Mexican Specialty and Gourmet Foods Key Terms

Appreciate Mexican gourmet foods by learning key ingredients involved in preparation

By Loraine Degraff, Freelance Writer/Playwright

Mexican food is not just tacos and enchiladas. Mexican gourmet cooks know how to take chile peppers and corn, two staple ingredients of the Mexican diet, and combine them with a host of other ingredients to create an array of tasty, mouth-watering dishes. In fact, Mexican cuisine is a combination of the influence of many nations and is considered one of the most varied cuisines in the world. Several key ingredients and foods contribute to the makeup of Mexican cuisine. Here are just a few terms for starters.

Chiles and pimientos

Chiles are hot peppers used for culinary as well as medicinal purposes. Chiles are a staple in Mexican and South American cuisine. Pimientos are small sweet red peppers similar to bell peppers. Pimientos can be eaten raw or cooked. When ground into a powder they become the spice paprika.
Try: WiseGeek discusses different types of peppers and their use.

Frijoles

Frijoles are small black beans used in Mexican cuisine. Frijoles rank next to corn in the Mexican diet. They are a good source of protein and are usually boiled and then fried. Frijoles can be served as the main meal or used as a garnish with the meal.
Try: Find an easy frijoles recipe at Southern Living.

Salsa

Salsa is a popular Mexican sauce that uses a mixture of red and green tomatoes, onion, chili and coriander. It can be eaten as a relish or a dip.
Try: Read more about salsa on Mexconnect.

Tortillas

Tortillas have been a staple food of Mexicans for many generations. Tortillas can be made of flour or corn and are often served alongside a meal. Tortillas can also become the meal itself. Enchiladas, tacos and quesadillas all use tortillas as a base ingredient.
Try: Learn the history of tortillas through What's Cooking America.

Guacamole

Guacamole is dip made with ripe avocado seasoned with onions, chilies and coriander. It can also be served as a garnish.
Try: Find a guacamole recipe at Simply Recipes.

Tamales and empanadas

Tamales are a cornmeal paste wrapped in corn or banana husks and often stuffed with chicken, pork or turkey and/or vegetables, then steamed. Empanadas are usually turnovers with a pastry crust and meat filling. Sometimes empanadas are filled with fruit and served as dessert.
Try: Go to Chilefire.com for authentic and tasty Mexican tamales and empanadas recipes.