The bold flavors, intense colors, and exciting textures makes Mexican food popular all over the world. Tacos alone are one of the most common dishes found in most kitchens and restaurants. With the rich heritage and culture, Mexican cooking can make any mouth water for the delicious concoctions made. Today, we at Eddie’s Mexican Restaurant would like to share some fun facts you maybe didn’t know concerning Mexican cuisine.
Where Do Wild Tomatoes Grow?
Tomatoes originated in Mexico and is a common ingredient in many Mexican cooking and other cultural foods. Little wild tomatoes can be found all over the region as it was cultivated by the Aztecs and seeds brought to Spain.
Tamales Origin
Tamales are a timeless classic, dating back more than 8,000 years ago. Found in corn husks, a traditional Indian recipe. Based on the time of year, different alterations may be done to the recipe.
Original Margarita
A drink created by a showgirl named Marjorie King created the drink and in the 1930s the owner of the Rancho La Gloria, Carlos “Danny” Herrera, served the drink. A German ambassador’s daughter named Margarita Henkel was later served the drink by Don Carlos Orozco a bartender.
World Cuisine Influences in Mexican Food
A multicultural blend of European, African, Native American and Caribbean influences make up Mexican food. Spices from Africa, plantains from the Caribbean, pan or dulce and other confectionery creations stem from Europe and rice from Asia are all a part of Mexican food.
Legend of Nachos; Ignacio Anaya
Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya an owner of a restaurant created nachos. Ignacio is commonly nicknamed nacho. For a group that came in late one night, he said to have made it in 1949. It was created on the spot using ready ingredients in the kitchen first calling it Nacho’s Especialies, where it is later shortened to nachos.
What are Fajitas Made Of?
First spotted as a printed recipe in 1975, the tradition of using skirt steak was done by ranchers uses the cuts. In the 1930s the description of the steak cut was fajita. Meaning for appetizer, the marinated steak served with veggies is bontanzas. The first to feature this on the menu was Nifa Restaurant in Houston.
Unique Mexican Ingredients
There are many traditional recipes that call for unusual or exotic animals. Recipes include using the rattlesnake or iguanas, other frogs and salamanders, and some traditional ingredients from native insects.
Edible Flowers in Mexican Cooking
There are several authentic Mexican dishes that call for flowers as well. A longtime favorite includes squash blossom soup. The yellow flower is a milder sweet taste of spinach. Nopal, otherwise known as cactus, is in some recipes as it is thought to help balance the blood sugar levels.
Healthy Mexican Food Options
Authentic Mexican cuisine is health food. Fresh vegetables and spices are natural antioxidants. Rice and bean mixtures offer a perfect balance of carbs and protein combinations. Also, Mexican food is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients as well as being low fat. With a nice balance of beans, meats, dairy, grains, seeds, and vegetables, the essential food groups are available.
Traditional Mexican Cuisine in Las Vegas, Nevada (Just Minutes from Summerlin, North LV & Henderson, NV)
To enjoy deliciously prepared Mexican food in the Vegas Valley, you will soon be able to come to the Eddie’s Mexican Restaurant and enjoy a pleasant atmosphere with mouth-watering food that will always leave you satisfied!
