Commonly Used in Authentic Mexican Dishes
A variety of fresh vegetables and herbs are common in authentic Mexican cuisine. Tomatoes, avocados, corn, and jalapeno peppers are staples in many dishes. Depending on the region, other vegetables are also used to season or add a bit of flavor. Green herbs like sage, oregano, and basil are found in many recipes. These herbs can be dried or purchased fresh in Mexican markets or spice stores. They can be steamed, fried, or added raw in salads and stews.
Chipotle chilies are another popular ingredient in Authentic Mexican Food. They add a spicy kick to tacos, enchiladas, and other dishes. The seeds are toasted, ground, or fried to release their flavor. Dried and smoked Jalapeno peppers are another way to add a little spice to your dish. They can be sliced or pickled to add more depth of flavor to your Mexican meal.
Tomatoes are a common addition to salsa, rice dishes, and other Mexican meals. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, and they are low in calories. Beans are another essential element in Mexican cuisine. Both black beans and pinto beans are often refried to make them even more delicious. They can be cooked in soups and topped with salsa or mole sauce for a flavorful and hearty Mexican meal.
What Ingredients Are Commonly Used in Authentic Mexican Dishes?
Cornmeal is also a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine. This is a great alternative to white flour in tortillas and burritos. It also adds texture to the dishes, making them more satisfying. Typical Mexican spices are paprika, chili powder, garlic, salt, cumin, oregano, and cilantro. These herbs and spices are typically steamed or sauteed with other ingredients to bring out their unique flavors.
Crema is a thick Mexican cream similar to French creme fraiche that’s used to garnish tacos, enchiladas, or other dishes. It’s found in larger grocery stores and is a key ingredient to many traditional Mexican recipes. Lime is a must-have ingredient for any Mexican kitchen. It’s the final step in finishing a taco, topping a bowl of salsa, or adding a little zest to any dish that needs a boost of acidity and brightness.
Aside from limes, other common ingredients are onions, nopales (prickly pear paddles), cilantro, and cornmeal. These are all easy to find at most grocery stores and make a great addition to any Mexican meal. Salsa is one of the most important side ingredients in authentic Mexican cooking. This bright red salsa is more popular in America than mayonnaise or ketchup, and it’s a great way to add fresh flavor to a meal.
Frijoles de la Olla, or “beans in a pot,” is another classic Mexican dish that can be made at home. It’s a great option for a quick and filling meal, and it beats canned salsa any day. Tamales are a Mexican comfort food that is commonly eaten during special occasions or fiestas. They come in savory or sweet fillings and can be topped with salsa or mole sauce.