Conchas: Mexican pan dulce (sweet bread) traditionally decorated to resemble a shell. This pastry dates back to the colonial era of Mexico with the heavy influence of European techniques and ingredients in pastries. Wheat was introduced during the Spanish conquest of Mexico and this type of enriched dough, resembles the French brioche. The use of enriched sugar used to coat the bread was also introduced by Spaniards, cultivated by forced indigenous labor and enslaved Africans brought to Mexico by Europeans settlers through the Caribbean. This pastry is a culmination of the myriad human stories connected through history that weave the fabric of Mexican cuisine. Today, conchas are a staple of breakfast often enjoyed dipped in a warm cup of chocolate or cafe.

Design topping: The design of this concha is the star of bethlehem. A common motif in both Palestinian tatreez and mexican telar de cintura. Both can be glimpsed in Noushi Pastry market booths too! : )