tomatotortillaMexican crema

On a Soup and a Book

It is partly because of a soup like this, that I want to write a cookbook.

A soup that makes me feel all warm inside when I spoon it into my mouth.

A soup that has the earthiness and simplicity that grounds me.

A soup that, aside from having a comforting base, has layers of surprising life and color and crunch.

A soup that makes me want to eat nothing else for an entire week.

A soup that speaks of centennial traditions and is passed down through generations recipes.

A soup that is a pleasure to think about, to write about, to talk about, to prepare and to savor.

It is mostly because I want to share a soup like this with you, dear friends, that I am jumping to write this cookbook.

So with great news to share: I will be working with the delightful Rux Martin, editor at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, to make this cookbook come to life.

In this book, I will write about -and tell you how to make- all of those foods that make me want to scream out of joy, along with the stories that revolve around them.

for tomato and bean soup-thumb-510x342-1527

So here you go, for this Fall season, which has already galloped in front of me as I was barely putting away my monsters’ bathing suits: The Sopa Tarasca. One of my favorite soups in the whole entire world.

As with many Mexican dishes, it has a base of tomato, onion and a bit of garlic.

Tarascan Soup 2
But it also has the addition of the prune like, exuberant flavor of the Ancho chile.

After those ingredients are cooked, pureed and seasoned, they are mixed with a bean puree

Tarascan Soup 3
and chicken broth…

Queso Fresco A1-thumb-510x342-1933
As if that earth shattering base wasn’t enough, this soup is garnished, to your liking with Queso Fresco

Tarascan Soup 5
Tortilla crisps.

Tarascan Soup 6
Ripe Mexican avocado chunks…

Tarascan Soup 7
And the tangy and salty notes from Mexican cream

Of course you can toss in some Chile crisps in there too…

Tarascan Soup 8
From the Purépechas -also known as Tarascos- who inhabit the mountainous regions of the soulful state of Michoacán, and after whom this soup was named in its colonial capital of Morelia where I have eaten it one too many times, to the city of Washington DC in the United States of America, where I make it regularly for my Mexican American family: and hopefully it will find a place at your table too.

I lost my breath in that sentence…

Enjoy!

p.s. If you have any Mexican food craving, just name the dish, I will try to make a page for it in that cookbook.

Tarascan Bean and Tomato Soup

Sopa Tarasca

Recipe Yield

6 to 8 servings

Cooking time

35 minutes

Rate this recipe

5 from 5 votes

Ingredients

For the soup:

  • 6 cups of bean puree
  • 1 pound ripe plum or roma tomatoes
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 ancho chile steam and seeds removed
  • 1/2 cup white onion roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons safflower or corn oil
  • 3 cups chicken broth vegetable broth or water

For the garnishes:

  • 4 Corn tortillas cut in half and into strips, fried until lightly golden or toasted
  • 1/2 cup cotija or queso fresco cheese crumbled (farmers cheese, ricotta salata, mild feta or shredded mozzarella cheese may be substituted)
  • 1/2 cup fresh Mexican cream heavy cream or cream fraiche may by substituted
  • 1 ancho chile stem and seeds removed, cut into thin strips, flash fried (optional)
  • 1 Mexican avocado peeled, seeded, flesh scooped out and diced

To Prepare

  • Place the tomatoes, garlic, and the seeded and stemmed ancho chile in a saucepan, cover with water and simmer over medium-high heat for 10 to 12 minutes or until tomatoes are completely cooked through. Once the tomato mix cools down, place it in a blender or food processor with a cup of the cooking liquid, the raw white onion and a teaspoon of the salt; puree until smooth.
  • Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the tomato puree and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it darkens in color and thickens in consistency. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the bean puree and broth or water, simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the soup has seasoned and has a creamy consistency. Taste for salt and add more if needed. Turn off the heat as it thickens quickly.
  • The soup without the added garnishes may be cooled and stored in a closed container and refrigerated for up to 4 days. Since it thickens a bit as it cools, you may need to add some chicken broth or water to thin it out when you reheat it.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle on top a tablespoon each of cream and cheese, a handful of tortilla strips, a few fried chile strips and some diced avocado. You can also place garnishes in bowls on the table to let your guests garnish to their liking.

Comments

173comments inOn a Soup and a Book

  1. GildaGil

    May 02

    I saw you today cocking this delicious soup, and I just have to make it. Thanks!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 17

      Hope you liked it!

  2. Anonymous

    May 02

    I saw you today cocking this delicious soup, and I just have to make it. Thanks!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 15

      Thanks to you, enjoy it!

  3. Sylvia Goodale

    Jan 01

    I haven’t tried this recipe yet, but I saw it on the PBS show today, 1-1-21, and it made my mouth water! As soon as I have all the ingredients, I can’t wait to make it!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 06

      Awesome Sylvia, let me know how does it come out 😉

  4. Susie Portillo

    Jan 22

    I made this soup today Its awesome! as I have a bit of the flu and its been raining and windy, great soup now I going to make this everytime the weather is like this and stay inside nice and toasty

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 23

      Feel better soon, Susie!

  5. Veronica Leah

    Dec 08

    I made this recipe today, it was amazing!! My husband loved it too!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Dec 09

      Super!

  6. Mary Lacey

    Jun 17

    Dear Pati,
    It has been raining and blowing for days her, AND I’m getting over bronchitis. So your bean and tomato soup is on the menu for me and my husband tonight. Thanks so much for this lovely comfort food.

    All our best, Mary and Tony

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jun 18

      Feel better soon, Mary!

  7. Anonymous

    May 13

    This is the most amazing soup!!! I really did want nothing else for a week! It’s so comforting. I got my children to eat it easily with the trick of putting all the extras in little bowls in the center of the table for them to top their soups themselves. They loved it. I’ll make this often. Thank you!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 13

      I’m so glad everyone loved the soup.

  8. Anonymous

    Mar 30

    thank you Patti,
    You are good for the soul!
    Anne

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 08

      Aww thank you so much!

