Who doesn't love Mexican food? I crave it at least twice a week with Wednesday's being my big margaritas happy hour day. The combination of citrus and spice always hit the spot. I always keep some Mexican essentials on hand to whip up a meal last minute if I'm truly craving some delicious spicy food with nachos and fajitas being my weaknesses. I've outlined five essentials for a Mexican pantry, but please include any of your essentials in the comments!
dried beans
A major Mexican staple and packed with protein, beans are often prepared by simmering in water, oil and herbs. I like to add 2 bay leaves to the simmering pot. You can also get canned beans and season on your own with garlic, onions and Mexican seasoning.
corn/maize
Maize is the driving force of Mexican cuisine as you make tortillas with it as well as enchiladas, tamales, tacos, stews and desserts like sopapillas. The Mexican cuisine definitely takes full use of the entire corn.
hot peppers
There are over 60 varieties of hot peppers that range in spice from the mild anaheim peppers to the extremely spicy habañeros. They are used in different ways with nachos topped with jalapeños, smoked dishes are cooked with chipotle. Of course you can't forget the chile relleños made of poblanos.
cheese
This is easily my favorite ingredient in any Mexican dish. You have such a great variety and can find the Western equivalents like monterrey jack to mild cheddar. If you're looking for a in-depth look at cheese of Spanish/Mexican cuisine, check out this post.
premium tequila
No bar, Mexican meal or home is complete without some premium tequila. Personally, I prefer Patron to make margaritas. The tequila and lime combination is also a great flavor palate for chicken and seafood.
Mexican recipes from c&é
Oh, the food and candy looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteYum! Mexican food is one of my favorite cuisines. I make "Mexican" food all the time- but it's probably not very authentic! Thanks for these tips, Supal!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite ingredients would have to be cheese and Tequila. ;-) Do you know, I actually don't like Mexican or Spanish food? And might I add that I am half Spanish. Lol. Please don't tell my family! ;-)
ReplyDeleteHahaha! I'm the same with Indian food! No shame there :)
ReplyDeleteDude I make "mexican" food too! Not authentic at all, but it hits the spot. Most important!
ReplyDeleteAgreed! Glad I'm not the only one :)
ReplyDelete