Do you love Mexican cuisine as much as we do? Do you often find yourself craving a spicy enchilada or a big burrito to fill you up? Well, we are not surprised. However, it’s important to know that there is more to Mexican food than just a spicy flavor palette. We bring to you some interesting Mexican food facts that you probably have never heard of before.
Mexican cuisine is a tantalizing fusion of flavors, colors, and traditions that has captured the minds and taste buds of people around the world, and its fans continue to grow. From street tacos to elaborate mole sauces, Mexican food is as diverse as the country itself. Rooted in a rich and diverse culture, Mexican food has a fascinating history and an abundance of interesting facts that make it a subject worth exploring.
Mexican cuisine is a culinary treasure trove known for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and diverse ingredients. In this article, we will dive into the rich tapestry of Mexican culinary culture and uncover ten fascinating Mexican food facts that will leave you hungry for more.
10 Mexican Food Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About
1. UNESCO Heritage
Mexican cuisine is linked with a ton of Mexican food culture facts. In 2010, UNESCO declared traditional Mexican food an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This award helped the world recognize the cultural significance and diversity of Mexican food. It underlined the importance of traditional Mexican cooking techniques, ingredients, and culinary traditions.
2. Ancient Roots
Mexican cuisine has strong origins in pre-Columbian cultures, with ingredients such as corn, beans, and chilies dating back thousands of years. These foundational ingredients, which still form the basis of Mexican cuisine today, were developed with the help of the Aztecs and Maya. Corn, in particular, is important to Mexican cuisine, appearing in everything from tortillas to tamales.
3. The Holy Trinity of Mexican Cuisine
When we talk about Mexican food facts, we cannot forget about the holy trinity. The ‘holy trinity’, also known as the ‘three sisters’ are fundamental ingredients in Mexican cooking. When it comes to Mexican flavors, the “holy trinity” consists of corn, beans, and squash.
These three ingredients are considered sacred and have been cultivated together for centuries. They are not only nutritionally rich but also symbolize harmony and unity in Mexican culture. If you visit authentic Mexican restaurants, you’ll find their menu dominated by a variety of corn, beans, and squash.
4. A World of Salsas
Salsa, which translates to “sauce” in Spanish, is a staple of Mexican cuisine. There are hundreds of salsa flavors to choose from, ranging from mild pico de gallo to hot habanero salsa. Salsas bring flavor and spice to foods and are an important component of the Mexican culinary experience.
If you love a good salsa but are bored of having it with plain chips, try the fried pork skins at Blue Agave. It’s served with a side of salsa Verde and will have you gobbling down every last bite.
5. The Birthplace of Chocolate
When we think about Mexican food, we instantly imagine hot chilies and lime. Well, while Mexican cuisine is dominated by these hot flavors, it’s also home to the best dessert ingredient to ever exist.
Chocolate has a deep-rooted history in Mexico, as it was first cultivated by the ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations. The Aztecs also used cacao beans as currency. Today, Mexican chocolate is celebrated for its rich, slightly bitter flavor and is used in various dishes, including mole and hot chocolate.
6. Mole: A Complex Delight
When we say mole, we are not talking about the animal. Mole, pronounced “moh-lay,” is a famous Mexican sauce known for its complexity and depth of flavor. It’s made from a blend of chilies, spices, chocolate, and other ingredients, depending on the region. There are several types of mole, with mole poblano being one of the most well-known. It’s often served with chicken and is a must-try for any food enthusiast.
7. A Feast for Día de los Muertos
The Day of the Dead, or Da de los Muertos, is a Mexican holiday commemorated on November 1st and 2nd to honor lost loved ones. Families decorate their altars with marigolds, candles, and skulls made from sugar. During this lively event, traditional delicacies like pan de muerto (dead bread) and tamales are prepared and devoured.
8. Home To A Few Unusual Dishes
Mexican cuisine consists of a variety of unusual Mexican food options that are not as famous but just as delicious as popular favorites. In some regions of Mexico, particularly Oaxaca, grasshoppers called chapulines are a popular snack. They are often seasoned with chili, lime, and salt, offering a crunchy and flavorful experience.
Similarly, huitlacoche, also known as the “Mexican truffle,” is a fungus that grows on corn. Despite its odd appearance, it is prized for its earthy and savory flavor and is used in various dishes. Furthermore, escamoles are ant larvae, often referred to as “insect caviar.” They have a buttery, nutty taste and are considered a delicacy in Mexican cuisine.
9. Taco Heaven
Tacos are undoubtedly the most well-known street food in Mexico. Tacos come in a wide range of flavors, from simple street taco stalls to sophisticated taco restaurants. There’s a taco for every taste, whether you want carne asada (grilled beef), al pastor (marinated pork), or vegetarian options.
They are extremely customizable and give you choices like soft shell or hard shell. Additionally, you can also control the spice levels if burning your tongue from the heat is not your goal.
10. The Joy of Street Food
The last fact in our box of Mexican cuisine facts has to be the diverse Mexican street food. Mexico’s inventive cuisine is evident in its street food. Mexican streets are a food lover’s paradise, with everything from elotes (grilled corn on the cob) slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili to churros (fried dough sticks coated with cinnamon and sugar). Trying street cuisine is an important aspect of getting to know Mexico’s culture and flavors.
Conclusion
Mexican food is rich in history, culture, and yummy flavors. It continues to enchant the taste buds of people all over the world, from its long history to its present-day culinary inventions. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of rich mole, indulging in street tacos, or sipping on a glass of tequila, Mexican food offers an endless journey of delicious discovery. So, the next time you sit down to eat a Mexican dinner, remember these ten amazing Mexican food facts. If you live in Houston and wish to enjoy an authentic Mexican dining experience, then come and check us out at Blue Agave Houston. We promise that once you walk out those doors, you’ll know why Mexican cuisine is one of the best in the world. Come dine with us and give us a call to cater your private event.