  9. Jasmine

    Feb 24

    Hola Pati! What kid of beans do you like to use for this bean puree? Pinto or Peruvian?

    1. Pati

      Feb 25

      I usually use Pinto, but Peruvian would be yum too, Jasmine.

  10. Murielle

    Jan 11

    love it and love you Pati

    1. Pati

      Jan 14

      Aww gracias, Murielle.

  11. Molasses208

    Oct 23

    Pati, this recipe is slightly different than the one in the cookbook. Which do you prefer?

    1. Pati

      Nov 01

      The book has the most up to date 😉

  12. Alice Burris

    Sep 24

    The soup recipe looked wonderful. Can you give me an idea of how to make the bean purée. What would the proportion of beans to liquid be?

    Thank you,

    1. Pati

      Sep 24

      Hi Alice, My method for bean puree is here: http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2010/04/pureed_beans/

  13. battlefied heroes Hack funds

    Jan 04

    Greetings from Idaho! I’m bored to death at
    work so I decided to browse your website on my
    iphone during lunch break. I love the information you provide
    here and can’t wait to take a look when I get home. I’m shocked at how fast your blog loaded on my phone ..
    I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyways, awesome blog!

    1. Pati

      Jan 04

      Hello back Idaho! And thank you for your comment: so glad my site I speedy for you.

  14. Hipolito M. Wiseman

    Dec 12

    I just want to tell you that I am all new to blogging and really liked this web-site. Likely I’m likely to bookmark your site . You certainly come with very good writings. With thanks for revealing your blog site.

  15. Maria Elena Alcazar

    Oct 15

    Congratulations on your cookbook. I’d love to buy it as soon as possible. One of my favorite mexican soups is “Cuachala” from Tuxpan Jalisco. It is delicious and one of my favorites. thank you!

  16. berta

    Aug 26

    que emocion!! la anticipacion me mata…would you mind if i blogged as i cook my way through your book? I would love to share it with my readers 🙂 of course todo el credito para ti!!
    seria un plazer hacerlo. Y una oportunidad de aprender de la mejor :0)

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 26

      Hola Berta¡
      Absolutely. I would be delighted if you blogged as you cooked your way through it! It is almost out.

  17. jennifer

    Aug 13

    I just saw online that your cookbook is available for pre-order on Amazon!!! 🙂 I am so excited! I tried your avocado ice cream and your recipe for avocado and steak sandwiches. My kids loved both! I can’t wait to have a book!! I hope those recipes are in there, but if not I have them bookmarked.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 26

      Si!!! It is!! So happy you found it, I need to add the links to my site… this summer completely unraveled before my eyes. I hope you enjoy it Jennifer!!!

  18. Required

    Aug 09

    Pati, Me encanta tu show y las recetas estan muy buenas. Favor de avisar me cuando el libro de recetas este listo para comprarlo. gracias. Janet

  19. Teri Nelson

    Jul 28

    Pati, I just stumbled upon your TV show this week. You have a new fan! You are so charming and enthusiastic, and your recipes look and sound wonderful. I love Mexican food but like many (most?) people, I have not been very familiar with truly authentic Mexican food. I’m so glad to see you are coming out with a cookbook. I will look forward to getting a copy when it comes out!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 01

      Hola Teri, Yay, I love new fans! I will definitely keep you updated on the cookbook!

  20. Ana reynaga

    Jul 14

    estoy viendo tu programa y me gustan tus recetas,estoy muy interesada en comprar tu libro de recetas,tambien mire que en el 2010 te preguntaban por el,espero que para estas fechas ya lo tengas terminado,por favor avisame., gracias.

  21. Required

    Jun 26

    Hola Pati. I’m also of Mexican descent and my mother who passed away several years ago never wrote down her recipes and I never observed how to make them. It’s one of my biggest regrets! Your recipes are similar to my mom’s cooking & I can’t wait for your cookbook. How do I get a signed copy?
    Gratefully yours,
    Vero

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 02

      Hola Vero, I am honored I am able to remind you of your mother and your mother’s cooking! As soon as I receive the release date for my cookbook, I will let you know and also how to get a signed copy 🙂

  22. Elena

    Jun 15

    Please, please, please hurry and release the book! My mother grew up in Guadalajara (proudly “Jaliciense!”) but unfortunately was not able to keep cooking Mexican food when she moved here nor was she able to bring any cookbooks–although most of her knowledge was passed on from mi abuelita and not written down. Your recipes are the closest to hers and I would love to have your cookbook! Is there an email list to notify us when it will be released?
    Que Dios te Bendiga y La Virgen de Guadalupe te Quide!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jun 15

      Hola Elena, Thank you so much for your comment! I will add you to the email list and keep you updated on the book! 🙂

  23. MIguel Vancini

    May 27

    Hi Pati,
    I see your show on PBS in La Mirada, California. My father was from Cuiadad de Maiz in San Luis Potosi. From that area they made these enchiladas that were very different from the ones I order in the Los Angeles area. They looked like small tacos, but they redness came from the actual masa where chili was directly added to the masa. In the enchilada the filling was made of potatoes and carrots and the enchilada/tortilla was fried. Toppings were cabbage and queso fresco. Typically you would eat the enchiladas with a fried piece of salted meat, kind of like beef jerky. I would love to have this recipe, so that I can make it at home.
    Miguel

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jun 01

      Hola Miguel, You have put me on a mission, and I will be sure to post it soon!

