Modern times, the dynamism of work and life, along with technological innovations and globalization, have brought us closer to new flavors, foods, traditions, and customs from the farthest corners of the world.
That's why it's no surprise that food enthusiasts fly to Asia, Africa, and South America to experience the authenticity of previously undiscovered tastes and cooking methods. Alongside Italian and Chinese cuisines, a must-stop on these journeys is definitely traditional Mexican cuisine, because, as many say, it is a paradise for gourmets!
Actress Michelle Pfeiffer once said, "I'm not a dessert person. I'm more of a crunchy, salty woman. I could live on chips and salsa. Every time, I'd rather eat Mexican food than fancy French cuisine!"
Key Elements of Mexican Cuisine
To understand why traditional Mexican cuisine is so widespread and popular across the world, we will look not only at the main ingredients and spices that make it so captivating and unforgettable, but also at the culture, climate, and society that make it so unique that even Hollywood stars can't resist its flavors.
Located in Central America, influenced by indigenous tribes and Spanish conquerors, who made a huge impact on the culture of the region, they left a significant mark on the formation of culinary habits, tastes, and the addition of specific spices. The main ingredient used in preparing Mexican dishes is corn, as well as its derivatives. Beans and legumes are also significant, while chili peppers give a special, distinctive flavor.
Meals are enriched with local vegetables such as tomatoes, cauliflower, spinach, zucchini, swiss chard, potatoes, mushrooms, coconut, and vanilla, as well as edible flowers and spices not used in other cuisines. You will also find various types of edible avocados with skin, cactus, and huazantle (a type of broccoli), along with other fruits typical of this Latin American region.
European Influences
Spanish conquistadors contributed to traditional Mexican cuisine by introducing larger amounts of different meats — chicken, pork, beef, as well as various types of cheese, spices, and fruits. Guava, mango, banana, pineapple, and other tropical fruits are popular ingredients in these dishes.
Despite European influences, the original Mexican food is not greasy and has always had that fruity sweetness! Even in ancient times, it was cooked in large clay or metal pots without the addition of vegetable oil or animal fats. Traditionally, food was wrapped and cooked in banana, avocado, or corn leaves.
Today, this method of food preparation is considered an art form and a luxury, and it can only be tasted in high-end restaurants, not in all countries of the world.
Spicy, Spicier – The Spiciest!
When we think of Mexican food, we can't help but think of how it sets your tongue on fire. This is what traditional Mexican cuisine is known for – the spicy taste of chili peppers. Although not all dishes from this cuisine contain chili, and some use sweet peppers or dried tomatoes, it's not unusual to find this fiery pepper in what seems like a "regular" dish.
Chili peppers are indigenous to Mexico, and their use dates back thousands of years. They are used not only for heat but also for flavor. Even today, most Mexicans believe their national identity would be lost without chili peppers. Salsas, as well as other sauces characteristic of this region, wouldn't be possible without this strong red spice. If a savory dish or snack doesn't contain chili, it's usually served with hot sauce. It's not uncommon for chili peppers to be added to fresh fruit and desserts as well.
Cocoa also originates from Mexico. Since ancient times, as it still is today, it has been an essential element in cooking, especially in making sweets and cakes. Before European influences, it was originally consumed as a warm drink, mixed with honey, and was considered medicinal.
Traditional Mexican Cuisine Through Time
Traditional Mexican cuisine has evolved over time. Fast Mexican food, which we encounter today, is one of the products of the evolution of traditional Mexican cuisine. Chimichangas, which are rarely found on restaurant menus in Mexico, as well as traditional Mexican nachos (a form of tortilla topped with melted cheese and sour cream), can now be found in fast food Mexican restaurants worldwide.
A Mexican delicacy is certainly the consumption of insects, or entomophagy, which is becoming increasingly popular beyond poor and rural areas due to its unique taste, sustainability, and connection to pre-Hispanic heritage. Popular varieties include grasshoppers or crickets, ant larvae, stink bugs, and water bug eggs. Skewers of various insects can still be found on the streets of Mexico.
Nothing Without Corn!
Despite the introduction of wheat and rice into the diet, corn remains the primary grain. While it is eaten fresh, most corn is dried and ground into a dough called masa. This dough is used fresh or fermented to make various dishes, from drinks (atole, pozole, etc.) to tamales, sope, and more, serving as the base for main dishes and even in the preparation of tortillas — the most famous dish in traditional Mexican cuisine.
Tortillas are made from corn in most of the country, but there are other regional versions, such as wheat tortillas in the north or tortillas made from plantain, yucca, or a mixture of corn flour and cactus or wild vegetables in Oaxaca.
Common beans are a historical component of Mexican cuisine. Beans and corn lack certain essential amino acids, but when eaten together, they complement each other and provide a complete source of protein.
Quesadillas, nachos, burritos, tacos, and enchiladas are the most well-known dishes with tortillas. In Mexico, tacos are not eaten as a main meal but rather usually in the late morning or late evening. You can wrap any other food in a tortilla — meat, vegetables, fruit, toppings, and ingredients with plenty of spices and sauces, making it tasty, juicy, and delicious.
Many Mexican dishes are actually defined by their highly spiced sauces and the chili peppers they contain, not by the meat or vegetables that the sauce covers. Dishes without sauce are rarely eaten without salsa or fresh or pickled chili. This also includes street food.
To bring a small part of traditional Mexican cuisine to your table, we’ll spice up this culinary journey with two recipes.
