Updated September 20, 2021
Making Mole With Mayakoba’s Executive Chef
Since its opening, El Pueblito’s cooking classes at Mayakoba have garnered the reputation for being three hours of delicious fun. Being a Mole fanatic, (one of Mexico’s most complicated and flavorful dishes) I’ve always wanted to learn the recipe. So when Mole appeared on Chef Karla’s schedule, I didn’t hesitate to sign up!
Although the origin of this complex Mexican dish remains a mystery, there are legends dating back to Colonial times. One account gives nuns from a Puebla convent the credit. During an unexpected visit by the Archbishop, the nuns panicked as they couldn’t decide what to serve him. They began praying for inspiration. Consequently, an angel appeared, directing them to cut, chop, and combine the random inventory of items they had on hand. Nuts, chiles, bread, and even chocolate were sauteed, blended, and simmered. The Archbishop ate every last spoonful of the saucy sensation. The recipe became a national treasure in Mexico and is one of the country’s most distinguished dishes.
Pronounced MO-lay, the rich and slightly spicy sauce is typically served over chicken. In spite of its lengthy list of savory ingredients, chocolate is perhaps its most surprising component. Naturally being a fan of chocolate and Mexican cuisine, I had no doubt I’d love mole.
Class Is In Session
Upon entering the gorgeous, Mexican tiled industrial kitchen, we were greeted by two friendly assistants/bartenders. After directing us to our seats, we were offered a choice of welcome cocktail. The drink menu featured fresh maracuya (passion fruit), guanabana (soursop) or tamarindo (a brown tamarind pea pod) muddled with a splash of tequila. Each of the exotic elixirs was enticing but I opted for the guanabana, which did not disappoint.
Coupled with a good friend, we enjoyed meeting other students in the group from Monterrey, Poland, and the United States. (Beyond her native Spanish, Mayakoba’s executive chef Karla Enciso also leads classes in Italian, English, and French.)
This gourmet kitchen provided the perfect space for our class of nine. Each station was well organized with pre-portioned ingredients laid out for us. Of course the best part was that there was no cleanup and no pots to scrub at the end!
The Secrets To Mexico’s Most Sophisticated Sauce
We began by preparing the various dried chiles such as ancho and pasilla. First, we fried them in lard and then boiled them in chicken broth before being added to the blender. Next, pecans, pumpkin, and sesame seeds were sauteed with fragrant anise, cloves, and thyme. From there, the golden nuts joined the chiles in the blender with a touch of broth.
Hand-painted clay pots hosted sizzling green tomatillos, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and sliced green apples (a substitute for plantains). Afterwards, when the ingredients were browned, we blended them with a spoonful of chicken broth and a blackened tortilla. Chef Karla explained that blackened tortilla produces a similar effect as that of activated charcoal in aiding digestion.
Slow Cooking, Sipping And Savoring The Experience
After sautéing and blending, browning, and more blending, the result was three thick liquids. The smooth pastes were poured into one olla (pot) and stirred over a low gas flame for half an hour. Karla revealed the secret to a rich and savory mole was to slow cook it for as long as possible, and stir often. Some chefs have been known to stir their mole for 2 hours a day for almost a week prior to serving it. In doing so, the sauce is reduced and the delightful flavors develop to perfection.
Sipping our cocktails, we continuously stirred the deep-red colored mole sauce. At this time, the cacao, which we had ground midway through the class was sprinkled into the mix. During periodic tastings, a pinch of salt, a dash of sugar, and a second fistful of chocolate were added. Chef Karla shared that a great mole should acknowledge a perfect fusion of flavors. Thus, when the saltiness, the sweetness, and the spiciness are all detected, an immaculate blend has been created.
At Last, We Eat!
Once the aromatic sauce was ready, we added pre-cooked chicken breasts. Later, in yet another exquisite, decorative olla, we fried a cup of white rice. In addition to the water, a few sprigs of cilantro, peas, chopped carrots, and salt were added to enhance the steamed rice. Hence, a perfect accompaniment to the mole was ready.
Finally, the time came to plate our savory creations. Garnishes of cilantro and toasted sesame seeds completed the presentation. I couldn’t wait to taste the explosion of rich mole flavors! Chef Karla had selected a bottle of national red wine to pair with our meal. Our taste buds rose to a standing ovation with every bite. Not one person left even a single grain of rice on their plate.
Overall, the El Pueblito cooking class experience was 5 stars. And no, it wasn’t due to the tequila and wine served throughout the class. Our expert host was very engaging, encouraging us with practical instruction at every step. Because of her passion and capacity to teach, we left with the confidence that one day, we’d actually be able to pull off this sophisticated dish.