  24. Linde

    May 05

    Hola Pati,
    I submitted a comment, but perhaps I clicked the wrong button. Anyway, I just wanted to say that although I am new to your site and to you, I am fast becoming a fan!! I caught your appearance on “The Chew” yesterday, and I am anxious to see more of your recipes. I am going to write in to our local PBS station to try to influence them into obtaining your show. I was reading your heartfelt words about what food means to you and you made me cry. I thought of my beautiful mother, Lupe and how much she enjoyed cooking for her family. She was a wonderful cook who didn’t cook from recipes until late in life. She became a fan of many cooking shows and would write down a recipe that caught her eye. It has been six years since she passed and I still come across the slips of paper where she jotted down something that she would make, she became fearless in trying new recipes, techniques and ingredients…and this was when she was in her 80’s. She would kill me for telling her age!! Please keep telling a story with your recipes! Anxiously awaiting your cookbook… Linde

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 09

      Thank you so much for your lovely thoughtful comment Linde!! Your mother sounds like a wonderful cook and am honored that I was able to remind you of her! If you have any requests, please let me know 🙂

  25. Fernando H.

    Apr 18

    I am pleased to have found this site along with all the delightful recipes that you share Pati!
    I will keep an eye out for your cookbook! 🙂

  26. Required

    Apr 13

    I really enjoy watching you on CreateTV and so happy that there are now 2 gurus (you and Rick Bayless). Both of you have expanded, and honor, the breadth of taste and traditions of Mexican flavors. I’m a baby boomer with ancestral roots of Spanish and French. Those dear souls of the previous generation are nearly all gone. Now,as a 3rd generation Mexican-American, I am trying to remember and re-create the methods, tastes, and aromas from the kitchens of my mother, grandmother and great aunts. One of the best compliments my sons gave me was on a day they came for supper and said, “Wow, Mom, it smells good, just like Grandma’s!” Thank you, Pati, for helping me expand and recreate Mexican flavors and memories in my kitchen.

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 02

      Thank you so much for your lovely message! I am so glad I can help you go back to your roots and recreate the traditions of your family’s Mexican cooking. Glad your son enjoys it too! 🙂

  27. Erica Fonseca

    Apr 06

    Hola Pati. Me encanta tu programa y gracias a tus recetas me he ganado muchas felicitaciones en mi casa. No sabes lo que es querer cocinar algun platillo y no saber que y cual ingrediente se le pone. Nada me haria mas feliz que tener tu libro en mi casa. Donde lo consigo? Felicitaciones y te veo en la tele mi Paty.

  28. Diana Jergovic

    Mar 31

    Hi Pati,
    I adore your show, which I just discovered and I am bookmarking recipes from your blog like mad. Starting with Sweet Potato Salad with Chorizo and might serve it for breakfast with scrambled eggs on the side because I just can’t wait to try it. 🙂
    Really looking forward to your book’s publication. You have to come to Chicago as part of your book signing tour.
    Be well.
    Diana

  29. Linda N.

    Mar 31

    Hola, Pati! Thank you for your wonderful TV program and for the great variety of dishes that are so appealing. Today, I watched one of your episodes in which you prepared fideos in tomato sauce. Oh, my goodness…that took me back to the ’50s when my mother would prepare sopa de fideos. To this day, I can clearly remember the smell of the fideos cooking. I am so excited for the release of your cookbook. Please reserve a couple of signed copies for me. I can hardly wait; know it will be wonderful.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 09

      So glad I could bring back some memories of your mother’s cooking Linda! Yes, you can reserve a few signed copies as soon as it comes out. I will keep you updated on the release date!

  30. Kim

    Feb 18

    Hi Pati,
    I love your show and I can’t wait for your cookbook. Any word on when it will be available for sale?
    Kim 🙂

    1. Pati Jinich

      Feb 24

      Hola Kim, The cookbook will be out sometime early 2013. The manuscript is finished and it is just waiting production. I will keep you updated!

  31. Required

    Jan 21

    when will your book be avaliable

  32. Mari

    Jan 06

    Hi Pati,
    I have eaten a soup similar like this but it did not have beans. What can I used to substitute the beans since I’m allergic to them?
    Love your show and look forward to try your recipes.
    Mari

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 13

      Hola Mari, This recipe works well with any type of bean. Are you allergic to all beans? Fava beans? Let me know, and I can adjust and make recommendations accordingly!

  33. Michael W

    Jan 04

    I am originally from Texas and grew up on food and flavors that I really miss. It was great to find your show so that I can create all of these dishes anytime I want. Your techniques and recipes are easy to follow. One of my favorites is simply carne asada and fresh tortillas. I have been looking for a resource for authentic mexican cuisine and now I found it! Gracias para tu regalo 🙂

  34. Required

    Nov 20

    I love your cooking show & watch it as much as I can. In your cookbook,I hope you list a recipe for creamy-cheezy corn chowder. Please let me know once your cookbook is published. I certainly want a signed copy!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 22

      Thank you for your request and I will definitely look into it! I will keep you updated on the cookbook 🙂

  35. cactus pena

    Nov 12

    Hola, Pati:
    I truly enjoy your tv program and reserve that time slot just for you (I don’t even answer my phone!). I think the best part of the program is the authenticity of the recipes and how easy you make them to follow. So, when is the cookbook coming out? I had hoped I would be able to purchase one before Christmas, as a gift for my daughter. She’s recovering from breast cancer right now, and to keep herself busy until she can return to work, she’s learning to cook, and your program is one of her favorites.
    The only criticism I have about the program is that the music is sometimes so loud that I can’t hear what you’re saying. Maybe it could be toned down a tad?
    Thank you for such a fun program.
    Cactus Pena

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 15

      Hola Cactus Pena, Thank you so much for watching my show! I am so happy you enjoy the recipes. I am so sorry, the cookbook is not out yet. The good news is that the manuscript is finished and it should be out in the next year or so. Cactus, I also want to thank you so much for your comments about the music. We will make sure to tone it down in the next season. Please, give my best to your daughter! I am adding as many recipes as I can on my blog, so please share them with her! 🙂

  36. Linda C.

    Oct 13

    Pati,
    I just tried this recipe and loved it, the flavors melt together and the taste is so, so good.
    I can hardly wait for your recipe book to come out and would love to have an autographed copy.
    I also love your cooking show and you only make it better !
    I will be trying other recipes from your show and know they will be outstanding.
    I love you, your show and recipes, keep up the great job you are doing.
    Sincerely,
    Linda C.

  37. Ginger

    Sep 28

    Wow – what a fantastic website! I live in Texas and love Mexican food…this blog has inspired me already and I just stumbled upon it! Thanks for sharing your recipes.

