Tamaulipas Chef Shares Mexican Flavors with Norway

MÉXICO » News » January 2024 » Tamaulipas Chef Shares Mexican Flavors with Norway

Published by Benigno Solís | La Razón on January 26, 2024

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In a delightful fusion of cultures, Sylvia Vavik-Flaten, a Mexican-born chef residing in Norway for the past 26 years, is bringing the rich tapestry of Mexican gastronomy to the Nordic country. Despite her Norwegian heritage, Sylvia has become a passionate ambassador for Mexican cuisine, earning acclaim from the locals in Norway who have embraced the flavors of Mexico.

Born in Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Sylvia harbors a dream of returning to her roots and cooking for her people. During her recent visit to the Tampico City Museum, she explored various exhibits highlighting the history of Puerto Jaibo. Accompanying her was Manuel Nava Estrada, the director of meetings tourism at the Ministry of Tourism in Tamaulipas.

Sylvia, with a Norwegian father and Mexican mother, expressed her deep love for everything Mexican – the food, culture, and the fantastic people. Despite her extended stay in Norway, she spoke about her homeland with an unbroken connection. Her mission is to introduce more Norwegians to Mexican culture and cuisine, drawing inspiration from traditional Mexican foods such as gorditas, flour tortillas, sauces, and meats.

While acknowledging the stark differences between Nordic and Mexican cuisines, Sylvia has taken it upon herself to bridge the gap. Nordic cuisine tends to favor lighter options, with a focus on herbs, vegetables, and seafood. Sylvia has been instrumental in teaching Norwegians the art of eating chili, introducing them to authentic Mexican flavors for over 15 years.

In 2021, Sylvia closed her restaurant in Norway but has transitioned to Sylvia’s Mexican Kitchen. Through this venture, she offers catering and cooking courses, emphasizing Nordic sauces infused with the vibrant tastes of Mexican chilis. Known as the “queen of tacos” in Norway, Sylvia has been a pioneer in introducing authentic tacos to a country accustomed to a different Nordic version. She has successfully brought Mexican delights like cochinita and birria tacos to the Nordic palate.

Sylvia Vavik-Flaten’s journey is not just about food; it’s a cultural exchange that transcends borders, uniting Norway and Mexico through the universal language of gastronomy.

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