A Culinary Adventure Of Your Own
Weekly classes are offered within the picturesque El Pueblito village at Mayakoba. Chef Sandra, the new culinary host extraordinaire, is undeniably passionate about promoting Mexican cuisine. However, the notable culinary artist is open to leading themed classes upon request. Ever wondered about the secret behind a delectable Thai curry? Would you like to try you hand at rolling your own pasta dough for a hearty Italian dish? She is all for celebrating culinary curiosity and sharing her expertise.
For a schedule of upcoming classes or to reserve your spot you can contact El Pueblito through their Facebook page. As a guest of Bric Vacation Rentals, your designated ambassador is happy to assist in booking one of these highly entertaining and rewarding experiences. Salud!
Updated May 17, 2024
Besides Christmas, summer is the most highly anticipated season of the year! Longer days mean you have more time to spend outdoors barbecuing, having drinks on the patio, and relishing the warm summer air.
As the days heat up, we are inclined to head towards water. Kids crowd around sprinklers at spray parks and boats are launched into lakes in assembly line fashion.
Fortunately, if you have booked your summer vacation in Playa del Carmen, there is plenty of outdoor fun to be had. Being on the water is an integral part of the lifestyle in this seaside community. If you want to stay cool, just go…well in any direction in the Riviera Maya. You’re bound to discover an alluring body of water compelling you to dive in. The following is a list of top ten things to do near Playa del Carmen for summertime fun.
1. Swim with Whale Sharks
I know what you’re thinking— sharks? Really? But hear me out. This is not an extreme sport just for loco daredevils with nine lives. People of all ages have surreal encounters with these mellow sea giants every year. In fact, my three kiddos (aged 10, 8 and 7 at the time) still vote it as one of their most memorable day trips since living in Mexico.
During the summer months, the whale sharks take a pause on their migration route. Chilling here for 3 and a half months, they spend their time near the islands of Isla Mujeres and Holbox. Luckily, the intimidatingly massive fish prefer the taste of plankton over humans. They come to the area where their food source is plentiful. For the most part, they don’t seem to mind that people tag along for a surreal underwater experience.
Note: This excursion can easily be done in one full day from Playa del Carmen. Tours are offered from the end of May to the beginning of September.
2. Rio Secreto
This TripAdvisor Hall of Famer receives rave reviews for being a one-of-a-kind experience in the Riviera Maya. Only 10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, the nature reserve and eco-park boasts a series of caves and natural limestone pools. These turquoise marvels are fed by the largest underground river system on the planet.
As a bona fide explorer (with helmet headlamp and all), you will navigate through waist-deep water and dimly lit pathways leading to cenotes.These crystalline pools were once considered sacred by the ancient Maya. Sacrificial artifacts dating back 10000 years are still being discovered to this day.
One of the many things we love about Rio Secreto is the company’s dedication to the environment. All of the guides are passionate and educated in the science behind this natural phenomenon. That is to say, they are committed to keeping you safe, fascinated and entertained.
Best of all, the tour groups are small giving you the sense that you have the whole park to yourself. All you need to bring is your swimsuit; life jackets, wetsuits, towels, and lunch are provided. This unforgettable trip beneath the surface of the earth really does seem out of this world.
Note: Recommended for ages 4 and up.
3. Yoga Paddle Board With Aloha
Can you imagine a better opportunity to connect to nature than paddling towards the sun at dawn? Picture it – you’re on the paddle board, gliding into the fiery orange horizon. This sunrise peace is so far from usually hectic morning routines. Forget prepping for work, scarfing down a bowl of oatmeal, and rushing out the door to sit in traffic on your commute.
Instead, savor the tranquility as you witness a pelican nearby target a school of fish. Just as he nose dives into the water, you look up to see the sun emerge from behind a puff of white clouds.
For certain, there are few things that nourish the soul more than a splendid sunrise paddle. Playa del Carmen based company Aloha Paddle Club has been around for over a decade. Aloha offers Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Surfing, along with SUP Yoga classes at sea and as well as at local cenotes. Their business headquarters is located on the powdery soft sand at Fusion Beach on Calle 6. (Talk about a hard day at the office!)
Sander, the founder of Aloha and his team, lead daily one-hour tours just off the shores of Playa del Carmen. On superior weather days, a two-hour paddle session to a nearby reef is available. On the weekends, with a group of 4 or more, Aloha offers a Tulum SUP Yoga tour which lasts about 6 hours with a stopover for authentic Mexican tacos in Puerto Aventuras.
Note: There is no minimum age requirement as younger children can sit on the board with an adult.