  38. Donna M Scalpelli

    Sep 12

    when are you going to publish your cookbook? i can’t wait. reserve a copy for me, and tell me how to get it.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 13

      Hola Donna,
      I have a cookbook coming out in 2012! Thanks for asking… 🙂

  39. Rosie

    Sep 10

    I just discovered your show and blog today, I can’t wait to make my own floating islands! I need to get a copy of your book so I can try to cook authentic mexican for my husband, his mother is from Jalisco and makes so much delicious pozole, tostadas and menudo, not to mention the best retried beans Ive ever had. We dont live near her anymore, so he misses her cooking. Any helpful tips on getting the beans right would be appreciated!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 14

      Hola Rosie! My cookbook should be coming out in 2012. You can find a recipe and tips for making refried beans by going to this link http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2009/12/post.html. 🙂

  40. Emilia

    Sep 08

    Hola Pati, parece que tu libro tendrá que ser muy grande para acomodar todas las recetas que te piden! Acabamos de descubrirte en el canal Create, ya era hora de que una mexicana tuviera su programa de cocina. Me encanta porque me traes memorias de la infancia de las que ya no me acordaba, como los garibaldis! Muchas gracias por compartir tus recetas con nosotros, ayer probamos el pollo con tomates verdes y chipotle y nos encanto! Ya tenemos pensado hacer el tepache. Muchas felicidades por tu programa, te deseamos lo mejor y cuando pasemos por dc (vivimos en ny) te vamos a buscar en una de tus clases y por supuesto compraremos el libro. Suerte!
    Emilia

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 08

      Hola Emilia,
      Muchas gracias por tu comentario! Que bueno que les han quedado ricas las recetas y si!!!! cuando esten por DC, vengan a las clases. Cualquier antojo que tengas, pideme, y con mucho gusto hago in post y pongo la receta.
      Saludos por alla en NY!!!

      1. Emilia

        Sep 11

        Ay Pati, te vamos a ir a conocer para el pozole y el ponche de diciembre ya estamos planeando el viaje. Me encantaría una receta de tamales canarios, unos que son con harina de arroz, siempre me quedan secos como galletas y los que he probado en Toluca siempre son todo lo contrario y quiero que mi esposo los pruebe como deben ser, lol, gracias por contestarme y te seguimos mandando buenas vibras :).

  41. Laura Mercado Hoffmann

    Sep 05

    I have just discovered your show and website. I love it! I can hardly wait for your cookbook. One of my favorite dishes is the grilled pork, chicken & or steak on a clay pot. It usually has a small container of melted cheese in the middle. If you could include a recipe for this I would love it and so would my husband.
    Thank You
    Laura

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 14

      Thank you for the request Laura! I will be sure to make a post for this recipe soon!

  42. Emma V. Benavides

    Sep 04

    Hola Pati,
    I love your authentic Mexican cooking amiga! Atole de Arroz Con Canela, ‘Empanada de Calabaza’, ‘Gorditas’Tortillas de Azucar, ‘Pan de Maiz’, ‘Caldo de Rez’, ‘Machito de Chivo’, and homemade Corn/Flour Tortillas off a hot grill (comal) are amongst my favorites growing up as 1 of 9 siblings, and our parents w/ lots of relatives from Monterrey, N.L., Mexico. Most of us were born in Mexico, but raised in ‘el valle’/Hidalgo County/Weslaco, Texas!
    Thanks for ALL you do,
    Emma Vela Benavides
    PS: The kitchen is the ‘heart of our home’ in our Mexican heritage, and our legacy is our children learning our recipes, and passing on the traditions.

  43. Joyce K

    Sep 04

    Hi Pati!
    Love your show! Excitedly waiting for your book so i can throw away all my paper copies of the recipes. Keep using dried and fresh chilis and not chili powder. Almost everything authentic is available in stores or “tienditas” these days. PLEASE include a pozole verde recipe using pork; been looking for a good one for a long time. Thanks for a great show!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 14

      Hola Joyce, You are in luck, because I just posted a recipe for pozole verde at http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2011/09/you-know-you-want-it-green-pozole.html. I’m so glad you are able to find all the authentic ingredients! Enjoy the pozole!

      1. Joyce K

        Oct 26

        Muchas gracias Pati por tu receta de pozole verde! Es muy delicioso!! You have earned many fans with your great cooking show and recipes! I was wondering if you have ever made chilis rellenos with jalepeno peppers? very different from anything i have ever seen in any “mexican” cookbook. Many of my friends are from Vera Cruz, and so it may be a dish that is specific to that area. Anyway, thank you for your generousity and sweet way! Cuidete mucho!

        1. Pati Jinich

          Oct 26

          Thank you very much for your sweet message Joyce! Yes I have stuffed jalapeños and they can be scrumptious! Will try to get it here soon…

  44. John Gonzalez

    Sep 03

    I just happened to catch your pbs program and fell in love with the subject matter. My grandmother was from Michoacan and as a kid enjoyed her cooking as well as my grandfather who was from Jalisco. Unfortunately I never got around to writing down recipes as they always made everything from scratch and from memory. She would make tortillas for my friends who loved the real Mexican food, and ask how many tortillas do you want. She would proceed to pour flour out of the bag(not measuring) along with the other ingredients and she would have the just the right amount of masa for the number of tortillas. Her older brother owned three restaurants in Fresno CA and was equally good in the kitchen. Your program does bring back alot of good memories, but would like to know where can I buy your book?
    Thank you.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Sep 13

      Hola John,
      What a lovely message. I am so glad my recipes are able to take you back to such wonderful memories. I have a cookbook coming out in 2012. If you join my email update list, you will receive updates about the release date. 🙂

  45. Shari Burns

    Sep 02

    I have been watching your show on Create & love it! I spent a couple of summers in Mexico & I had the good fortune to enjoy delicious local flavor meals prepared by the people of the church where we were doing some volunteer work. I can’t wait for the book!

