{"id":92966,"date":"2022-07-15T10:20:41","date_gmt":"2022-07-15T10:20:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/?p=92966"},"modified":"2023-05-16T07:20:36","modified_gmt":"2023-05-16T07:20:36","slug":"a-guide-to-mexican-cuisine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/a-guide-to-mexican-cuisine\/","title":{"rendered":"A Gringo&#8217;s Guide to Mexican Cuisine"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Don\u2019t know your <em>flautas<\/em> from your <em>fajitas<\/em>? Or your <em>empanadas<\/em> from your <em>enchiladas<\/em>? Well, you\u2019ve come to the right <i>lugar<\/i>, that\u2019s Spanish for \u2018place\u2019. Mexican cuisine is filled with a host of vibrant, flavourful and endless food possibilities, but this can be a little confusing if you\u2019re a <i>gringo<\/i>. This comprehensive guide includes different types of Mexican dishes ranging from tortilla-based dishes, sauces, sides, soups, stews, desserts and drinks. We dive into all the different types of spectacular regional dishes the world of Mexican food has to offer.<\/p>\n<h3>Tortilla dishes<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-92972\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tortilla-1x560-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tortilla-1x560-1.jpeg 1000w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tortilla-1x560-1-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tortilla-1x560-1-940x526.jpeg 940w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4>Burritos<\/h4>\n<p><em>Burritos<\/em> are popular in Tex-Mex cuisine, especially in the state of California, and the word \u2018breakfast\u2019 usually precedes it. Authentic Mexican <em>burritos<\/em> aren\u2019t loaded with fillings like its American counterpart \u2013 the authentic version is a lot smaller in size and quantity and often consists of mashed beans and <i>queso<\/i> (cheese) wrapped in a soft tortilla. The simple preparation means that only the highest quality of ingredients are used to make this delicious dish \u2013 fresh cucumber and a squeeze of lime juice are all that\u2019s needed to garnish and balance the flavours.<\/p>\n<h4>Machaca guisada<\/h4>\n<p>This dish is pretty similar to burritos, the only difference being that with <em>machaca guisada<\/em>, the stuffed tortillas are toasted, they also have the addition of braised dried beef with tomato and onions. Simple but delicious.<\/p>\n<h4>Chimichangas<\/h4>\n<p>Now, if a <em>chimichanga<\/em> looks like a burrito, that\u2019s because it is one \u2013 but the fried version (read American). The <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/the-difference-between-tex-mex-and-mexican-food\/\">Tex-Mex<\/a> version of this dish is made using bacon grease, but in <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/mouthwatering-mexican-food-recipe-round-up\/\">Mexican cuisine<\/a>, asiento\/pork lard is used. If that doesn\u2019t make sense, bacon grease is simply the residual fat from cooking bacon, whereas pork lard is the rendered fat from pork. <em>Chimichangas<\/em> are usually filled with shredded beef\/pork\/chicken, beans and cheese, with sides of <em>frijoles refritos<\/em> (refried beans), guacamole or salsa.<\/p>\n<h4>Chilaquiles<\/h4>\n<p>If you\u2019ve ever had one too many tequila shots the night before, a plate of <em>chilaquiles<\/em> is just the hangover cure. This <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/breakfasts-around-the-world\/\">traditional breakfast<\/a> is a popular Mexican dish and normally consists of repurposed tortillas from the night before that might have gone stale, but when cut into pieces and fried, they\u2019re good as new. The tortilla chips are tossed in <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/your-saucy-guide-to-different-types-of-sauces\/\">salsa verde<\/a> or red <em>enchilada<\/em> sauce, topped with a sprinkle of <em>queso<\/em> (cheese) and a sunny side-up egg.<\/p>\n<h4>Empanadas<\/h4>\n<p><em>Empanadas<\/em> are pockets of dough filled with pork\/chicken\/beef\/fish, potatoes and carrots. If we were to compare, the shape and golden exterior resemble calzones, but the filling is reminiscent of a meat pie. This Iberian dish has origins in both Galicia (Spain) and Portugal.<\/p>\n<h4>Enchiladas<\/h4>\n<p>If you\u2019ve never had an <em>enchilada<\/em>, it\u2019s similar to cannelloni in preparation, but the ingredients differ of course. <em>Enchiladas<\/em> actually date back to ancient Maya, but instead of dipping them in sour cream, they would use a mole made of pumpkin seeds. This Mexican dish has a tomato sauce base and is layered with rolled and stuffed tortillas (protein\/vegetables of your choice) and topped with, you guessed it, cheese! Try this <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/el-burro-butternut-enchiladas\/\">El Burro Butternut Enchilada<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4>Fajitas<\/h4>\n<p>Another popular Tex-Mex dish, contains strips of broiled or grilled meat, usually flank or skirt steak,\u00a0 but chicken fajitas are common as well, they also contain saute\u00e9d bell peppers and onions, served on soft flour or corn tortilla.