4. Xplor Park
This nature park, located under 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen, offers a full-day itinerary of various activities. You’ll soar like an eagle above the dense jungle on death-defying (ok, not really, but still intense) zip lines. At the steering wheel of your amphibious vehicle, you’ll cruise over forest trails and through stunning caverns. Furthermore, you’ll paddle past centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites on a raft along the vivid, blue-green subterranean river.
There are dozens of picture-worthy points throughout the vast park where you can practice your photography skills. You’ll come across waterfalls, extraordinary rock formations, and their exhilarating new slide attraction, the Toboganxote. Alternatively, there are hammocks if you need a short break from the non-stop adventure.
A minimum age of 5 years is required and children must be at least 3 and a half feet tall to be permitted on the zip lines. The all-inclusive park provides a buffet and non-alcoholic beverages.
Tip: Purchase your tickets online 21 days in advance to receive a 15% discount.
5. Rent A Boat And Spend The Day In ‘Heaven’
Just off the coast of Cozumel is a little piece of Mexican Caribbean heaven appropriately named ‘El Cielo’. This paradise is only accessible by boat and the clarity of the aqua blue water is shocking. It is so clear that you can see stingrays 50 meters away gliding along the seafloor.
While dipping in the breathtaking bay, the odds are good that you’ll have an up-close-and-personal encounter with these graceful creatures. Along with the non-threatening stingrays, there are starfish, grouper, angelfish and sea turtles in the area. Not only is The pristine water is as translucent as a backyard pool. Similarly, the depth is quite shallow. Only 3 to 4 feet deep, it’s perfect for all ages and is ideal for snorkeling.
The tours typically last 4 hours and usually include snorkeling equipment, lunch, alcoholic beverages, pop and water. As well, the includes two stops, one to explore the vibrant Mesoamerican Reef and the second is El Cielo. We recommend Sergio’s team from Aquatic Sports and Expeditions or cozumel-tours.net. This place is what Caribbean dreams are made of and well worth the trip over to the island!
6. Cenote and Frozen Margaritas in Akumal
With the heat in Playa del Carmen at its maximum strength from June to September, you’ll need a solid list of cool down methods. As it happens, freshwater cenotes, fed by a chilly subterranean river system, abound in the region. In fact, there is an easily accessible mini cenote route 20 minutes south of the city along the 307 highway. Choose from 3 unique cenotes – Jardin del Eden, Cristalino or Azul.
In contrast to some resort pools which can feel like a warm bath come mid-August, cenote waters remain cool throughout the summer. The depth in these cenotes can range from 12 to 120 meters and are perfect for divers to explore the mystical underwater caves. However, if you’re not the Jacques Cousteau type, there are other exciting activities for every age. For example, you’ll have a blast snorkeling or jumping from the modest limestone ledges into the pristine ponds below. There are bathrooms, life jackets, snorkel rentals and picnic areas. Between the cost of a Colectivo (shared van taxi) and the entrance fee, you can expect to pay $1to $200 to $250Mxn per person or $12 – $15.00Usd.
Just five minutes south of the cenote strip is the quaint fishing village of Akumal. Meaning ‘The Place of the Turtles’ in Maya, Akumal is a superb spot for swimming with sea turtles. The barrier reef system, which sits a few hundred yards from the shore, protects the bay, calming the picture-perfect Caribbean waters.
There is a main dive shop where you can rent snorkel equipment or book fishing and diving tours. Along the white-sand coastline, a few restaurants present front-row seating to the captivating view.
After a day of cliff jumping, snorkeling and swimming with the turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish in Akumal Bay, you’ll be ready to sit back and relax. Find casual bites and cold beverages at one of the beachside restaurants. Take a moment to watch the fishing boats bob on the bay. Witness the beauty of the setting sun’s rays piercing through the palms as you sip on your refreshing cocktail. If you haven’t fallen in love with the Riviera Maya yet, Akumal will definitely capture a piece of your heart.
7. See Dolphins and Flamingos on Holbox Island
Step aside Tulum, Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is the latest Quintana Roo gem to be hailed by savvy travelers as Mexico’s best-kept secret. Visitors love the laid-back charm and tranquility of this rustic wonderland. Cars are a rare sighting. Instead, golf carts outfitted with heavy duty all-terrain tires taxi people to and fro. However, the majority of boutique-style hotels, restaurants and main boat dock are walking distance to the ferry terminal.
Just an hour from Playa del Carmen plus a 20-minute ferry ride to the island, Holbox offers an escape from the stressors of everyday life. The island is surrounded by the Yum Balam Reserve. Boat tours are available throughout the year, but summer is our favorite time to visit.
In the offseason, tour companies take you on a 3-hour journey, which includes a stopover at Isla Pasion (a gathering spot for dozens of migratory and local birds) as well as a visit to a cenote. It seems as though you’ve stepped into your own version of the Blue Lagoon movie. But instead of foraging for your own food, a friendly local family serves fresh coconuts and snacks at their little shop.