  46. Clancy

    Aug 30

    Pati,
    I would love to buy your cookbook. Please advise if you have an idea when it will be available for purchase….thank you
    Clancy

  47. Nora Rodriguez

    Aug 27

    Hola from El Paso!!!
    I recently found your show and am now addicted to your show..I have always been very intimidated by Mexican food…I was never able to learn from my Mom or my beloved Abuelita…I cannot wait for your book to come out!!! Please hurry!!! Thank you for your wonderful recipes!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 28

      I am working away! I hope you will find that you like it!! Keep cooking 🙂

  48. Rajat

    Aug 25

    Hi Pati,
    I accidently saw your show today at WHYY and loved it. We are vegetarian family and enjoy Mexican food. I generally cook Indian food but love experiment with different cuisine and Indian spices. I would love to get a copy of your book. But not sure how to place an order. Is it published yet? Keep up the good work. Looking forward to seeing your shows. Give me great ideas for new dishes.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 25

      Hi Rajat, Thank you so much for watching and inquiring about the book. I am actually working on it now, and it should be out in 2012. Please keep following the site for updates! I hope you continue to enjoy the show 🙂

      1. Rajat

        Aug 31

        Thank you for your response. Can’t wait for your book. If you are looking for ideas for your book, here is one – include lots of vegetarian dishes.

  49. Aly ~ Cooking In Stilettos

    Aug 25

    I discovered your show this weekend and – I have to say – I IMMEDIATELY looked for a cookbook to buy 🙂 The show is phenomenal and I have set the DVR to record whenever it’s on. Congrats!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 25

      This is music to my ears! Thank you SO much for your support. Please keep checking the site for updates. The cookbook should be out in 2012!

  50. Valeria Barraza

    Aug 20

    Hi Pati,
    I must say that I absolutely love your show and website! I am Mexican American, and I am just now learning a bit about my culinary roots. Pretty soon I’ll be marrying my lovely güerito, and I would love to delight him and the rest of his midwestern family with Mexican food and history as rich and authentic as yours! I cannot wait for your cookbook, and congratulations on your truly one-of-a-kind work! Would love it if you could include tacos de carne deshebrada. 🙂
    Un abrazo,
    Valeria en Texas

  51. Elizabeth

    Aug 12

    Hola Pati, my daughter ankd me watched your show for the first time yesterday and we loved it. I am not a good cook but you have inspired me to try the recipies. The food looked delicious and your stories and explanations are entertaing and informative. Congratulations and thank you!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 15

      Hola Elizabeth, I think you must give yourself more credit! I am so happy that both you and your daughter enjoyed the show. I hope you continue to watch, and would love to hear about your great success in the kitchen!! 🙂

  52. Gabriel

    Aug 10

    I just saw you on TV and I just browsed around this lovely website and I am very impressed. I can’t wait for the cookbook to be out. I hope I can order it from Canada. I loved this recipe and would love to see a recipe for a Tortilla Soup.
    Felicidades x tu exito.
    Saludos,
    Gabriel

    1. Pati Jinich

      Aug 12

      Hola Gabriel, Thank you for your kind words about the website. I promise to post a recipe for tortilla soup soon!

  53. alex baiunco

    Jul 27

    Where can I buy Pati’s cookbook?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 27

      Hi Alex! Thanks for asking, it will likely be out 2012!

  54. Gail

    Jul 23

    PBS has recently started broadcasting your program here. I love it, and can’t wait for your cookbook. Hope it will be out soon.

  55. Becky Shumway

    Jul 17

    I have been watching Pati’s Mexican Table for the last 3 weeks and love it. You are a great hostess and I love the recipes you make.
    I especially enjoy the stories about where you obtained the recipes, in particular, the recipes from convents and monasteries. I haven’t ever heard of recipes from these religious orders but of course, these women would have their specialties. What a great idea! Please try to make more recipes from the convents and monasteries for future programs.
    My best to you, Becky

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jul 21

      Hi Becky, Thank you so much for writing to me and expressing your liking for the historical aspect of the show. I am so passionate about delving into historical research for each and every recipe. I was absolutely fascinated by the stories behind the recipes from the convents. I will do my best to keep bringing you exciting, interesting and inspirational stories and recipes!

  56. Judy Cavender

    Jul 16

    I would like a copy of your book, too. Just saw the show today for the first time. I like it very much. Happy to get to see you do your great foods! I also love Mexico.

  57. Margarita

    Jul 13

    Hola Pati! Me encanta tu programa de cocina y sobretodo tus recetas!! Yo también quiero conseguir tu libro de cocina, y autografiado por favor 😉 Cuándo va a estar disponible? En dónde lo puedo conseguir?!! Habrá una versión en español? Y de casualidad harás el programa de cocina en español? Yo sé hablar inglés, pero de todas maneras me gustaría tener la versión en español también! 🙂 Felicidades por tus logros y que sigas teniendo mucho éxito en todo!!!

  58. Nancy Duran

    Jul 03

    Pati, Can’t wait for your cookbook! Love, love, love Mexican cooking in fact, all things Mexican!
    Keep on working on it–we’ll all be waiting and getting hungrier.
    Love, Nancy

  59. Deejay

    Jun 24

    I’m really looking forward to your cookbook. Your food is so like the food my mother used to make. I look forward to your show every week. It’s the best show featuring Mexican cuisine! You are a down to earth chef! Keep up the great work and hurry and finish your cookbook. DJ

  60. Valerie

    May 24

    So looking forward to this cook book. I work at a PBS station and watch your show every week with anticipation. Your’s is my favorite cooking show on Public Television or anywhere for that matter. I love how you speak and make the recipes interesting and easy to understand. And the music on the show is wonderful!
    It would be nice if the cook book had a spiral spine so it lays flat on the counter while you’re following it!
    Thank you,
    Valerie

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jun 17

      Hi Valerie,
      Thanks for such a sweet comment! I’m working to get my cookbook done as quickly as possible for you. And I’m glad you are enjoying the show!

  61. Marsha

    May 23

    Pati,
    Watched your show for the first time yesterday!! Loved every minute, the stories the recipes and the fact that it was replayed to make sure we got it!! Can’t wait to see it again and looking forward to the cookbook as well.

