Although Mexican food is widely popular, there is a treasure trove of lesser-known traditional Hispanic dishes with interesting facts waiting to be discovered. From unique regional cuisines in Mexico to stews from the Chilean archipelago, here’s the history and traditions you need to know about these amazing cuisines.
1. Mexican cuisine is recognized by UNESCO
Traditional Mexican cuisine is UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Traditional Mexican food was added to the list in 2010 because of its cultural importance and its cooking methods, which include grinding, pounding, and cooking over an open flame. This recognition highlights Mexico’s rich culinary tradition and its importance as part of the world’s cultural heritage.
2. Types of salsa
In Mexico, salsa is more than just a type of sauce. Salsas come in a surprising variety, from fiery habanero-based ones to mild, tangy tomato-based ones. Salsa is an essential seasoning for Mexican cuisine. So while people may only think of the delicious red sauce used to dip potato chips, there are many more varieties widely used across the country.
3. Insects are often used in some traditional Hispanic dishes
Many people may be surprised to learn that edible insects are not uncommon in Mexico. Grasshopper is the better known and popular option, but here are some lesser known fan favorites: escamole. escamole They are ant eggs and are considered a delicacy in this country. It has a nutty, buttery flavor and is often used in gourmet cuisine, especially central Mexican cuisine.
You can usually find these specialty options in upscale stores, but they may also be sold as snacks at street food stalls.
Four. Pepitos Nominated as the first president of Mexico
Pepitos is a beloved street food dish filled with beef or chicken, cheese, and a variety of toppings in a sandwich-like format. The fillings range from corn kernels to crispy potato sticks, and are topped with plenty of sauce. Guasakatangy green avocado salsa, salsa Losadaa delightful blend of ketchup and mayonnaise.
There is one interesting fact Pepitos Its name is said to come from the nickname of Mexico’s first president, Guadalupe Victoria.
5. National Pupusa Day
Pupusas are thick, round cakes made from corn masa flour, a staple food in El Salvador. These portable treats are often stuffed with beans, cheese, and pork, turning them into hearty meals.we had fun together Curtido Pupusas (spicy cabbage slaw) and red salsa are a national favorite and are celebrated on the second Sunday of November with National Pupusa Day.
6. Eat Chilean Nogada on independence day
Homes and restaurants across the country prepare for Independence Day Chile en Nogada: Green chili pepper with plenty of minced meat and vegetables. These are generously coated in a velvety walnut sauce and garnished with bright red pomegranate seeds. The green, red, and white colors of this traditional Mexican dish symbolize the national flag, making it a symbolically appropriate choice for Independence Day celebrations.
7. Holy Trinity
Mexican cuisine is characterized by the “holy trinity” of chili peppers. Ancho, Pasillaand Guajillo. These versatile chilies play a fundamental role, lending rich, smoky, fruity, and earthy flavors to many dishes, from moles and enchiladas to salsas and adobo sauces. Discover the careful and artistic use of chili peppers in Mexican cooking.
8. It’s all about vegetables
In many international cuisines, meat, fish, and poultry usually take center stage, with vegetables playing a supporting role. However, the ancient Mayans had a unique approach, initially featuring vegetables as the main focus of their dishes, and later incorporating meat and fish.
Modern Mexican cuisine continues this tradition, inspired by Mayan traditions, emphasizing vegetables as the central element of the dish and using meat as a complementary element that enhances the overall flavor. Masu.
9. Tortillas everywhere
Tortillas are versatile and commonly included in almost all Mexican dishes, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In the morning, it may be used in breakfast tacos or burritos. It serves as the main vessel for a variety of lunch and dinner dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. Tortillas are so widely used that they are a staple of Mexican cuisine across all mealtimes.
10. Churros on donuts
Churros arrived in Mexico in the early 1500s under Spanish influence. It originally resembled a bread stick, but gradually became smaller in size. Reminiscent of Spanish-style donuts, these fried treats are coated with sugar and served with caramel or chocolate sauce, and are preferred by most Mexicans to traditional donuts.
11. Tuna ice cream, anyone?
When many people hear the word “tuna,” they probably think of fish. But it’s much different than what you expected! Prickly pear is a type of cactus fruit and is commonly known as “prickly pear”. Tuna In Mexico. In Mexican cuisine, it is often used to make refreshing drinks, desserts, and sorbets. The flavor of prickly pear is sweet and somewhat reminiscent of watermelon and various fruit combinations.
The ice cream is made using caramel milk sugar and the unique flavor of prickly pear. nopales A fruit with a slightly interesting raw texture.
12. Best hot chocolate ever
mexican hot chocolate It’s far from normal. It’s made from a luscious blend of ground cocoa and sugar, creating a unique, earthy flavor that sets it apart from other varieties I’ve tried. This unique treat is readily available at nearly every restaurant and cafe throughout Mexico. Many travelers say this is the best hot chocolate they’ve ever tasted.
