When you hear about Mexico, you probably think you know all about Mexican cuisine. After all, you probably knew back then a local restaurant that specialized in Mexican cuisine like tacos, enchiladas and burritos.
However, you might be surprised to discover that there is a whole other type of food that includes sweet potatoes, desserts and even grasshoppers! If you want to get to know Mexico a lot better, learn more about the different types of foods you can experience here.
Camote
While most people don’t think of sweet potatoes when they think of Mexican cuisine, they’re so common that they have their own recipe. Camote is a side dish that combines sweet potatoes, honey, butter and cinnamon in a casserole. The end result is slightly sweet and entirely delicious.
Chapulines
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try chapulines, if you can catch them! Chapulines are grasshoppers and they’re lightly fried in oil that’s been flavored with onions, chilis and garlic. Before cooking, the wings and legs are removed (which helps since many people report that the wings and legs can become stuck in their teeth).
Chapulines are an excellent source of protein and can be eaten on their own or as a filling for a taco. Just don’t forget to squeeze some fresh lime juice over them for the best taste.
Nopalitos
Nopalitos are plants, and more specifically, they’re the pads of the prickly pear cactus.
They’re considered a vegetable and are often boiled or grilled. However, take care not to over cook them, as they can become a little slimy. They’re often eaten in soups, salads, with eggs or as a taco filling.
Cecina
Many people are surprised to discover that Cecina is somewhat like beef jerky. However, the Mexican cuisine version can be made from pork, as well as beef. The meat is pounded until it is thin and then covered with chopped chilis before it’s laid out in the sun to dry. If done correctly, the meat is tender, but if it’s cooked incorrectly the end result is tough and chewy.
Plátanos
Most people have heard of Dulce de leche, Flan and Empanadas, but do you know what Plátanos are? If you’re faced with one of these on a menu, definitely take advantage of them!
Plátanos are plantains, which most people mistakenly think will taste like bananas. While they look similar, they taste completely different. To cook them, you just need to peel, cut and then lightly fry them in hot oil.
You’ve probably seen plátanos in the Mexican section of your grocery store, but these are not the same thing! The plátanos you’ll get when you visit Mexico are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, nothing like the rock hard versions you sometimes find in the grocery store.
If you want to get to know Mexico a lot better, learn more about different types of foods you can experience here.
Other Types Of Mexican Cuisine
Life in Mexico isn’t complete without sampling a wide variety of the Mexican cuisine. Other less known, but delicious dishes include Escamoles, Chilaquiles, Mixiotes, Papadzules, Caldo de pollo and more. If you’re out at a restaurant , ask your waiter or waitress to recommend specialty dishes that the restaurant is known for.
Chances are good that you’ll be able to sample some Mexican cuisine that you’ve never heard of before and that you’ll go home with a new appreciation for the types of foods you uncovered on your vacations.
Article written by:
Stephen Franson
Travel Enthusiast
Aeroméxico