  62. Linda

    May 15

    Watched you for your picnic this past Saturday. I am in love with the show after one viewing. Lovely stories about your life growing up in Mexico, the things your mother taught you-the age by the egg beating-LOL! Please include the stories in your cookbook and so very important the best photos possible of the ingredients you reference-many of us will be unfamiliar with them so the photos will help us locate them; and phtos of the completed dishes. Thank you for a lovely 30 minutes of viewing. Size of the book is important-keep it small with a spiral spine if possible.
    Gracias, Linda

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 17

      Hola Linda,
      Thank you for such sweet comments! I will definitely add stories like that into my cookbook as well as photos for ingredients. You should check out the ingredient section of my website, here is a link to it: http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/02-ingredients/
      I hope it helps to answer some of your questions you may have about Mexican ingredients!

  63. Vicki

    May 14

    I am definitely interested in getting your cookbook. Love your show. So nice to see authentic Mexican food. I am interested in a flan recipe. Keep up the great work. I am now off to make your Garabato Cookies.

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 17

      Hi Vicki,
      Enjoy the cookies! Here is a link to my recipe for coconut flan (it’s perfect for summer):http://patijinich.com/pati_2020/2009/11/beachside-coconut-flan.html
      And I’ll keep you updated on the book!

  64. Robert

    May 07

    Hi Pati! Just out of curiosity, will your cookbook have a lot of pictures to go with your recipes similar to the way your website is? Can’t wait!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 11

      Hi Robert,
      I love cookbooks with lots of photos too. I am definitely going to have as many as I can in there!

  65. Shawn

    May 01

    Geart show and I love all the recipes. I have tried several!

  66. Diana

    Apr 23

    WHEN WILL THE BOOK BE READY? I’M DYIN’ JUST WAITING. LUV THE SHOW! SO MUCH BETTER THAN RICK BAYLESS.
    DI

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 13

      Hi Diana,
      Thanks for asking! I’m still working on the book, hopefully it will be ready for next year. I’ll be sure to let you know when it’s ready!

  67. Aris Ann Escamilla

    Apr 23

    Hi Pati,
    I just watched your show for the first time today and was very impressed. Like most people I love Mexican food and have been cooking it for many, many years thanks to my mother-in-law (from Mexico),ex-husband and his family, but I want to continue to learn more about the foods. Like many of your viewers I too would like to purchase a copy of your new cookbook and be notified of the publication date. Have great fun writing/putting together your book.

  68. Suzi Friar

    Apr 23

    Hi Pati,
    After seeing your guest spot on Paula Deen’s show I searched to see if I could find you cooking anywhere else and was overjoyed to find you on PBS Channel 9 out of San Francisco. I love your show and am a “foodie” myself. I love the freshness of your recipes. I had shoulder surgery 2 weeks ago so am laid up and can’t cook, but I am saving up recipes for when I’m able to use my arm. I passed your website onto my daughter who has a 2 year old son and 3 year old daughter. Her husband loves your recipe. I loved the story you told about your blender breaking so you packed the car and went to your mom’s in Mexico to get it fixed. And the comal was a nice story about something the mom gives a daughter. I’m trying to find authentic comal’s for myself and my 3 daughters. I am so happy to have found you and look forward to more yummy recipes. I live in Mendocino, right on the northern California coast. My house is 500′ from the ocean … beautiful here but never warm. If you ever come to California to do a class we’ll be there!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      May 12

      Hola Suzi!
      I would love to do a class in California! It’s so beautiful there! Hope to get there soon 🙂

  69. Lisa

    Apr 12

    Pati:
    LOVE your cooking, I do not get your PBS show in my area unfortunately…I can not wait for your book! I have studied how to make really good Mexican food for years, let us know when it will be available.
    Hugs, Lisa

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 13

      Thank you very much Lisa, I sure will!

  70. Laura S.

    Apr 09

    Hi Pati!
    I just watched your show today and can’t wait for your forthcoming cookbook. Please include a recipe for Sopa Tlalpeña and one for chiles en nogada. Thank you for the culinary inspiration!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 11

      Hi Laura,
      I’ve written down your requests! Send along if you have more 🙂
      It is my pleasure…

  71. Jenni Sierra

    Apr 09

    Sopa aguada de fideos and pork for tacos al pastor. Also, I can never get my Mexican-style spaghetti to turn out right(my mother in law makes it with the ubiquitous tomato/onion/garlic puree and mine is always dry with a puddle at the bottom, so I think I need a recipe.)

    1. Pati Jinich

      Apr 09

      Hi Jenny!!
      I am making that Mexican style spaghetti in Episode 9… Look out for it 🙂
      Very best,
      Pati

  72. Kiyanosh Kamdar

    Feb 21

    I’ll have to give this recipe a try as well as the Tepache recipe. Just waiting for the weather to warm up.
    Keep at the cookbook, you got another customer here. I’m very selective about my Mexican cook books and one method I use to determine if the cookbook is authentic is does it have a real Mexican Shrimp Cocktail recipe? Does it have Sopa de Tortilla recipe?
    since I live so close to the border, I’ve eaten a lot of street and Bazaar food, and I love it all.
    Good luck.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Mar 01

      Oh great! I hope by the time the cookbook is ready, it will be of your liking ; )

  73. Mary Boland

    Jan 09

    Dear Patti:
    I cannot wait to try Tarascan Bean/Tomato Soup!
    My mother is from Michoacan, almost 85 years old, of Tarascan/Spanish descent and still cooking for herself in her own kitchen in Ohio.
    Your recipe for Mexican Rice, Frijoles and Mole which you made for one of the presentations at the Mexican Cultural Institute was as flavorful as if it was made by her!! I do not ever recall tasting a soup like this made by Mom, but am excited to try this for her when I go home for her 85th birthday this month.
    Please keep your fans posted on the publication date for your cookbook. I am sure it will be a great success. I am so happy that you continue to familiarize the public to so many delicious Mexican regional dishes.
    Happy New Year to you and your family.
    Mary Boland

