8 of 13

Write now Article Tools

The flavors of Mexico are as broad and bountiful as the land from which they came. As a Mexican American I can say that I have tasted many of the flavors of my mother land, and to this day have yet to have savored all the flavors of my people.

Many of the ingredients that are used in true Mexican dishes are not native to Mexico, but were brought to Mexico by the Spanish Conquistadors. The dishes known today are a blend of Spanish ingredients with the native Aztec ingredients and way of cooking.

The one thing that is originally from Mexico is Maize or what is known as corn. It is the staple food of Mexico. You may say that Maize is to Mexico as Wheat is to The United States. Maize is not like the corn found in The U.S; it has a flavor all unto itself. It is not sweet like the corn in America. It is used in every thing from Tamales to Tortillas and is found in many Soups such as Menudo pronounced men-oo-doh, or Posole pronounced po-so-leh both of which I will describe in detail after I cover some of the basic ingredients used in the food of my Roots. All of these foods are different in every region of Mexico. The thing that does not change is the use of Maize. Maize is a versatile ingredient; with out it Mexican food would not be what it is now.

Many people here in the U.S are also under the impression that Mexican food is covered in yellow cheese. This could not be further from the truth. Any food that is covered in yellow cheese is considered Americanized or as we who live in Texas call it, TEX-MEX.

I'll begin by giving you an idea on the use of cheese in Mexican dishes. Although cheese has become another staple food in Mexico, it is usually used as a garnish. When the Spaniards brought the art of cheese making to Mexico they did not know that the climate of Mexico would not be conducive to the way cheese was made in Europe. This resulted in cheeses that are white and soft, more crumbly. There are some aged cheeses that are hard such as queso anejo, which is very similar in taste and texture to the European Parmesan cheese. All of these cheeses are as white as the milk that they are made from.

Cilantro and Peppers are also favorite ingredients in Mexican cooking. Because of the climate in Mexico, peppers flourish there. Although peppers flourish in Mexico, they are not always used as a source of heat. There are a wide variety of peppers used in Mexican dishes and condiments. Peppers are used in many dishes, but not all peppers used are hot, therefore not all

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Beginner's guide to the flavors of Mexico?
We want to hear your view. Write now!