life, explaining that Day of the Dead is a perfect example of how ancient customs can still be relevant today.

Overall, season 3 episode 3 of Mexican Made Easy is a touching and educational tribute to a beloved Mexican holiday. Marcela's warm and charismatic personality shines through as she guides viewers through the recipes and shares her personal experiences, making this episode both entertaining and informative.