How they're assembled
The recipe published by Mérida's city government builds them like this:
- Tortillas fried in lard and drained.
- A layer of bean paste on the tortilla.
- One or two fried eggs.
- Tomato sauce, made by boiling and blending tomato with onion, then frying it.
- Optionally, another fried tortilla on top, more sauce, and finally chopped ham, peas and grated cheese.
Variations
The state tourism portal notes that some versions add fried plantain and cheese. Every fonda has its own touch.
Origins in Motul
Yucatán's official tourism site names Motul as the dish's attributed birthplace. There are two stories about its creation: one credits cook Jorge Siqueff during a 1921 visit by Governor Felipe Carrillo Puerto, and Motul's tourism plan records another version dated 1922 or 1923. Neither is confirmed, so they're best told as attributions.
Where to try them
In Motul, the 20 de Noviembre market is promoted as the place to try huevos motuleños. In Mérida and other towns you'll find them at fondas and restaurants at breakfast time.
Tips
- They're a hearty breakfast: good before a long day.
- If you don't like heat, ask for habanero salsa on the side.
- Ask whether they come with fried plantain.
Breakfast before your day trip
Many day trips leave early, so a solid breakfast helps. Mary Tours' office is on Calle 61 in Mérida's historic center; each trip's departure time is in the booking section.
Fun facts
- There are two different stories about how huevos motuleños were created.
- Some versions include fried plantain.
- They can be stacked with a second tortilla.
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Frequently asked questions
What are huevos motuleños?
Fried tortilla with beans, fried eggs, tomato sauce, ham, peas and cheese.
Where are they from?
Their origin is attributed to Motul, Yucatán.
Who invented them?
Stories differ; one credits Jorge Siqueff in 1921, but no version is confirmed.
Do they come with plantain?
Some versions add fried plantain.
