If you're one of those people who even burns water, then you need to know about Saint Paschal Baylon, the patron saint of cooking and patron of cooks.  

Saint Paschal Baylon, although originally from Spain, has gained thousands of followers worldwide, especially in Mexico. In fact, those dedicated to cooking have so much faith in him that there are even various prayers to ensure the food turns out well.  

Now you know, if you also need a miracle in the kitchen, don't miss the story of this saint, the prayers you can make to him, and some tips for cooking with divine intervention. 

You can also read: The Delicious Origin of Mole Poblano

Saint Paschal Baylon and His Miracles 

This saint is attributed with various miracles, including the multiplication of food and the healing of the sick. One of the most well-known stories tells how, during a food shortage in his monastery, Saint Paschal turned stones into bread to feed other Franciscan monks.  

It is also said that it was thanks to his divine intervention that mole poblano saw the light of day. According to various sources, during the visit of Viceroy Juan Palafox to Puebla, Friar Paschal was very nervous while cooking.  

While cleaning the kitchen, he tripped and spilled chilies, spices, and chocolate into a pot. He decided to cook the concoction, not without first entrusting himself to Saint Paschal Baylon. To his surprise, everyone praised the dish: the now-famous mole poblano.

Saint Paschal Baylon in Mexican Cuisine

Although this saint is of Spanish origin, the devotion to Saint Paschal Baylon reached our country during the colonial era, especially in Puebla, where nuns invoked him to ensure good flavor in their dishes. Over time, he became established as the patron of cooks and chefs throughout the country. 

In Oaxaca, his image was placed in a special niche in the Santo Domingo de Guzmán temple, in a special ceremony. 

See more: Talavera, the Art That Survives the Test of Time

Prayers to Request Good Flavor

To invoke the help of Saint Paschal Baylon in the kitchen, popular prayers are recited such as: 

• “San Pascualito Bailón, dance for me on this stove. You give me the flavor and I'll dance a danzón for you.”
• “San Pascual Bailón, who leaps, runs, almost flies over pots and pans, give my dish flavor.”

So if you don't even know how to boil an egg, don't hesitate to put these prayers to the test so your dishes turn out delicious.

Tips for Cooking with the Help of Saint Paschal Baylon 

If you want to invoke the help of Saint Paschal Baylon in the kitchen and ensure good flavor in your recipes, consider the following:

• Say a prayer: Before you start cooking, recite one of the prayers mentioned earlier, asking for the saint's intercession so your dishes are flavorful. 
• Maintain a positive attitude: Cook with joy and love, as it's believed positive energy influences the taste of dishes. 
• Share your food: Following the example of Saint Paschal Baylon, share your meals with others, especially those in need. 
• Keep your kitchen clean and organized: Cleanliness and order in the kitchen are essential for preparing food hygienically.

Now you know, to have good flavor in the kitchen, you only need two things: Kiwilimón recipes and a prayer to Saint Paschal Baylon.  

To bring delicious dishes to your table, you must prepare them with love, attention, and great faith in your own seasoning. To make them even better, just follow the recipes step by step and entrust yourself to this saint. Let's cook!  

Continue reading: Pipián, a Pre-Hispanic Dish with a Rich History

*Photo: arquidiocesismexico.org.mx