In Mexico, a way to honor dead relatives is through the preparing and eating of Day of the Dead food. The Day of the Dead is an event in which families celebrate the return of the spirits of deceased ancestors. On November 1st and 2nd, tables in homes throughout Mexico are laid with food and drink. To create an atmosphere that any wandering spirit would love to visit, families often prepare dishes enjoyed by their loved ones.
Day of the Dead Bread
Day of the Dead food usually consists of the dishes the deceased person preferred in life, but bread, salt and water are always included to help aid the spirit on their journey back. Day of the Dead bread, called pan de muerto, is made from an egg-rich dough. The shape varies regionally, but the most common loaves are round with strips of dough representing bones with a skull in the center. In some parts of Mexico, bakers shape the Day of the Dead Bread as humans or animals.
Sugary Treats
Candied pumpkin and sugar figures are two delicacies present on the home altar, as it is a common belief that the dead love sugar. Sugar candies, shaped in skull or skeleton designs, are often inscribed with the name of the deceased and then eaten in their honor. Mexicans believe that the souls of children, or los angelitos, return on the first day of the celebrations. They are honored with separate altars and offered candy, toys, fruit, milk, soft drinks and miniature pan de muerto.
Feeding the Dead
The adult spirits, who return a day later, receive only the finest Day of the Dead foods. Dishes that require the most ingredients and preparation are a sign of higher respect. Special occasion dishes such as mole (turkey in chili sauce), and tamales (corn dumplings filled with meat and chili steamed in husks) are most common. Since spirits cannot eat or drink, they take in the essence of the foods' aroma. Most Day of the Dead food is pungent and chili-laced so as to be more enticing to the deceased. The offerings are later eaten by the family or given away.
Spirits are served their favorite beverages as well, whether they are traditional liquors, such as the pre-European alcoholic mescal, pulque and atole, or the more common chocolate, soft drinks or tequila. Most important is a glass of water for the spirits who are thirsty after their long journey. Some celebrants believe that the level of liquid left on the altar decreases in the night, which is proof that their loved ones really came to share the feast.
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Dia de los Muertos' history reflects early Catholic practices, but the holiday, also known as the "Day of the Dead," has emerged as an Aztec-influenced Mexican celebration with a distinct set of unique traditions. Born and based in Mexico, Dia de los Muertos is also celebrated by those of Mexican descent throughout the world. |
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Mexican exuberance takes on a special flair between October 29 and November 2nd during the Dia de los Muertos or Days of the Dead celebration. It's no coincidence that the festival falls near Halloween. |
