In a small fishing village that has gained international fame over time, a signature dish is prepared. This place is a must-visit for culinary experts, especially those who enjoy seafood dishes. Located just 20 minutes from Rosarito, the place captivates residents and tourists alike.
We’re talking about Puerto Nuevo, a small town “hidden” within the Baja California peninsula. The history of this delicious dish began in the 1950s, when local fishermen began preparing the crustacean.
The secret? A simple but delicious method. Lacking access to special ingredients or spices imported from elsewhere, those who dedicated themselves to developing the recipe at the time simply considered applying a technique that over the years would become legendary.
It consists of fried lobster accompanied by rice, refried beans, and handmade flour tortillas. This easy-to-prepare dish became a favorite among fishermen. Over time, it has gained popularity among visitors.
A Quite Experience
Currently, in Puerto Nuevo, there are more than 30 restaurants specializing in serving the iconic Puerto Nuevo-style lobster, maintaining the tradition. Having the opportunity to enjoy this delicious seafood dish is more than just sitting in a restaurant; it’s an experience in itself!
In a relaxed atmosphere with an ocean view, visitors are captivated by a unique setting. The generously sized flour tortillas are the perfect complement. These oversized tacos (or burritos) create a unique blend of flavors and textures, simply unforgettable.
The portions served on each plate are very generous. There’s also the option to order a combo of one, two, or even three lobsters. All versions come with beans and rice. It reaches the table, open halfway; its bright orange color is striking, and its delicious aroma captivates.
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Baja California
The sides are quite generous. There’s also the option of including house sauces. Restaurant owners report that around 100,000 lobsters are served in this town each year. Locals share details about its culinary history.
It’s fried lobster served with rice, refried beans, and handmade flour tortillas. This easy-to-prepare dish became a favorite among fishermen.
It’s said that the dish originated when several fishermen joined together to find a way to attract more tourism. They offered fishing trips departing from this town. Some of the fishermen’s wives at the time offered their kitchens to prepare the day’s lobster.
The tradition began in the warmth of homes and began to popularize the practice. In 1956, it’s said that fisherman José Plascencia took some tourists lobster fishing. At the end of the workday, they arrived at the house of his wife, Susana Díaz López, who cooked the lobster in lard.
And for those who are far from Puerto Nuevo?
At that moment, she accompanied it with whatever she had on hand: red rice, beans, and flour tortillas. Unaware that from that moment on, she was starting a tradition, Susana offered this dish to tourists. Currently, Pueblo Nuevo lobster is considered an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Baja California.
For those who live far from Baja California, don’t have the opportunity to go as often as they would like, or are simply unable to get to Puerto Nuevo, there is a place in Mexico City that prepares this delicious dish.
We’re talking about Hacienda de los Morales, an iconic spot located in Polanco. The Lobster Festival is held there in October and part of November: a menu of eight different dishes aimed at satisfying the most demanding palates.
Source: meteored
