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Mexican food is a rich part of the culture and traditions of Mexico just as much as any cuisine is to the respective culture or country from which it originates. Mexican food marries a blend of old and new world ingredients and methods in totally unique ways, but still maintains the unique variety and regional flair of different cuisines from all over Mexico.

With the popularity of Henderson Mexican restaurants in the U.S., Mexican dishes are a great idea for a family meal or as an addition to the spread of food items at any potluck gathering. Add a bit of flash and panache to your next fiesta with one of these classic Mexican favorites.

 

Tamales are easily one of the most popular foods enjoyed all over mexico and in other parts of latin america as well. Made with a dough prepared with cornmeal masa that is filled with a variety of ingredients, from savory slow cooked carnitas, vegetables, shredded chicken and, and even fresh cheese, then wrapped in a corn husk and steamed to perfection. 

Tamales are usually served with salsa. Fresh salsa verde is a great accompaniment to pork and vegetable tamales. Chicken and cheese tamales go really well with the exceptionally spicy chile de arbol salsa, but be warned: chile de arbol is POTENT! You definitely want to use it sparingly.

This favorite recipe is great to make in big batches, and can be prepped ahead of time and stored for later use. Chiles Rellenos are made with poblano peppers that have been fire roasted, just enough to remove the skins. They are then stuffed with a hearty portion of blended cheeses and dusted with flour before being coated in a fluffy whipped egg batter, placed on a flat top grill and cooked on both sides to a perfect golden brown. 

The finishing touch is a bit of savory salsa ranchera and more cheese for good measure. Finally, bake for 10 minutes at 350° F. or until the cheese on top has melted. This is a great vegetarian option that even carnivores are sure to enjoy.

Pork carnitas originated in the Michoacan region of mexico and are a favorite among many Mexicans and Americans alike. Carnitas are prepared by slow cooking tender cuts of lean pork for hours in a mixture of spices, lard, oranges, and usually some amount of good mexican beer. The result is tender and savory bite sized morsels of pork that absolutely melt in your mouth. 

Carnitas are great served as tacos, with grilled white corn tortillas and plenty of chopped onion, sliced radish, cilantro and salsa verde. But they also make a good finger food. Carnitas can be cooked, cooled, and stored in lard for reheating for about 4 days, making this a great time saving menu item that you can make in advance, although it always tastes that that extra bit better when it’s fresh

Pico de gallo is a traditional mix of chopped onion, jalapeno, and tomato that is then seasoned with salt, lime juice and cilantro. The result is a popular topping that also makes as a great finger food served with tortilla chips. Literally translating to “rooster’s beak”, this chopped ‘salsa’ has almost become synonymous with the American understanding of mexican food, and it’s no surprise considering how delicious yet simple this dish is to make. 

Pico de gallo is a great last minute option for any occasion, as it doesn’t require any cooking. Although, if you’re in a hurry, you may want to consider buying pre-chopped vegetables as a way of saving time. Add 1 part Pico de Gallo to an equal part mashed avocado to transform your pico de gallo into a batch of deliciously smooth guacamole.  Pico de Gallo is a great accompaniment to pork carnitas, as well as an excellent amuse-bouche.

Food is a simple way to bring family and friends together whether it be for holidays or any other occasions. A meal is one of the most simple and wonderful things that we can share to show our loved ones that we care. In the U.S., mexican food is a standing time favorite that has become ingrained in our very culture. As more and more cultural influence takes hold, pretty soon the world will become blend intermingled of cultures, colors and flavors, much like pico de gallo. Sounds good, que no?

What are some your favorite foods to bring to the party? Are you fond of spicy, sweet, or salty finger foods? Leave us a comment with your thoughts and recommendations in the feedback section below.