ABOUT
“soy hijo del maiz”
ABOUT CHEF JEAN MENDIETA
Born and raised in Nicaragua, Jean Mendieta is a passionate Chef, gastronomer and photographer, with a specialty and a distinct focus on the culinary heritage of Mesoamerica. His Journey began when he was still pretty young, influenced by his family’s traditions, he fell in love with the cultural history of the indigenous groups that once ruled the area that is known today as Mesoamerica. After finishing his degree in Sustainable Tourism from the National Autonomous University of Nicaragua (UNAN), he decided to move to the USA with his wife. There, he trained in various restaurants while also studying photography. His culinary journey took him to Mexico, where he studied at the Escuela de Gastronomía Mexicana, delving deeper into the historical richness of Mesoamerican cuisine.
WHAT MAKES THE POP-UP EXPERIENCE SO UNIQUE?
Through our dinner experiences, you'll have the chance to explore the history of multiple native ingredients, including maize, squash, beans and an incredible diversity of ingredientes and flavors. Each course provides the opportunity to learn about the evolution of these native ingredients and the evolution of this cuisine as we delve into the prehispanic period, and the changes experienced during and after the colonization of the region. You’ll dive into the captivating narrative of how these ingredients, once fundamental to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, have continued to shape the region's culinary identity over centuries. From the symbolic significance of maize in Indigenous rituals to the culinary innovations that emerged through mestisaje, this dinner offers a sensorial journey that pays homage to the vibrant history of Mesoamerican food and the enduring legacy of its diverse and flavorful ingredients.
WHat does Xilonen mean?
Xilonen is a significant deity in Mexica mythology, revered for her association with young maize plants and fertility. Depicted as a youthful woman adorned with ears of corn, she symbolizes abundance, growth, and nourishment. Sacred ceremonies are carried out during planting and harvest, where offerings are made to ensure bountiful crops. She has many representations and names in differents cultures all over Mesoamerica. The many existing carvings of Xilonen suggest her importance in Mexica culture and many others in Mesoamerica as one of three maize deities representing stages of crop growth and maturation. Maize embodies the cyclical nature of life and the importance of agriculture in the Mesoamerican cultures.
The richness of the Mesoamerican culture owes its existence and thousands of years of evolution to one of the world's most significant, interesting, and intriguing plants: maize. Maize, as well as squash, beans and many other plants and vegetables formed part of the culinary mestisaje of Mesoamerica that still continue to play central roles in global cusine.
In the news & Around town
We’re excited to share all of the attention Proyecto Xilonen has been receiving!
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SLC Microgrants
The SLC Community Food Microgrant Program is a funding opportunity intended to support resident- and community-led projects that address food systems disparities and increase access to fresh, healthy, affordable, and culturally relevant food in Salt Lake City.
The purpose of the SLC Community Food Microgrant Program is to build an inclusive community around healthy food choices where individuals living in Salt Lake City have many opportunities to shape, participate in, and enjoy a sustainable and resilient local food environment.