by Jeannie Trudell

Created on: January 05, 2008   Last Updated: September 16, 2010

Mexican theme potlucks are a great opportunity to sample many wonderful Mexican flavors. Easy to handle finger foods and small sandwiches always do well. In this article I will share with you some of my favorite recipes that are always a hit at a Mexican potluck.

Carnitas

1 boneless pork butt - cut into 1" cubes
2 cloves of garlic

Rub pork cubes with garlic and place in buttered 13x9 pan. Add 1/4 inch of water to the pan, cover tightly with foil and bake in 350 degree oven for 45 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake until all the liquid is absorbed. Serve with warm tortillas and a good red chili sauce.

These are effortless, but delicious. Crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.

Mexican pork sandwiches

2 packages bolillo rolls - these can be found at most grocery stores. Ask the bakery for them.
2 lbs shredded pork - cook pork butt roast 7-8 hours in crock pot till it shreds easily. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin to taste.
1 can refried beans
4 ounce chorizo sausage
24 slices asadero cheese (Monterey Jack will do)
Sliced avocado
1 can Chipotle Sauce - available in Mexican grocery aisle

Cook chorizo and add the canned refried beans. Split the bolillos and spread the bottom bun with chorizo/bean mixture. Top with shredded pork. Spoon chipotle sauce over pork. Top with avocado slices then sliced cheese. Top with bun and wrap in foil. Place wrapped sandwiches in preheated 350 degree oven and heat for 20-30 minutes until cheese melts. Keep warm until ready to serve.

I know it sounds like a lot of work but these really are delicious.

Mexican bedrolls

6 flour tortillas
1 package of cream cheese - softened
1 can diced green chilies
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can diced black olives

Warm tortillas slightly in microwave to soften. Spread each tortilla with cream cheese to the edges. Sprinkle each tortilla with cheese, chilies, and olives. Roll tortilla tightly and wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1/2 hour. Remove from fridge and slice into 1/2" slices and place on serving plate.

Taco Chicken Wings

12 whole chicken wings
1/3 cup flour
1/3 cup cornmeal
2 packages dry taco seasoning

Cut chicken wings into sections, discarding the wing tips. In large resealable bag combine dry ingredients. Add chicken wings to coating a few at a time and shake until coated. Place coated wings on a greased baking sheet. Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 50-55 minutes.

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