For tourists from other countries, Mexico seems to be a land of contrasts, bright and unusual. Simple and savory, Mexican cuisine quickly spread throughout the world. Mexican cuisine has its own characteristics and traditions. For example, maize, the usual corn, has become a symbol of fertility and prosperity.

Mexican bread and tortillas are made from corn flour. Ripe corn kernels are added to the first and second dishes. Even desserts are not complete without this traditional ingredient.

Another popular cereal in Mexico is rice. In different regions, rice is served in different ways. Mexican rice is usually flavored with pepper, onion, and garlic. Mexican rice calories and nutrition make this dish healthy and wholesome.

Another important food ingredient in Mexico is beans. Soups, porridge, and side dishes are made from beans, so-called here frijoles.

Topping the list of Mexican favorites is chili, a traditional hot pepper that is eaten fresh, dried, smoked, boiled, and fried. In any form, hot peppers add spice to all dishes that foreigners and locals like so much.

History and traditions of Mexican cuisine

The history of Mexican cuisine dates back to the traditions of the Indians who lived on the mainland before the Spanish conquer. The modern recipes are based on products that were grown by the Mayans: corn, legumes, melons, peppers. The Aztecs added vegetables, shrimp, insects, poultry.

After the invasion of the conquistadors, new types of meat appeared in the country: beef, pork, and lamb. Wine, vinegar, and cheese came from Europe to Mexico. Mexican cuisine is based on the food traditions of several continents. This is where the unusual flavor of the recipes comes from, thanks to which they are appreciated all over the world.

Vegetables and fruits, which are actively used fresh and stewed, make the cuisine of the Mexican people rich in vitamins and minerals, and the presence of hot and sweet sauces, with which most products are served, add spicy and juicy.

In addition to traditional tortillas made from cornmeal, other types of tortillas are served in Mexico. These include juicy tacos and burritos and their varieties: chimichanga and enchiladas.

A variety of ingredients are wrapped in flat cakes: meat, minced meat, vegetables, cheese, spices. Before serving, Mexicans generously season the tortillas with sauces: salsa, tabasco, and lecho.

The main feature of Mexican cuisine – spiciness. Europeans try Mexican food for the first time with great care.

Mexicans believe that the best second dish is a hot flatbread with a fragrant filling. Therefore, this ingredient is always on the table. And they add snacks to it.

Refreshing drinks and alcohol

Rice flour is used to make a refreshing horchata, which is similar in color and aroma to the milk. Also, Mexicans drink freshly squeezed juices, including exotic ones like black tamarind and cold tea from plant inflorescences is drunk in the heat.

The most famous alcohol in the country is Mexican tequila. All over the world, it is stubbornly called cactus vodka, meanwhile, it is made from blue agave.

Interestingly, it was the Europeans who came up with the idea of ​​drinking tequila with lemon and salt. This tradition does not exist in Mexico. Various types of beer are also popular in the country.