<\/p>\n<h4>Flautas<\/h4>\n<p><em>Flautas<\/em> actually mean \u2018flute\u2019 which is pretty apt since you\u2019ll be singing its praises once you try this. <em>Flautas<\/em> are similar to taquitos and both are street food staples. Usually stuffed with pulled pork, this dish uses flour tortillas; the same size used in burritos.<\/p>\n<h4>Tlayuda<\/h4>\n<p>This iconic Mexican <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/the-history-of-street-food\/\">street food<\/a> dish originates from the state of Oaxaca, southwest Mexico. <em>Tlayuda<\/em> is similar to pizza in how it is eaten \u2013 cut into rectangles, but instead of dough, tortillas are used. <em>Tlayuda<\/em> can be thought of as an \u2018open-faced\u2019 taco and uses a large, baked or fried tortilla as the base, then topped with refried beans, asiento, cabbage or lettuce, avocado, meat, salsa and Oaxaca cheese.<\/p>\n<h4>Huevos Rancheros<\/h4>\n<p>Another traditional breakfast favourite is <em>huevos rancheros<\/em> or \u2018ranchers eggs\u2019; it\u2019s actually pretty similar to <em>chilaquiles<\/em>. They require the same ingredients, but the difference is <em>chilaquiles<\/em> use toasted tortilla chips which are tossed in salsa, meaning they soften \u2014 whereas in <em>huevos rancheros<\/em>, the tortillas are fried. <em>Huevos rancheros<\/em> is usually served with refried beans and topped with refreshing <em>pico de gallo<\/em> (<em>salsa fresca<\/em>).<\/p>\n<h4>Tortilla<\/h4>\n<p>Tortillas are the base of many Mexican dishes. It\u2019s a thin, circular and unleavened flatbread made of nixtamalised or hominy corn. &#8216;Nixtamilised&#8217; refers to the process the corn goes through before becoming maize-based products.<\/p>\n<p>Hominy corn is made by soaking whole kernels and treating them with an alkaline solution (lime or lye), which softens the hull of the corn. The outer skin of the corn is eventually removed when rinsing the excess alkaline solution. The end result is corn with a meatier and softened texture \u2013 ideal for preparing tortillas and also used in soups.<\/p>\n<h4>Tostadas<\/h4>\n<p><em>Tostadas<\/em> are exactly what they sound like, \u2018toasted tortillas\u2019. This is not a dish per se, but rather a category of dishes in Mexican cuisine. It refers to dishes which use toasted tortillas as the base of the dish. <em>Tostadas<\/em> are similar to tortilla chips used in nachos; the difference is that <em>tostadas<\/em> use whole tortillas, which have been baked or fried. Suddenly craving nachos? Try our <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/pulled-pork-nachos-with-spicy-guacamole\/\">Pulled Pork Nachos with Spicy Guacamole<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4>Taquito<\/h4>\n<p>As mentioned, <em>flautas<\/em> and taquitos are pretty similar, but the main difference is size \u2013<em>\u00a0flautas<\/em> are smaller than <em>taquitos<\/em>, which use corn tortillas. The size of a <em>flauta<\/em> is comparable to <em>fajitas<\/em> or small <em>quesadillas<\/em>. Check out our recipe for <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/beef-and-vegetable-taquitos\/\">Beef &amp; Vegetable Taquitos<\/a> or these <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/vegan-mushroom-taquitos\/\">Vegan Mushroom Taquitos<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4>Quesadilla<\/h4>\n<p><em>Quesadilla<\/em>\u00a0is a Mexican dish that has firmly made its way into the stomachs of Westerners. This dish consists of melted cheese, sometimes meat and other fillings,\u00a0 wrapped between tortilla sheets and usually pan-fried to melt the cheese filling. The traditional version is made using corn tortillas, but flour tortillas are also used to make this dish. Try these delicious <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/cheesy-quesadillas-with-roasted-tomato-salsa-guacamole\/\">Cheesy Quesadillas with Roasted Tomato Salsa and Guacamole<\/a>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3>Sauces &amp; Sides<\/h3>\n<p>Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/your-saucy-guide-to-different-types-of-sauces\/\">saucy guide<\/a> for more.