These face shaped conchas are taking Mexico City by storm! – Level 2

Keyword Description
Concha A traditional Mexican sweet bread with a sugary crust.
Elaborate Containing a lot of careful details or different parts
Pop culture Music, TV, cinema or books that are popular and enjoyed by ordinary people, rather than experts or very educated people

In Mexico City, a bakery is turning the face of Omar García Harfuch, the nation’s security minister, into a unique type of concha. Conchas are a popular Mexican pastry known for their dome shape and sweet, crunchy topping. This new version, called “Harfuchas,” has a twist. While they keep the same delicious flavor, their top is styled to look like García Harfuch.

Jonathan Barrera, who owns Bestcake CDMX, creates these sweet treats. They are sold in boxes of six or more elaborate sets of four, but you can’t buy them individually. Because Barrera does most of the work himself, customers have to order in advance and be patient for their treats.

During the COVID pandemic, Barrera’s bakery opened in the Iztapalapa area. His conchas often feature fun designs from pop culture, like famous characters and memes. The “Harfucha” is part of a growing number of items inspired by García Harfuch, who gained fame after a major police raid in February.

People have been sharing photos of their “Harfucha” conchas on social media, where they join other items like blankets and dolls. The excitement around García Harfuch is partly due to his image as a superhero-like protector. He was even mentioned in a poll as a possible future presidential candidate in Mexico.

Bridging words

These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?

English Spanish
Image Imagen
Culture Cultura
Popular Popular

Time to discuss

  • Why do people enjoy turning famous faces into fun items like pastries?
  • What makes someone a hero or a superhero in the eyes of the public?
  • How can social media affect the popularity of a person or trend?

Let’s Write

Answer the following questions in one paragraph

  • Describe why Jonathan Barrera might have decided to create “Harfucha” conchas.
  • Explain how trends in pop culture can influence food and merchandise.
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