Since my first week living in Puerto Vallarta, I have been absolutely obsessed with the local food. I quickly realized that if we wanted our home cooking to taste anything like the street stalls or the local abuela's recipes, we needed the right tools. There is something about the way a clay pot holds heat that a stainless steel pan just cannot replicate!
Our kitchen in Amapas is filled with these beautiful pieces now. Every time we walk into the kitchen, the smell of seasoned clay and fresh spices reminds us why we LOVE this city so much. If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking to dive into the local culture, learning about traditional cookware is the BEST way to start.
The Olla: The Secret to Perfect Beans
The first thing I ever bought for our kitchen was a traditional "olla de barro." These are tall, deep clay pots that are usually glazed on the inside. You see them everywhere in the local markets.
We use our olla specifically for beans and coffee. There is a deep, earthy flavor that the clay imparts to the black beans that you just can't get from a metal pot. It is truly AMAZING how much of a difference it makes. If you are staying in one of the many Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner, you might even find one already tucked away in the cabinets!
When you buy an olla, make sure to ask the vendor if it is "libre de plomo" (lead-free). Most modern artisans use safe glazes now, but it is always good to check. Once you get it home, you have to "cure" it. I usually rub a garlic clove all over the outside and then boil some water in it for a few hours. It sounds like a lot of work, but trust me, it is sooo worth it.
The Versatile Cazuela
Next up is the cazuela. These are wider and shallower than the olla. They are essentially the Mexican version of a skillet or a shallow soup pot. We use ours for everything from moles to thick stews like pozole.
The wide rim allows the liquid to evaporate just enough to concentrate the flavors. Plus, they look so beautiful when you bring them straight to the dinner table. We often host friends in our condo, and serving a steaming hot dish right out of a colorful cazuela always gets the best reactions!!
But best of all, these pots are very affordable. You don't need to spend a fortune to have a high-quality kitchen setup here. If you want to see more of what we do around town, check out our guide to local secrets for more inspiration.
The Mighty Molcajete
You cannot call yourself a local cook without a molcajete. This is a mortar and pestle made from heavy volcanic stone. It is heavy, it is rough, and it is the only way to make a proper salsa or guacamole.
Using a blender is fine for some things, but a molcajete crushes the seeds and oils out of the peppers and tomatoes in a way that creates a texture you won't believe. My wife and I spend many afternoons on our terrace in Amapas, grinding up fresh habaneros and tomatoes for our evening snacks.
When you go to buy one, look for "piedra volcánica." Avoid the smooth, gray ones that feel like concrete; those are just for decoration and will leave grit in your food! A real molcajete will last you a lifetime. It is a piece of history right on your counter.
Finding Your Kitchen Treasures in PV
So, where do you go to find these gems? My absolute favorite place is the Mercado Municipal Río Cuale. It is right in the heart of Old Town (some people call it the Zona Romantica, but we know it's the same wonderful place!).
The market is a labyrinth of stalls, and if you head toward the back sections, you will find vendors with stacks of barro (clay) cookware reaching toward the ceiling. It is a sensory overload of colors and textures! If the weather isn't great for the beach, shopping for kitchenware is a great way to spend the afternoon. For more ideas on what to do when it drizzles, you should read how to handle a rainy day in PV as well.
Another great spot is the Mercado Municipal Emiliano Zapata. This market is much more "local." This is where the residents shop for their daily groceries and basic kitchen supplies. You might not find the flashy painted ceramics here, but you will find the sturdy, everyday pots that the locals actually use. It is highly recommended if you want the most authentic experience possible.
Why Amapas is the Best Place to Stay
After a long day of exploring the markets and carrying heavy clay pots back home, there is nothing like coming back to a condo in Amapas. In my experience, Amapas is the best place to rent in all of Puerto Vallarta. You get the peace and quiet of the hillside, but you are just a short walk away from the hustle and bustle of Old Town.
The kitchens in these condos are usually quite modern and spacious, which makes them the perfect canvas for your new collection of traditional cookware. We love the mix of high-end stainless steel appliances and rustic clay pots. It feels like the perfect blend of modern comfort and Mexican tradition.
If you are looking for the apartaento de mi sueno, you really can't go wrong with this neighborhood. The views are incredible, the air is fresher, and you feel like you are in your own private oasis while still being close to the best tacos in the world.
Final Thoughts on Your Kitchen Journey
Buying traditional cookware is more than just a shopping trip; it is a way to connect with the culture of Puerto Vallarta. Every time you cook a pot of beans or grind a salsa, you are participating in a tradition that has been around for centuries.
We are so grateful for the artisans who keep these traditions alive. Their work makes our lives so much richer and our dinners so much tastier! Whether you are here for a week or a year, I encourage you to pick up at least one piece of barro to take home with you.
We would LOVE to see your kitchen setups! Feel free to share your favorite Mexican recipes with us on Facebook.
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