From the end of May to the beginning of September, the island’s most revered guests, the whale sharks, are in town. On this tour, you’ll spend the day sailing along the waters of the reserve. On the way to the whale sharks, you’ll spot turtles, dolphins and sailfins, also known as flying fish. One of the highlights is an hour visit at a deserted island paradise. Here, you can wade through waist-deep crystal clear water that’ll make your jaw drop. Meanwhile, the captain prepares the most divine ceviche (cured fish) dish on this side of the peninsula. Finally, at the end of the day, you’ll reach the final point of interest. From a safe distance, you’ll coast near a sandbar, covered with hundreds of bright pink flamingos. In all honesty, it is almost as magnificent a sight as the whalesharks.
Surprisingly, for a small community, there is a substantial amount of eateries on the sleepy island. From lobster pizza to fresh catches of the day to upscale international cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Since it’s such a short distance from Playa del Carmen, we recommend a day or an overnight trip to this enchanting, little nature refuge. Holbox provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
8. Find Bliss at a Beach Club
Arguably the best summertime activity, a beach day is a hit whether you’re in the mood for fun or relaxation. Even the little ones love the sand (although eating it is not recommended.) If lounging on a silky soft beach is your happy place, then you will find utopia in the Riviera Maya.
From Maroma Beach to the north, Lido Beach Club in Playa del Carmen and La Zebra Tulum to the south, there is a bounty of stunning beaches. Speaking of dreamy beaches, Xpu Ha (20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen) was once chosen for one of Corona’s famous beer ads.
An entrance fee of $75 Mxn per person gives you a bracelet and access to the Xpu Ha. Before you know it, you’ll have your toes in the sand and a margarita in your hand. With your bracelet, you can use that cost towards your food and beverage consumption at La Playa Restaurant Xpu Ha. Create your own Caribbean-inspired commercial with that turquoise seascape backdrop that daydreams are made of.
For sure, there is no shortage of breathtaking beaches to choose from near Playa del Carmen. Bring your snorkel gear and explore the reefs just off the shore in Puerto Morelos. Strike up a game of volleyball on Maroma’s abundant coastline. Strut your beach style at Mamitas in the heart of Playa del Carmen, where Djs spin all day and fashionistas gather. Find a daybed and chill along with a bottle of your favorite bubbly on the renowned beaches of Tulum. If beach bliss is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong when you vacation in Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
9. Cruise the Caribbean on a Catamaran
Soak up the sun, splash in the sea, and experience the quintessential Mexican Caribbean vibe on board a catamaran for the day. Set sail to secret locations throughout the Riviera Maya for snorkeling, fishing, and swimming alongside turtles and stingrays. In addition to pit stops at remarkable gems, you and your crew will love the lively atmosphere while sailing the seas. While on deck, you will be treated to music, regional snacks such as ceviche and guacamole, as well as cool cocktails.
Reputable companies like Riviera Elite offer private yacht and catamaran tours from Puerto Aventuras, just 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. Indeed, their 3 to 8 hour expeditions are magical as their services have garnered them TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice Awards and #1 ratings in the Riviera Maya. Their chartered tours include snorkeling the MesoAmerican Reef or viewing the ancient city of Tulum from the crystal clear waters below. Without a doubt, this rousing day on the water will be an adventure to remember!
10. Hydrate and Stay Cool at La Flor de Michoacan
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, try to hydrate with more than cervezas and tequila. In central Playa del Carmen (Constituyentes and 30th Avenue across from Mega Soriana superstore) is the authentic Mexican fresh juice and ice cream shop, La Flor de Michoacan. These ice creameries are as popular with Mexicans as Starbucks is with Americans. In most cities you can find one on nearly every corner.
What makes these delicious Mexican popsicles so special is that they are made with fresh exotic fruits like Mamey, Soursop and Dragonfruit. We suggest the frozen Paleta (on the stick) de Coco (coconut), Nuez (creamy walnut) or Cajeta (rich caramel-flavored goat-milk.)
Not only does La Flor de Michoacan sell fantastic ice creams but their aguas frescas (fruits and vegetables blended with water) are a perfect way to stay hydrated. Try the limon con pepino (cucumber and lime), the Sandia (watermelon) or the horchata (sweetened milky rice water with cinnamon) which is a dessert in itself!
Here are just a few of the many ways to cool off when the sun strikes in Playa del Carmen. If you see an activity that interests you and you require further information, please do not hesitate to call the Bric Vacation Rental office at +52(984) 803-3191 or WhatsApp +52 (984) 134-3131. One of our friendly representatives will be happy to help you with the details.