How to Cook Mexican Food

Mexican food! It's loved everywhere. Think tacos, enchiladas, mole... So good! Ever wonder if you could make it at home? This guide is for you. It'll give you the know-how and some ideas. We'll talk ingredients, how to cook, and yummy recipes. Ready for a tasty trip?

Why Cook Mexican Food?

Why bother learning to cook Mexican? Here's why I think you should:

• It's Delicious! Seriously, Mexican food is packed with amazing flavors. All those spices and herbs? Fantastic!
• It's Flexible! Got food issues? No problem! Mexican recipes can be changed to fit what you need.
• It's Cheap! You can make lots of Mexican dishes with stuff that's easy to find and doesn't cost a lot.
• Impress Everyone! Imagine serving amazing, real Mexican food to your friends!
• Learn About a Culture! Food is a great way to learn about Mexico and its history.

Must-Have Mexican Ingredients

Before we start, let's look at some important ingredients. You'll see them a lot!

Chiles

Chiles are super important in Mexican cooking. They come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of hotness. Here are some common ones:

• Ancho Chiles: These are dried poblanos. They're mild and a little fruity.
• Guajillo Chiles: Dried mirasol peppers. Sweet and a bit smoky.
• Pasilla Chiles: Dried chilaca peppers. Taste like raisins!
• Chipotle Chiles: Smoked jalapeños. Spicy and smoky.
• Serrano Peppers: Small and hot. Use them fresh.
• Habanero Peppers: Very hot! Be careful!

Tip: If you're using dried chiles, soak them in hot water first. About 30 minutes should do it. Take out the seeds and stems before using.

Spices and Herbs

Lots of spices and herbs make Mexican food taste so good.

• Cumin: Warm and earthy. Great in chili and tacos.
• Oregano: Mexican oregano tastes a little different than the kind you might be used to.
• Cinnamon: Yes, in savory dishes too! Adds a warm taste.
• Clove: Strong! Often used in mole sauces.
• Coriander: From cilantro. Tastes like citrus.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb for topping dishes.
• Epazote: Strong herb used in bean dishes.

Other Important Stuff

• Tomatoes: For salsas and sauces.
• Onions: The base for many dishes.
• Garlic: Adds a kick!
• Limes: For a sour, bright flavor.
• Avocados: Guacamole, anyone?
• Corn Tortillas: Tacos! Enchiladas!
• Flour Tortillas: Burritos and quesadillas.
• Beans: Black, pinto, kidney... All good!
• Rice: Mexican rice is cooked with tomatoes and onions.
• Cheese: Oaxaca, queso fresco, cotija... Yum!

Mexican Cooking How-Tos

Learn these, and you're on your way to awesome Mexican food.

Toasting Spices

Toast your spices before using them. It makes them taste even better! Just heat them in a dry pan for a few minutes.

Soaking Dried Chiles (Again!)

Remember? Soak those dried chiles! It softens them up.

Making Salsas

Salsas are a must! Tomatoes, chiles, onions... Use a blender, food processor, or even a mortar and pestle.

Making Guacamole

Avocados, onions, cilantro, lime... Use ripe avocados! That's the secret.

Cooking Beans

Stovetop or pressure cooker. Soak them overnight for best results.

Making Rice

Tomatoes, onions, garlic... Rinse the rice first!

Easy Mexican Recipes for Home

Okay, now the fun part! Let's cook!

Easy Guacamole

You have to try this:

1. Mash 3 ripe avocados.
2. Add 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, some chopped serrano peppers (if you want it spicy), and the juice of one lime.
3. Salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve with tortilla chips. Done!

Chicken Enchiladas with Mole Sauce

Chicken enchiladas are the best, especially with mole sauce!

1. Shred some cooked chicken.
2. Dip corn tortillas in warm oil. This makes them soft.
3. Fill each tortilla with chicken and roll them up.
4. Put them in a baking dish and cover with mole sauce.
5. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
6. Top with cheese and onions.

Pork Carnitas

Carnitas are slow-cooked pork. They're super tender.

1. Cut pork shoulder into cubes.
2. Put the pork in a pot and cover with water.
3. Add an onion, some garlic, and an orange.
4. Boil, then simmer for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the pork.
6. Heat a skillet.
7. Cook the pork until crispy.
8. Serve with tortillas and toppings.

Black Bean Soup

Perfect for a chilly day!

1. Soak black beans overnight.
2. Drain the beans and put them in a pot.
3. Add water, onion, garlic, and cumin.
4. Boil, then simmer for 1-2 hours.
5. Puree the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Top with sour cream, cilantro, and avocado.

Mexican Rice

Goes with everything!

1. Rinse the rice.
2. Heat oil in a pan.
3. Cook the rice for a few minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic. Cook for another minute.
5. Add chicken broth and tomato sauce.
6. Boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork.

Tips for Awesome Mexican Cooking

Here are a few things I learned:

• Use Fresh Stuff! Makes a big difference.
• Experiment! Don't be afraid to change things up.
• Start Easy! Don't try to make mole right away.
• Taste as You Go! Add more spices if you need to.
• Spice is Good! But you can make it as hot as you like.
• Learn From the Pros! Watch videos or read cookbooks.

Want to Learn More?

Here's where to find more info:

• Cookbooks: Look for books by Margarita Carrillo Arronte, Rick Bayless, or Diana Kennedy.
• Websites and Blogs: Search for "Mexican recipes" online.
• Cooking Classes: Learn from a chef!
• Go to Mexico! Best way to learn!

In Conclusion...

Cooking Mexican food is so much fun! You'll discover new flavors and make awesome meals. So, get your ingredients and start cooking! You can do it!

Whether you want simple or fancy recipes, this guide is a great start. Have fun cooking!