The Recalentado

The recalentado (literally “reheating”) is a beloved tradition in many households across Mexico and other Latin American countries. It involves reheating the leftover dishes from the Christmas Eve dinner to enjoy them over the following days, especially on December 25th, after the main festivities.

What Is the Recalentado?

The recalentado is more than just reheating food—it is a celebration in itself. It brings family and friends together once again to share Christmas dishes in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. In Mexico, for example, it is customary for families to gather on Christmas Day to enjoy the leftovers from the previous night’s festivities.

The dishes typically reheated during the recalentado vary depending on the region and family traditions, but common favorites include:

Turkey or pork leg.

Salads such as apple salad or the ensalada de Nochebuena.

Tamales.

Bacalao (salted cod).

Soups or broths.

Traditional drinks like rompope, Christmas punch, or cider.

The Meaning of the Recalentado

The recalentado holds several cultural meanings in Mexican tradition:

Family Reunion: After the grand celebration of Christmas Eve, the recalentado offers another opportunity to spend time with loved ones, enjoying food and the festive spirit.

Appreciation of Food: In Mexico, where food carries deep emotional and cultural significance, the recalentado highlights the importance of meals as a unifying force. It’s a way to honor the effort put into preparing the dishes while making the most of the leftovers.

Extending Christmas Joy: While the main celebrations happen on December 24th, the recalentado prolongs the Christmas spirit. Sharing leftovers keeps the festivities alive a little longer.

Simplicity and Enjoyment: Unlike the formal Christmas Eve dinner, the recalentado is more relaxed and spontaneous. It’s about enjoying food informally, sharing stories, and savoring the moment.

The recalentado is a way to continue the celebrations, share the abundance of Christmas, and keep the spirit of joy and unity alive. Though deeply rooted in Mexican culture, it has become a common event in many Latin American families and even in regions outside of the continent where Christmas is celebrated.

A Tradition Embraced by Tourists

In tourist destinations like Puerto Vallarta and other parts of Mexico, visitors often eagerly participate in the recalentado for reasons that go beyond mere curiosity. Here are some of the motivations that make this tradition appealing:

Cultural Immersion: For tourists, the recalentado is a unique opportunity to experience one of Mexico’s most heartfelt traditions. Visitors seek authentic experiences, and this celebration provides a meaningful way to connect with the community through food and family bonds.

Mexican Hospitality: Known for its warmth, Mexican hospitality naturally extends to the recalentado. Locals often invite tourists to join the festivities, treating them like family for the day. This inclusivity creates a sense of belonging and a memorable cultural exchange.

Culinary Experience: The recalentado is a feast of traditional flavors, offering dishes like tamales, bacalao, turkey, and more. For tourists, sampling these homemade delicacies is a special culinary journey, deepening their connection to Mexican culture.

Relaxed Atmosphere: Compared to the formal Christmas Eve dinner, the recalentado is more casual and welcoming. Tourists appreciate the laid-back ambiance filled with music, laughter, and a sense of community.

Learning Traditions: The recalentado provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about Mexican gastronomy, rituals, and customs. Participating in this tradition allows them to gain insights into the everyday lives and festive practices of locals.

Cultural Exchange: The recalentado fosters conversations and connections between locals and tourists. While visitors learn about Mexican traditions, residents also gain perspectives from different parts of the world, creating a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.

Sense of Belonging: For tourists far from home during the holidays, the recalentado offers warmth and familiarity. Even if they don’t celebrate Christmas in the same way, participating in this tradition gives them a sense of inclusion and shared humanity.

The recalentado is not just about enjoying delicious food; it’s a moment of cultural connection, hospitality, and shared joy. Tourists join in this cherished tradition not only to savor the cuisine but also to celebrate community and the authentic spirit of Mexican Christmas.