A Visit to La Casa del Maiz

Our journey to La Casa del Maiz was nothing short of magical. Nestled in a landscape that honors tradition in San Juan Evangelista, this agroecological project is not only a sanctuary for Mexican heritage corn but also a living testament to the dedication of Ezequiel Cárdenas and his family. La Casa del Maiz is much more than a farm—it’s a fully sustainable operation, owned and operated by Ezequiel’s family. They use every part of the corn in ways that extend far beyond food. Nothing goes to waste. The husks, stalks, and cobs are all composted to enrich the soil, while livestock are raised within the walls of the property, forming a self-sustaining ecosystem. This holistic approach speaks to a deep respect for the land and the ancient practices that have been passed down through generations.

As we arrived, we were welcomed with a refreshing glass of corn horchata—a perfect symbol of the versatility of this cherished crop, and a sign of the exceptional hospitality that was to come. Ezequiel, affectionately nicknamed as the “Maiz-stro” by our group, shared with us the harsh reality: native corn is at risk of extinction. But through his tireless efforts, La Casa del Maiz is fighting to preserve this vital piece of Mexico’s history. Before turning his focus to family and tradition, Ezequiel was an accountant, a far cry from the hands-on work he does today. His decision to return to his roots was fueled by a desire to protect his cultural heritage and ensure future generations understand the importance of native corn. It was clear as he spoke how much pride he takes in this mission.

Our co-host for the day, Pancho, shared how vital these efforts are, not just to the region’s agriculture, but to the culture at large. They explained that each variety of corn tells a story of adaptation and resilience, which is woven into the very fabric of Mexican identity. After an enlightening session learning about the history and significance of these native corn species, Ezequiel’s family treated us to a home-cooked meal that reflected their deep connection to the land. Every dish showcased the diversity and richness of the ingredients they work so hard to protect, reminding us that food is more than just sustenance—it is a vessel for culture and tradition.

This visit left us with a profound sense of gratitude for the hard work being done at La Casa del Maiz. The Cárdenas family is not just preserving corn—they are preserving a way of life that has shaped Mexico for generations. Ezequiel’s dedication, born out of a desire to honor his heritage, is an inspiring reminder of the power of tradition and family. As we left, we carried with us not only the knowledge that the future of Mexican corn is in good hands but also the responsibility to share their story and support this invaluable work. Thank you, Ezequiel, Pancho, and the entire la Casa del Maiz family, for your generosity and for reminding us of the power that lies in a single kernel of corn.