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-92970\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/mex-cuisine_sauces_sides-1x560-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/mex-cuisine_sauces_sides-1x560-1.jpeg 1000w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/mex-cuisine_sauces_sides-1x560-1-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/mex-cuisine_sauces_sides-1x560-1-940x526.jpeg 940w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4>Chile Relleno<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/avocado-and-cream-cheese-chilli-poppers\/?cat=mexican-global-foods\">Chilli poppers<\/a> are the milder Tex-Mex version of <em>chile relleno<\/em>, with the cream cheese filling tempering the heat. These delicious fried and stuffed chillies are traditionally made using minced meat and <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/a-flaming-guide-different-types-of-chillies\/\">poblano peppers<\/a>, which originate from Puebla, but other chillies such as jalape\u00f1o and pasilla are acceptable too. The chillies are charred before being stuffed, then coated with an egg mixture, dipped in flour, deep-fried and served with tomato salsa.<\/p>\n<h4>Elotes<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/street-food-inspired-recipes\/\">Street food<\/a> is a pretty big part of Mexican cuisine and <em>elotes<\/em> is one of the most popular street food dishes you can buy. It\u2019s a whole corn cob that is drizzled in a creamy mayo sauce and doused with chilli powder, lime juice of course and sprinkled with Cotija cheese. Yum!<\/p>\n<h4>Esquites<\/h4>\n<p><em>Esquites<\/em> are basically <em>elotes<\/em>, without the cob and in salad form. <em>Esquites<\/em> have a lovely smoky, sweet, spicy and tangy flavour \u2013 given by the mayo, zesty lime, creamy cojita cheese, garlic and chilli powder mix.<\/p>\n<h4>Guacamole<\/h4>\n<p>This classic Mexican spread and dip has taken the world by storm and as a result, there are many variations. Some prefer it chunky and others, smooth, but traditionally <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/25-game-changing-guacamole-recipes-that-you-have-to-try\/\">guacamole<\/a> is prepared simply. The authentic Mexican style is made by mashing avocado, adding chopped white onion, diced tomato, coriander, and lime juice and salt for seasoning.<\/p>\n<h4>Mole<\/h4>\n<p>This sauce packs a lot of punchy bold flavours, given by ancho chillies, nuts, black pepper, cumin and cinnamon and rich, dark chocolate.<em> Mole<\/em> means \u2018sauce\u2019 \u2013 there are a plethora of moles (roja, verde, poblano, etc), but the one made with chocolate (traditionally served with chicken) is the most popular.<\/p>\n<h4>Pico de Gallo<\/h4>\n<p><em>Pico de gallo<\/em> means \u2018beak of rooster\u2019 and although it doesn\u2019t actually contain chicken, it was given this name due to the manner in which it is consumed \u2013 pinching your forefingers and thumb together, i.e. \u2018make sousies\u2019 \u2013 the same way you would eat curry. <em>Pico de gallo<\/em> is also referred to as <i>salsa fresca<\/i> and can be likened to <i>sambal<\/i>. It consists of a mixture of chopped fresh tomato, onion, chillies (serrano pepper), salt, lime juice and coriander, and is used as a refreshing topping for most Mexican dishes.<\/p>\n<h4>Pipi\u00e1n<\/h4>\n<p><em>Pipi\u00e1n<\/em> is a specific type of mole that incorporates blended tomatillos, serrano chillies and white onion. Although pipi\u00e1n is simpler to prepare, what makes it unique is the incorporation of toasted pumpkin or squash seeds \u2013 compared to the peanuts, pine nuts or sesame seeds used to make a standard <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/your-saucy-guide-to-different-types-of-sauces\/\">mole<\/a>. <em>Pipi\u00e1n<\/em> has a rather distinct \u2018nutty\u2019 flavour, with some versions including dark chocolate. It\u2019s traditionally served over roasted <i>pollos<\/i> (chicken) or enchiladas. <em>Pipi\u00e1n verde<\/em> (green) is more popular than <em>pipi\u00e1n roja<\/em> (red), but they\u2019re equally delicious.<\/p>\n<h4>Salsa Roja<\/h4>\n<p><em>Salsa roja<\/em> is the red and hotter version of <em>salsa verde<\/em>. In Mexican cuisine, red plum tomatoes, white onion, <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/guide-different-types-of-chillies\/\">serrano chillies<\/a>, cilantro and garlic are used.<\/p>\n<h4>Salsa Taquera<\/h4>\n<p><em>Salsa taquera<\/em> is typically used as a sauce for tacos. This spicy and garlicky sauce is either made using a mortar and pestle, but modern versions use a blender to pulse the ingredients. <em>Salsa taquera<\/em> is made using Chiles de \u00c1rbol, garlic, salt, water and plum tomatoes \u2013 some variations contain tomatillos, which are similar to tomatoes but they actually come from an entirely different nightshade plant.