What it is
Yucatán's tourism portal describes it as a combination of pork, black beans, epazote and spices. It's served with chopped onion, radish, cilantro and avocado, and suggested with chiltomate (tomato-chile) or habanero salsa.
Why Mondays?
The state tourism portal records several beliefs about the custom's origin and presents none as proven. One popular story involves using up salted pork after Saturday's pig slaughter; it's an oral hypothesis, not a verified fact. What's certain is that Monday is frijol con puerco day.
A dish for every day
A guide from Mérida's city government lists the traditional weekly lineup, summarized in the table on this page. The tourism portal presents the custom as a living practice in markets and fondas.
Where to eat it
The state tourism platform recommends trying it in Mérida's markets, and Izamal's recipe guide lists it among dishes in its markets and restaurants. Hours vary by place.
Tips
- Go before noon: on Mondays some places sell out early.
- Ask for all the toppings and build each bite.
A Monday in Yucatán
If your Mary Tours trip falls on a Monday, keep breakfast light and save frijol con puerco for your return, or the other way around if the trip doesn't include lunch. The office is on Calle 61 in downtown Mérida; see what each trip includes in the booking section.
| Day | Dish |
|---|---|
| Monday | Frijol con puerco |
| Tuesday | Chirmole |
| Wednesday | Potaje |
| Friday | Pan de cazón or poc chuc |
| Saturday | Snacks and tamales |
| Sunday | Cochinita |
Fun facts
- Yucatán has a traditional dish for almost every day of the week.
- The origin of the Monday custom is unproven.
- Sunday is cochinita day.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is frijol con puerco eaten on Mondays?
There are several popular explanations, none proven; it's a deep-rooted custom in homes, markets and fondas.
What's in frijol con puerco?
Pork, black beans, epazote and spices, with onion, radish, cilantro and avocado.
What do people eat on Sundays in Yucatán?
According to the city guide, cochinita.
Where can I try it?
In Mérida's markets and at fondas, especially on Mondays.
