Bread of the Dead

In August on my previous trip to Mexico City the restaurants were all advertising "chiles en nogada", the scrumptious stuffed peppers covered in walnut sauce.  It is traditionally served in the late summer and early autumn.  The season for "chiles en nogada" is coming to an end.  I have only seen two restaurant signs saying that they still have the "chiles".  

However, now, as the Day of the Dead approaches, another seasonal specialty is being offered in the bakeries... "Pan de Muerto", Bread of the Dead.  I saw this banner on a bakery not far from my apartment.

Nowadays there are some bakeries that make fancy Bread of the Dead with fillings such as "dulce de leche", chocolate cream or hazelnut cream.  Those are very yummy, although purists would insist on the simple, traditional bread.  That is what this bakery sold.  I could not pass up the opportunity to go inside and buy my first "Pan de Muerto" of the season.

The round loaves have decorations representing cross-bones, and they are sprinkled with sugar.  "Chiles en nogada" is something that a few restaurants will serve all year long, but once the Day of the Dead season is over you will not find "Pan de Muerto" anywhere until next October.  So enjoy it while it is available!