When you work in food service, it can be surprising who you serve. You might serve a firefighter on their way home from putting out a fire. You might serve hospital workers, artists, musicians, lawyers, and dentists. It's a unique role, but it's a very important one. Everyone needs to eat, and so everyone really needs food service. We like to write about food service on this blog, and it is not always from the perspective you might imagine we would write about. Read a few articles, and you'll get a better sense of what we mean and what this industry really involves.
If you're like most people, you've got at least a passing familiarity with Mexican-inspired food—after all, the fast-food landscape is full of taco joints, burrito bars, and nacho stands. However, authentic Mexican cuisine offers a rich and diverse array of flavors, textures, and ingredients that go far beyond these mainstream adaptations. By exploring regional dishes and traditional cooking techniques, you can discover a whole new world of culinary delights that will elevate your appreciation for this vibrant and flavorful cuisine. Here's what you need to know to get the most from your first visit to an authentic Mexican restaurant:
Demystifying Main Dishes
When you first sit down and open the menu, you'll notice a variety of main dishes that may seem unfamiliar. Here are some of the most common ones:
Tacos
Tacos are perhaps the most famous Mexican dish, consisting of a tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients such as meats, cheeses, vegetables, and salsas. You'll often find tacos made with soft corn tortillas, but some places may also offer crunchy taco shells or flour tortillas.
Enchiladas
Enchiladas are rolled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, or beans, smothered in a savory sauce, and baked. The sauce is typically red (tomato-based) or green (made with tomatillos), and the dish may be garnished with sour cream, cheese, or fresh herbs.
Tamales
A tamale is a traditional Mexican dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed. Tamales are typically served with a side of salsa for added flavor.
Tostadas
A tostada is a crispy, flat tortilla topped with a variety of ingredients, such as beans, shredded meat, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Think of it as an open-faced taco with a crunchy base.
Savoring Side Dishes and Appetizers
Now that you're familiar with some of the main dishes, here are some popular side dishes and appetizers:
Guacamole
This creamy avocado-based dip is a staple in Mexican cuisine. It's typically made with ripe avocados, lime juice, tomato, onion, and cilantro. Enjoy it with tortilla chips or as a topping for your main dish.
Salsa
Salsa is a flavorful sauce that can range from mild to spicy, depending on the ingredients. Common varieties include tomato-based red salsa, tangy green salsa made from tomatillos, and pico de gallo, a fresh mixture of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Queso Fundido
This mouthwatering dish consists of melted cheese, often mixed with chorizo (a spicy Mexican sausage), served with warm tortillas or chips for dipping.
Visit a local restaurant to learn more about Mexican food.
Share25 April 2023