<\/p>\n<p>Interestingly, tomatillos are more closely related to Cape gooseberries, which makes sense since they also have a dry outer husk. Some people think that tomatillos refer to unripened tomatoes because they\u2019re green, but they remain green even when ripe, with some turning yellow. Tomatillos are more tart and vegetal in taste than standard tomatoes. Whether you use tomatoes or tomatillos in your <em>salsa taquera<\/em>, this sauce delivers loads of flavour.<\/p>\n<h4>Salsa Verde<\/h4>\n<p><em>Salsa verde<\/em> is made from cooked down tomatillos (ripe green tomatoes), onion and jalape\u00f1os, which are pulsed in a blender along with lime juice, garlic and fresh coriander, with oil as a base ingredient. <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/?s=salsa+verde\">Salsa verde<\/a> is a refreshing element used as a dressing for steak and seafood dishes.<\/p>\n<h4>Tamales<\/h4>\n<p><em>Tamales<\/em> are a traditional Mexican dish and when we say \u2018traditional\u2019, we mean this very dish was enjoyed by ancient Mesoamericans \u2013 the earliest evidence of this dish is 8000BC. <em>Tamales<\/em> are made using masa, which is a nixtamalized corn dough, which is then steamed in corn husk or banana leaf\u00a0 \u2013 a common preparation of food in Asian cuisine too. Tamales can be enjoyed as is or filled with meats, cheese, veggies, herbs and even fruit.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3>Soups &amp; Stews<\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-92971\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pozole_soups-and-stews-1x560-1.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pozole_soups-and-stews-1x560-1.jpeg 1000w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pozole_soups-and-stews-1x560-1-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pozole_soups-and-stews-1x560-1-940x526.jpeg 940w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h4>Albondigas<\/h4>\n<p><em>Albondigas<\/em> are Spanish meatballs from northern Mexico. They\u2019re made using rice as a binding agent and are seasoned with garlic, coriander and cumin. They\u2019re usually found in albondigas soup. The albondigas (meatballs) are cooked in tomato and chicken stock, along with vegetables like carrots, green beans, peas and zucchini.<\/p>\n<h4>Birria<\/h4>\n<p><em>Birria<\/em> originates from the state of Jalisco, Mexico which is also famous for its mariachi music and <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/get-to-know-your-tequila\/\">tequila<\/a>. <em>Birria<\/em> is a delicious stew or soup traditionally made from goat\u2019s meat (birria de chivo) but also made using beef, veal, lamb or pork. It\u2019s steeped in flavour thanks to the combination of adobo, garlic, cumin, bay leaves and thyme. Because goat is a gamier meat, this dish requires a lot of time and is slow-cooked to get that fall-off-the-bone texture.<\/p>\n<h4>Sopa Azteca<\/h4>\n<p>Although the name of this soup implies it has Aztec origins, it isn&#8217;t certain; some say it has Tarascan influences. <em>Sopa Azteca<\/em> basically means \u2018tortilla soup\u2019 and is a Mexican staple dish that\u2019s packed with flavour. Many variations of <em>sopa Azteca<\/em> exist, but more popular versions include chicken broth, roasted tomatoes, onion and garlic and the main ingredient \u2013 crispy fried tortilla strips that are dipped into the soup.<\/p>\n<h4>Pozole<\/h4>\n<p>Most countries have a national dish and dessert, but because Mexico\u2019s culture is largely centred around food, they have a plethora of dishes, including a national soup \u2013 <em>pozole<\/em>. Many variations exist, but the staples are meat, hominy corn and toppings (cabbage, radish, avocado and more).<\/p>\n<h4>Pozole de Pollo o Guajolote<\/h4>\n<p><em>Pozole de pollo o guajolote<\/em> is definitely one of the most popular dishes in Mexican cuisine. It\u2019s the epitome of comfort food, and families normally make it in big batches and savour it for days to come. Traditionally made with chicken and wild turkey \u2013 the chicken and hominy corn really shine in this dish. Starting with braising rib meat, garlic, yellow onion and guajillo peppers, these ingredients gently simmer in chicken stock \u2013 along with chicken, turkey and hominy corn. It\u2019s garnished with an array of fresh toppings like cabbage, radish, coriander, lime and avocado.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3>Meat Dishes<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/mexican-tuna-ceviche-with-guacamole-salsa-and-nachos\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-64354\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/old-el-paso-ceviche-1x56.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/old-el-paso-ceviche-1x56.