In Hispanic cultures, food is considered a large aspect of their traditions and identity. These dishes trace all the way back to the indigenous tribes of the Mayans, Incas, and Aztecs. Many of their original meals included beans, chili peppers, maize, and squash. Due to the later Spanish colonization, other ingredients such as rice, wheat, and dairy were introduced into their cooking. So, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, these are five dishes I think are worth trying!
- Enchiladas
This dish originated in Mexico and was named after the Spanish word “enchilar,” which means “to season with chili”. Enchiladas are corn tortillas usually filled with meat or cheese and topped with either a tomato or chili sauce. Potatoes, beans, and vegetables are also common fillers.Â
- Pizole
This Mexican dish is a hearty stew or soup consisting of hominy corn and tender meat. The meat is most often bone-in pork or chicken, and the soup itself is flavored with onions, oregano, bay leaves, and garlic that is boiled into the broth. The meal can be served in three different styles, named after the colors of their broth. Rojo (red) pozole is flavored with red chilis and normally paired with pork. Verde (green) pozole is cooked with tomatillos, cilantro, green chilis, and served with chicken. Lastly, blanco (white) pozole is the only chili-less stew and, like the others, has meat and hominy.
- Mole
This next one isn’t technically a dish; it is a sauce/gravy. Mole is a popular Mexican condiment made from a blend of nuts, spices, dried chilis, and a slight touch of dark chocolate. The sauce itself is not overly sugary despite the addition of chocolate; the sweetness of the chocolate is actually used to balance out the heat of the chilis. Mole is often paired with roasted turkey and chicken.Â
- ChilaquilesÂ
Made with toasted or fried corn tortilla pieces simmered in green or red salsa, this is a traditional comfort meal in Mexico. It was created so stale tortillas wouldn’t be wasted. It can be paired with a fried egg, radishes, pulled chicken, and even sliced avocado.Â
- Paella
Originated in Valencia, paella is a rice dish that contains either meat or seafood, saffron, and vegetables. It is served in a wide and shallow pan. The rice that is best for the flavor of this meal is short-grained rice, such as bomba or calasparra. They are the best types of rice for retaining the flavors without getting mushy. It tastes best when the cook is able to caramelize the bottom and avoid burning it.
These meals are all traditional Hispanic dishes that are staples in the lives of many. Give them a try!