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 09

      Hi Mary,
      Thank you so very much for your lovely message. Oh I would love to meet your mother!! Every single person I have met from Michoacan is truly adorable…
      Of course I will keep you posted on the book, I am working intensely on it!! Have a very happy 2011 ; )

  74. Irene Raymond

    Jan 01

    Pati – Acabo de descubrir tu blog! Wow! Se lo mande a mis amigos. Cuando podemos comprar tu libro? Me veo comprando muchos como regalos en el futuro.
    I have to eat gluten and dairy-free, but I see a ton of recipes I’ll still be able to enjoy!
    Keep on blogging!
    Mil gracias de tu nueva “fan”,
    Irene from British Columbia

    1. Pati Jinich

      Jan 02

      Hola Irene,
      Qué gusto me da que te guste!! Si tienes algo en especial que se te antoje, avísame… Saludos desde DC…

  75. Betty weisz

    Dec 30

    Dear,dear Pati,
    We are so excited for you!!!!!!
    I can’t wait to see your book!!!!!!! The first time I saw the ‘Wedding Cookies’ here in Canada I thought:wait a minute here….These are ‘Polvorones’ !!!!!!!!!! ……and now I can make them at home!!!!!!!!
    I love the way you write and present each and everyone of your recipes….I have shared your blog with so many !!!!!!!!!!
    Congratulations on your so well deserved success and I hope to own your ‘first’ book soon!
    But as somebody above said: please keep delighting us with your blogging!!!!!!!!!
    En nombre de todos los Weiszes de Toronto, todo nuestro cariño,Betty

    1. Pati Jinich

      Dec 30

      Betty,
      Muchísimas gracias!!! Qué chistoso como las cosas cambian de nombre en diferentes lugares, verdad???? Pues ya sabes, que you can ask me any special request that you have and I will post about it.
      Muchos abrazos y cariños a toda la familia!!!
      Pati

  76. Darla L.

    Dec 08

    Hi Pati,
    I can’t wait for your cookbook to be released! Please reserve an autographed copy for me too!
    All of your recipes, instructions and pictures are perfect! I learn so much when I come here to your website. 🙂
    A question:
    I have never used Mexican Crema, I’ve always used sour cream instead, is it is the dairy area or on a shelf in the Hispanic food aisle? Do I need to refrigerate the jar after opening it?
    Darla (AZtweetr)

    1. Pati Jinich

      Dec 08

      Hi Darla,
      Reserved for you, you got it! Mexican cream is tangier, thicker and saltier than regular heavy cream. You should find it in the refrigerated section of the international or Hispanic/Latin aisle. Yes, after you open it you keep it in the refrigerator. You are going to love it ; )

  77. Maria Flores

    Nov 24

    Hola Pati!! Me quede pensando en la lista que te di y me gustaría agregar enchiladas rojas como una posibilidad en tu libro. Yo uso una receta muy sencilla de mi mami pero a veces la tortilla se me deshace y no se porque será. Tal vez sean los ingredientes o la manera en que las hago. Otra vez gracias y HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
    PD.. Enchiladas verdes también 😉

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 27

      Hola Maria!
      Para que no se te deshaga, dale una pasadita a cada tortilla por aceite bien caliente… Muy bien, incluidas las ecnhiladas! Happy post-Thanksgiving ; )

  78. Elaine Acosta

    Nov 23

    I second the request for pozole in your book! My husband is from Chihuahua and his mother’s pozole is his favorite (mine too!). Yours is definitely a cookbook I will purchase – your recipes never steer me wrong – and I have a native food critic 🙂
    Suerte, Pati!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 23

      Many thanks Elaine… Pozole it is!

  79. Maria Flores

    Nov 11

    Hola Pati!! Mil gracias por tu blog y por compartir tu don con nosotros. I can’t wait for your cookbook. I have tried many of your recipes and they have all come out great. I have tried the brisket in chile, almond porto cake, empanadas and even the mole. I can honestly say that I can’t wait for your cookbook. I love the history, your pictures and how well you explain everything. Me gustaría aprender como hacer la birria, pozole verde, mole de hoya y talvez, como soy de Jalisco, las tortas ahogadas. Gracias por inspirarme a aprender algo nuevo todos los dias!!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 16

      Hola Maria,
      I love Tortas Ahogadas, Birria, Pozole Verde and Mole de Olla!!!
      So happy that you have tried and liked those recipes… Keep on trying more!!
      Es un placer compartir y sobre todo con mensajes tan lindos como el tuyo ; )

  80. Frank

    Nov 09

    Soup looks great! What type of beans do you puree?
    Also I’m excited about the cookbook. Do you have any recipes for a good beef tripe menudo which I believe is Mexican? I’m a huge fan of tripe but I haven’t been able to find a good menudo recipe.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 09

      Hi Frank,
      Those were Pinto beans. But you can also use Black beans or Peruvian/Yellow beans. Change tastes along with different beans, but it remains a wonderful soup!

  81. Kari S

    Nov 07

    I can’t think of a specific recipe to request right now, but you can count me as another buyer of your book! I have tried many of the recipes you’ve posted here and they’ve all turned out wonderfully. Thank you so much for sharing your passion for food with us!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Nov 09

      It is my pleasure!

  82. Vanessa

    Oct 31

    Hello, Patricia! I cannot tell you how excited I am to hear you are finally writing a cookbook! I am a big fan of your blog & I just wanted to put in my suggestions: enchiladas & ceviche. I also agree with matt that there should be some recipes with nopales. I really appreciate you taking our suggestions into consideration. No matter what you put iin there, I know it will be a beautiful cookbook full of delicous recipes. I can’t wait to buy my copy as well as some for my friends & family:)

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 31

      Thank you Vanessa!!! Love your suggestions. I heart all of the things you want to see in there too!