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/old-el-paso-ceviche-1x56-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/old-el-paso-ceviche-1x56-940x526.jpg 940w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Aguachile<\/h4>\n<p><em>Aguachile<\/em> literally means \u2018water chilli\u2019 and is a Mexican ceviche that hails from the state of Sinaloa, northern Mexico. It\u2019s made using raw shrimp and or scallops, which are cured in lime juice. The shrimp is usually left to marinate in the lime juice for 20 to 30 minutes, when done, the shrimp actually changes colour from translucent white meat to a pinkish colour. It\u2019s also called &#8216;agua&#8217; for a reason, the lime juice used should be enough for your shrimp\/scallops to swim in. <em>Aguachile<\/em> is garnished with cucumber and chillies, which complement the seafood flavours in this dish.<\/p>\n<h4>Camarones a la Diabla<\/h4>\n<p>Seafood and chilli lovers will go loco for this dish \u2013 <em>camarones a la diabla<\/em>, otherwise known as \u2018shrimp of the devil\u2019 and for good reason! The large shrimp are cooked in a fiery sauce of dried chillies (guajillo chile, chipotle chile, chile de \u00e1rbole, ancho chile), making it one massive flavour bomb. It also uses butter, olive oil and cooked-down tomatoes. When simmered in the spicy sauce, the shrimp become plump and deliciously seasoned.<\/p>\n<h4>Carnitas<\/h4>\n<p><em>Carnitas<\/em> translates to \u2018little meats\u2019 and is probably one of the most well-known Mexican dishes all around the world \u2013 except most restaurant menus call it \u2019pulled pork\u2019. The only difference is that in Mexican cuisine, it\u2019s seasoned with more spices. It\u2019s traditionally made with pork shoulder or <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/a-guide-to-pork-prime-cuts-a-cut-above-the-rest\/\">Boston butts<\/a>, due to the high-fat content, which helps make it deliciously succulent. The meat is braised and slow-cooked in pig lard (asiento) for three to four hours. <em>Carnitas<\/em> is usually served with coriander, onion and tortillas.<\/p>\n<h4>Ceviche<\/h4>\n<p><em>Ceviche<\/em> is a popular dish in many parts of South America but actually <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/perus-golden-child-ceviche\/\">originated in Peru<\/a>. It\u2019s made using raw fish or shrimp, which is cured in citrus juice, lemon or lime. When it comes to ceviche, the type of fish used is important. Typically, firm\/lean white fish is best \u2013 making sea bass, sole, red snapper and line fish good choices. In South Africa, ceviche can be made with salmon or yellowtail. We make ours with <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/mexican-tuna-ceviche-with-guacamole-salsa-and-nachos\/\">tuna and a side of guacamole, salsa and nachos<\/a> \u2013 but we have a bunch of <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/?s=ceviche\">ceviche recipes<\/a> for you to enjoy.<\/p>\n<h4>Frijoles Puercos<\/h4>\n<p><em>Frijoles puercos<\/em> is a flavourful Mexican dish. <i>Frijoles<\/i>, meaning \u2018beans\u2019 and <i>puerco<\/i> meaning \u2018pig\u2019, but those aren\u2019t the only two ingredients required \u2013 chorizo, olives, smoky chile pepper and <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/stock-mexican-pantry-mexican-ingredients\/\">queso Oaxaca<\/a> are also used. It\u2019s usually served as a dip and eaten with tortilla chips.<\/p>\n<h4>Machaca<\/h4>\n<p>To put it in relatable terms, <em>machaca<\/em> is similar in texture to beef biltong. This meat dish was originally created as a means to preserve meat for longer periods of time when fresh beef was not easily available. The raw meat is seasoned and marinated with minced garlic, ground pepper and sea salt before being dried in sunlight and broken down into little chunks. The dehydrated meat is then stored and when ready to use; it\u2019s rehydrated by saut\u00e9ing or adding it to tomato sauce\/salsa and used as a burrito filling.<\/p>\n<h4>Pescado Zarandeado<\/h4>\n<p>This fish dish hails from Nayarit, being a coastal state, it\u2019s famous for its seafood. <em>Pescado zarandeado<\/em> is basically the Mexican version of a <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/braai-whole-yellowtail-with-rocket-salad-creamy-greek-dressing\/\">fish braai<\/a>. The fish is particularly piquant, thanks to the blended chilli, garlic, onion and oregano mixture, which is pulsed and reduced to make a delicious sauce. Once cleaned, deveined and butterflied, the fish is basted with the sauce and smoke-grilled using mesquite. The fish is continually basted to ensure that it\u2019s well seasoned, making the exterior slightly charred.