If you read a map of Mexico, you will see quite a few different areas. In the center of the country, you will see several different mountain ranges that essentially separate the western part of the country from the eastern areas. The central highland plains are home to a sizeable portion of the population, while both the Gulf and Pacific coasts are established resort areas. If we look at the southeast compared to the northwest, the Yucatan Peninsula is extremely different from Baja California. This mixture is reflected in the cultures of the towns, the different climates and microclimates and the cuisines of the inhabitants.
Let’s reflect on some of these varied regional diets and try to understand how some of these Mexican recipes materialized. In the central plains, people love the native flavors, local versions of Spanish tapas, and are famous for making salsa. The sauce is used in different ways when cooking enchiladas, tacos, and in the filling of tortillas.
On the Gulf Coasts, as you might imagine, recipes are often derived from shellfish, such as snapper, crawfish, crab, and shrimp. A favorite breakfast dish is tamales, which here are fish wrapped in a banana leaf. Tamales are also prevalent on the Pacific coast, where crayfish and shrimp are commonly grilled over charcoal.
You might think that fish would also participate in the staple diet of the Yucatan Peninsula, but there are enthusiastic traditions associated with Spanish influences and Mayan culture in this area. Pork is often used in dishes that are served with a sweet and sour sauce and you will see the use of limes, lemons and oranges being added to fish recipes with crab, octopus and squid for sensational flavor.
If we travel to the extreme north of Mexico we find a preference for red meat. This is a cattle ranching area, after all, and the locals cook the meat well and have it quickly grilled, fried with spices, or in a stew like chili, served with sides and sauces. Here again, fish is imported into the region as an alternative for dinner, and flour tortillas are a regular addition.
In Mexico, the natives love to cook fresh food in a natural way, but they really emphasize the importance of color, flavor, diversity, and spices. Mexican chefs are always determined to ensure that meals are presented well, as we must always remember that we eat with our eyes and with our stomach. If you wish, you can accompany your dinner with some of the special local drinks. Tequila is famous and very popular, but there are also several localized breweries that specialize in beers that are in demand around the world.
When you want to find Mexican food, you can certainly find a wide range of options based on local specialties. Sure, you can come up with a different style for each night of the week and still enjoy a variety of foods that incorporate many ingredients popular in North American culture but with that special Mexican twist to make sure you’ll remember it fondly.