Mexican gastronomy, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is famous for its intensity of flavors, its vibrant colors and the richness of its ingredients. Although many recipes seem complex, several of the most representative dishes can be easily cooked at home with a little patience and good products.
Here are some of the most popular and delicious ones:
1. Tacos al pastor.
The king of Mexican street food. Prepared with pork marinated in achiote and spices, they are served in corn tortillas with pineapple, onion and cilantro.
2. Enchiladas.
Corn tortillas filled with chicken, meat or cheese, covered with sauces (green, red or mole). A versatile and comforting dish.
3. Chiles en nogada.
A seasonal classic that mixes meat-stuffed poblano peppers with fruit, bathed in a walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate.
4. Pozole.
A thick stew made from hominy corn, accompanied by pork or chicken and served with lettuce, radishes, oregano, onion and lemon.
5. Quesadillas.
Corn tortillas filled with cheese and other ingredients (mushrooms, squash blossom, huitlacoche), browned on a griddle or in a frying pan.
6. Tamales.
Corn dough stuffed with meats, sauces or vegetables, wrapped in corn or banana leaves and steamed.
7. Guacamole.
The ultimate side dish: mashed avocado with onion, chili, tomato, cilantro, lime and salt. Ideal for tacos, nachos or as a dip.
8. Mole poblano.
One of the most complex and emblematic recipes: a thick sauce based on chilies, spices, chocolate and seeds, which usually accompanies chicken or turkey.
9. Sopes.
Small thick tortillas with raised edges, which are filled with beans, meat, lettuce, cream, cheese and salsa.
10. Atole and champurrado.
Hot beverages made from corn dough and chocolate (in the case of champurrado), perfect to accompany tamales for breakfast or celebrations.
11. Toast.
Crispy fried corn tortillas topped with beans, chicken, beef, lettuce, sour cream, cheese and salsa.
12. Cochinita pibil.
Pork marinated in achiote and sour orange juice, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked slowly until very tender.
13. Gorditas.
Thick corn tortillas that are opened to be filled with stews, beans, chicharrón or cheese.
14. Birria.
A stew of meat (usually beef or goat) cooked in a mixture of chiles and spices, served as a stew or in tacos.
15. Flautas or golden tacos.
Rolled tortillas with chicken or beef, fried until crispy, served with sour cream, cheese and guacamole.
16. Shrimp broth.
Spicy soup based on tomato, chili peppers and spices, with fresh shrimp and vegetables.
17. Mexican style cactus.
Strips of nopal (edible cactus) sautéed with tomato, onion and chili, served as a garnish or light dish.
18. Elote and esquites.
Roasted or boiled corn on the cob with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder and lime, or in its glass version as esquites.
19. Mexican ceviche.
Prepared with fish or shrimp marinated in lime, mixed with tomato, onion, cilantro, chili and avocado.
20. Pan de muerto.
A traditional sweet bread made for the Day of the Dead, flavored with orange blossom and sprinkled with sugar.
🌶 Tips for cooking Mexican at home.
- It uses real corn tortillas, which are the basis of most dishes.
- Don’t be afraid of the spiciness: adapt the chili level to your taste.
- Look for key spices such as annatto, cumin, cinnamon and cloves.
- Always accompany with fresh sauces to give the final touch.
✨ Conclusion.
Mexican cuisine is a journey of flavors that combines tradition, history and creativity. Preparing these dishes at home will not only bring you closer to its culture, but will also allow you to enjoy a unique gastronomic experience.