<\/p>\n<h4>Torta Ahogoda<\/h4>\n<p>Another Mexican dish that belongs to the state of Jalisco, <em>torta ahogoda<\/em>, is a pork-filled sandwich, but it&#8217;s also so much more than that. The pork is marinated in garlic and citrus juices, which helps balance the flavour of the salsa it\u2019s drenched in. Yes, this sandwich is laden with fiery salsa, using one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/a-flaming-guide-different-types-of-chillies\/\">strongest peppers<\/a>, chile de \u00c1rbol. The salsa is then mixed with a tomato sauce and vinegar, cumin, pepper and more spices because you can never have enough. Interestingly, <em>torta ahogodas<\/em> are considered to remedy colds, hangovers and \u2018sweating out infections\u2019.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3>Desserts<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/churros-with-a-shot-of-hot-chocolate\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-61244\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/CHS-Churros_header.jpg\" alt=\"CHS Dinner party winners\" width=\"1000\" height=\"560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/CHS-Churros_header.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/CHS-Churros_header-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/CHS-Churros_header-940x526.jpg 940w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Arroz con Leche<\/h4>\n<p><em>Arroz con leche<\/em>, meaning \u2018rice with milk\u2019 is Mexican rice pudding. Long-grain rice is cooked in a mixture of water and milk, and cinnamon sticks for a hint of spice. To make it deliciously creamy, it\u2019s sweetened with condensed and evaporated milk, raisins are added to the mix and it\u2019s dusted with ground cinnamon before serving.<\/p>\n<h4>Churros<\/h4>\n<p>If vetkoek had a skinnier sister who spent a semester abroad in Spain, her name would be C<em>hurros<\/em>. This sweet treat is simply irresistible! <em>Churros<\/em> are deep-fried till golden brown, coated with cinnamon-sugar mix and dipped or filled with dark chocolate. This <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/national-treasures-traditional-desserts-pastries-from-around-the-world\/\">traditional Latin American dessert<\/a> is also enjoyed in Portugal, France and the USA. Make this delectable treat with our <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/el-burro-churros-with-dark-chocolate-sauce\/\">El Burro Churros with Dark Chocolate Sauce<\/a> recipe.<\/p>\n<h4>Conchas<\/h4>\n<p><em>Conchas<\/em>, meaning \u2018shell\u2019 is a sweet bread with a shell-shaped surface eaten Mexican cuisine. <em>Conchas<\/em> come in different flavours such as vanilla, chocolate, cinnamon and anise, while others are more traditional without flavouring. They\u2019re enjoyed at any time of the day and not exclusively for dessert.<\/p>\n<h4>Goritas de Nata<\/h4>\n<p><em>Goritas de nata<\/em> are clotted cream biscuits and are a mix between English muffins and Japanese pancakes. It\u2019s made with flour, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, wheat, milk, baking powder and soda.<\/p>\n<h4>Flan<\/h4>\n<p>This delicious dessert is also called <em>cr\u00e8me caramel<\/em> and is one of the most delicious desserts you\u2019ll ever have. <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/creme-renversee-au-caramel-creme-caramel\/\">Flan<\/a> is an egg-based custard using condensed milk, sugar, cream or whole milk. The beauty of flan lies in the velvety texture and the syrupy sauce that drips off the sides. You could make it with orange syrup, coffee or caramel sauce.<\/p>\n<h4>Fresca con Crema<\/h4>\n<p>Strawberries and cream in a cup? Yes please! <em>Fresca con crema<\/em> is similar to <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/eton-mess\/\">Eton Mess<\/a>, but this Mexican version is made using fresh strawberries, as well as heavy cream sweetened with condensed and evaporated milk.<\/p>\n<h4>Paletas<\/h4>\n<p>With the heat of the Mexican sun, it would make sense to have a refreshing treat to cool the palate. <em>Paletas<\/em> is an ice lolly enjoyed by people of all ages; flavours typically include strawberry, mango and chocolate.<\/p>\n<h4>Sopaipillas<\/h4>\n<p>Another favourite, <em>sopaipillas<\/em> are light deep-fried tasty pockets of puffed pastry. Simple, but it\u2019s the ultimate winter treat and is usually served with honey or dusted with icing sugar.<\/p>\n<h4>Tres Leches<\/h4>\n<p><em>Tres leches<\/em> meaning \u2018three milk\u2019 tells us how this dessert is prepared. Holes are poked into the baked sponge cake and a sauce is poured over it. The sauce is made using three types of milk-based ingredients \u2013 heavy cream, evaporated milk and condensed milk. Whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon are added to this light, fluffy and moist milk cake.