Mexican dishes have been popular in the US since the early 20th century. Mexican restaurants first started appearing in major cities like New York and Los Angeles in the 1920s, and their popularity has only grown. Today, you can find Mexican food options in nearly every town across the country.
Mexican cuisine is sought-after; for one thing, it’s a cuisine that involves variety and creativity in culinary. Furthermore, Mexican dishes are known for their tasteful flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Common ingredients in this cuisine include chili peppers, tomatoes, beans, maize, and chocolate.
The following are just some of the most well-known Mexican dishes:
Tacos – These are made by placing various ingredients—meat, cheese, and vegetables, inside a soft corn tortilla. They are then rolled up and served with salsa or sour cream.
Mexican tacos are delicious because they are full of fresh, flavorful ingredients. The most popular type of taco is the beef taco, which comes with seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Other popular types of tacos include chicken tacos, fish tacos, and vegetarian tacos.
Enchiladas – Preparing these involves rolling a corn tortilla around fillings such as cheese, meat, vegetables, and others. The enchilada is then covered in a sauce, typically red or green chili, and baked until hot and bubbly. Enchiladas typically with different toppings like sour cream, salsa, or Guacamole.
Guacamole– It consists of mashed avocados, onions, tomatoes, and chili peppers. Often, Guacamole is served as a dip or condiment.
Burritos – This dish is perfect whether you want a quick and easy meal or something more substantial to share with friends and family. Burritos’ ingredients include beans, rice, meat, vegetables, and cheese, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. They can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of different dipping sauces.
Quesadillas – This dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine and a good match for a quick snack or a hearty meal. It can tantalize your taste buds with its combination of melted cheese, warm tortillas, and savory fillings.
Quesadilla includes a soft flour tortilla wrapping cheese and other fillings, such as meat and vegetables. Then, a quesadilla is grilled or fried until the cheese melts, and the tortilla is crispy.
Tamales – It is a great dish to serve at parties or special occasions, and they can be enjoyed either as an appetizer or a main course. Tamales are usually prepared with dough (corn, wheat, or flour) and filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Then, a corn husk or banana leaf wraps an amount of these before being steamed or boiled.
Chilaquiles – The perfect blend of spices, flavor, and texture makes Chilaquiles a favorite among many. Typically, these consist of tortilla chips, salsa, and shredded cheese. However, there are many variations of this dish. Some recipes call for eggs, beans, or even meat.
Chiles en nogada – The dish comes from the Spanish words for “chili peppers” and “walnuts”— key ingredients. It is primarily a popular food every September when Mexico celebrates its independence.
Chiles en nogada is traditionally made with poblano peppers, walnuts, cream, and various fruits. The most common fruit in this dish is pear, but you can also find it made with apples, peaches, or plums.
It is easy to see why Mexican dishes are popular. With their delicious flavors, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, give these a try next time you’re in the mood for some good Mexican food!