  83. Lorin Johnson

    Oct 21

    Pati,
    I’m very much enjoying your blog. I too found it by way of Mija by way of kathleeniscookinginmexico.
    I would like a book when it comes out as well.
    I’ve traveled the entire country of Mexico and have a little beach house in Nayarit. A fabulous cook there makes a fantastic arroz verde. Would love a good recipe as she keeps a secret or two when making it.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 21

      Hi Lorin,
      I love green rice too… I will share all my secrets in there ; )

  84. matt

    Oct 20

    Hola Pati,
    As always an inspiration from you and now a book too. Fantastic, sign me up.
    In addition to the above, your interpretations for…
    Something really unique/good with Nopales.
    Arroz con Chiles y Queso +- Pollo, Langosta.
    Sopa de pan.
    Something good with Duck.
    Several Moles…
    Always a joy to stop by and so far success with everything I have tried. Viva Patti!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 20

      Hi Matt,
      Thank you so very much! So happy the recipes have all worked for you… Great ideas, all of them ; )

  85. Gary Robinson

    Oct 20

    Absolutely delicious blog! Making my mushroom soup for lunch look a little sad and lonely now!! There’s some terrific content in here, need to keep reading, and you need to keep writing!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 20

      Gary,
      Thank you! I will keep at it ; )

  86. Renata

    Oct 18

    FELICIDADES PATI!! Congrats on the book I’ve been wodering about that since I discovered your beautiful blog, Is the going to be avalible in Mexico? I really hope so! When is it going to be published? it sounds like you’re still working on it, BEST OF LUCK!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 19

      Muchas gracias Renata!! Yo te aviso cuando tenga todos los detalles… Besos!

  87. Tianna

    Oct 18

    Any room for arroz con leche in your cookbook? My Abuela used to make a great one, but I have never been able to re-create it. I love your recipes, they take me back to my summers in Merida with my family!
    Thanks! Tianna

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 18

      Oh yes!! I owe you that one Tianna! It will have its reserved space just for you ; )

  88. MAMOM

    Oct 18

    Mole, I would love to be able to make moles, lots of different moles. Oh, and Chile Relleno. If it were to fit and you could walk your (many, I predict) readers how to make tamales at home I would love to have that. Sweet tamales too. Perhaps an index informing your readers on the different chilies, dried and fresh, (with all their different names) and how to use them or what they compliment best.
    I am looking forward to the book!
    P.S. I love your blog and hope this new adventure will not take you away too often.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 18

      Thank you so much for your suggestions they are truly helpful ; ) And of course I will keep posting as often as I can! I happen to Looooove all sorts of chiles rellenos too…

  89. cptexas

    Oct 18

    Wonderful. I know it is going to be a great book! I found your blog by way of the Mija Chronicles. I made the albondigas from your blog. I had like 30 tomatoes on my counter from our garden. The albondigas were the best I ever made. I would love to see a recipe for Tacos de Canasta or Tacos Sudados. I followed the link from the Mija Chronicles which I tried. I read about 100 comments from the link. Apparently there is some secret to the method. They were good but not close to what we would get across the border in Juarez. As you know, we can’t go there anymore. We used to go just to eat. I enjoy your writing, your stories and the fact that you cook authentic Mexican in the US. I also would love a copy. I can’t wait. Thanks.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 18

      Thank you! You are right, there is a trick to making those tacos sudados work! In Mexico City, were I come from, the best ones were those one finds in the street corners early in the morning or around lunch time…

  90. Adelina

    Oct 18

    Congrats! I wish you lots of luck. I must try this soup. It sounds everything that you describe it to be.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 18

      Thank you Adelina! Try the soup… it is really worth it ; )

  91. Carla

    Oct 17

    Oh, if only I could fabricate the memory of a childhood in Mexico like Johnny Depp’s character in Don Juan DeMarco…then I would be able to tell you what specific dish I crave. But alas, I’ve never even been to Mexico. Still, I’ve really been enjoying your recipes, and would love to buy your cookbook. Two copies actually, one for me, and one for the friend who pointed me at your blog. Now, if it were New Mexican food, I’d ask for your recipe for green chile sauce. I keep experimenting with that, trying to capture the taste I remember from Socorro, NM…

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 17

      Hi Carla,
      Many thanks for your comment, you made me laugh very much with Don Juan de Marco. Love that character ; )

  92. Gladys C.

    Oct 16

    Felicidades! Thank you for highlighting the foods of my family’s native Michoacán and finally making it easy to understand how to make them! If I could plead for these to be in your cookbook… pozole verde, chilaquiles (maybe a little healthier?) and arroz de leche… thank you!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 17

      You got it!!! I heart the foods from Michoacán ; )

  93. Perla S

    Oct 16

    This soup sounds magnificent for a chilly autumn night. Thank you for all the great stories and photos. Your site is the best! Reading it transports me to my grandmother’s kitchen. Can’t wait for a signed copy also! Please?

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 16

      Thank you Perla S! It is with great pleasure that I write these posts! Of course you can have a copy with as many signatures as you want ; )

  94. Sharon Graper

    Oct 16

    Can I buy 10 advance copies of the book becasue I am going to give it to all my friends as presents? Everyone loves everything I make that comes from one of your recipes. I can’t wait. It will be fabulous to read, look at and cook from. Gracias!

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 16

      Hi Sharon,
      Thank you!!!!! Can’t wait to have it finished ; )

  95. Kristin

    Oct 16

    I’d buy your cook book for sure–and I’m picky about owning cook books, because I don’t have much storage space. But your Mexican food is authentic! I wish I could hang out in your kitchen and learn from watching you cook. Your photos are always fabulous too.
    Soup is one of my favorite foods and I’ve never heard of TARASCAN BEAN AND TOMATO SOUP. I like albondigas and posole very much and would love it if those recipes were in your book as well.

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 16

      Hi Kristin,
      Thank you so much for your comments and your suggestions! Of course I will add albóndigas and pozole, they are amongst my favorite too ; )

  96. Jennifer Leal

    Oct 15

    Ready to reserve my signed copy now! :o) I love your stories that accompany your recipes. Without them they would be lacking so much “flavor”!
    :o)
    Jennifer

    1. Pati Jinich

      Oct 16

      Dear Jennifer:
      You got it! Its on reserve for you ; )

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