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3>Drinks<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rir-row\"><div class=\"rir-cols-2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/watermelon-crowd-pleaser-cocktail\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/Watermelon_400x6002.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"rir-cols-2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/horchata\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/cocktails_horchata_400x600-1.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<h4>Agua Fresca<\/h4>\n<p>This fruit drink is a Mexican fave \u2013 made by blending water, lime juice and fresh fruit (usually watermelon). It\u2019s a tasty way to hydrate during summer. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/watermelon-crowd-pleaser-cocktail\/?cat=drinks-dish-type\">recipe for agua fresca<\/a> is more \u2018adult\u2019 and contains rum, coconut water and watermelon.<\/p>\n<h4>Horchata<\/h4>\n<p><em>Horchata<\/em> isn\u2019t one specific drink but refers to a type of rice drink. The rice is blended with a cinnamon stick and soaked in water overnight. The rice grains and cinnamon sticks are then removed and the remaining liquid is mixed with vanilla, sugar and ground cinnamon. Some versions contain animal milk, but it\u2019s mostly plant-based, as is our <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/horchata\/?cat=drinks-dish-type\">recipe for Horchata<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"rir-row\"><div class=\"rir-cols-2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/classic-margarita\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/Mexican-cocktails_margurita_400x600.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"rir-cols-2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/paloma\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/cocktails_paloma_400x600-1.jpg\" \/><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<h4>Margaritas<\/h4>\n<p>This classic cocktail is made using tequila, lime juice, triple sec, shaken and served with a salted glass rim to enhance the flavour of the tequila. Try our <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/classic-margarita\/?cat=drinks-dish-type\">classic margarita recipe<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4>Paloma<\/h4>\n<p>A <em>Paloma<\/em> is one of the most popular cocktails and is made using reposado tequila or any quality tequila. It\u2019s usually enjoyed as a refreshing drink during warm summer months and contains freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice and soda water. Our version of <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe\/paloma\/?cat=drinks-dish-type\">Paloma<\/a> is made using grapefruit cordial.<\/p>\n<p>Feeling inspired to recreate some of these dishes? Stock your pantry with these <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/17-essential-ingredients-for-stocking-a-mexican-pantry\/\">essentials<\/a> then try these <a href=\"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/recipe-type\/mexican-global-foods\/\">Mexican-inspired recipes<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Don\u2019t know your flautas from your fajitas? Or your empanadas from your enchiladas? Well, you\u2019ve come to the right lugar, that\u2019s Spanish for \u2018place\u2019. Mexican cuisine is filled with a host of vibrant, flavourful and endless food possibilities, but this can be a little confusing if you\u2019re a gringo. This comprehensive guide includes different types of Mexican dishes ranging from tortilla-based dishes, sauces, sides, soups, stews, desserts and drinks. We dive into all the different types of spectacular regional dishes [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8133,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4098],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-92966","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-general"],"acf":[],"brand_slug":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/92966","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8133"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=92966"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/92966\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":93067,"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/92966\/revisions\/93067"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=92966"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=92966"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/test10.co.za\/C\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=92966"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}