Understanding the Cost of Traditional Mexican Dishes
Pozole, a traditional Mexican dish, is a staple at many tables on September 16th, Mexico’s Independence Day. Sarahía is preparing this “gem of Mexican gastronomy” for her family, aiming to have leftovers for upcoming patriotic celebrations.
Ingredient Price Comparison (2024 vs. 2025)
- Maize (1 kg):
- 2024: 45 pesos
- 2025: 60 pesos
- Variation: 33%
- Tostadas (50 pieces):
- 2024: 55 pesos
- 2025: 65 pesos
- Variation: 18%
- Avocado (1 kg):
- 2024: 60 pesos
- 2025: 80 pesos
- Variation: 33%
- Cream (0.5 liters):
- 2024: 35 pesos
- 2025: 45 pesos
- Variation: 29%
- Lettuce:
- 2024: 15 pesos
- 2025: 25 pesos
- Variation: 67%
- Lemons (0.5 kg):
- 2024: 12 pesos
- 2025: 15 pesos
- Variation: 25%
- Radishes (bunch):
- 2024: 20 pesos
- 2025: 30 pesos
- Variation: 50%
- Onion (0.5 kg):
- 2024: 10 pesos
- 2025: 10 pesos
- Variation: 0%
- Oregano:
- 2024: 10 pesos
- 2025: 10 pesos
- Variation: 0%
- Salsa Valentina:
- 2024: 30 pesos
- 2025: 35 pesos
- Variation: 17%
Total Cost Comparison:
- 2024: 382 pesos
- 2025: 515 pesos
- Variation: 35%
Dining Out vs. Cooking at Home: Which is More Economical?
Considering only the cost of the dish, a small pozole at Flor de Maíz costs 110 pesos. For four, this amounts to 440 pesos. Although seemingly cheaper, Sarahía’s family wouldn’t have leftovers for December 16th.
Alternatively, Casa de Toño offers pozole for between 92 and 99 pesos per plate, staying under 400 pesos for four. The advantage of dining out is not cooking and avoiding kitchen waste, but it comes with the disadvantage of additional costs and loss of family cooking time.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How much does it cost to make pozole at home for four people in 2024 and 2025?
A: In 2024, the cost was 382 pesos; in 2025, it increased to 515 pesos, a 35% rise. - Q: How do restaurant prices compare to home-cooked pozole?
A: At Flor de Maíz, a small pozole for four costs 440 pesos. Casa de Toño offers a more economical option at between 92 and 99 pesos per plate. - Q: What are the pros and cons of dining out versus cooking at home for pozole?
A: Dining out saves time and avoids kitchen waste, but it can lead to additional expenses and loss of family bonding during cooking.
