The Traditional Cuisine of Mexico

Updated April 2023

Mexico is home to some of the most well-known and loved dishes in the world. Mexican cuisine varies by region due to local climate, geography and ethnic differences among the indigenous inhabitants. Here’s an introduction to the cuisine of Mexico. 

Cuisine of Mexico by Region

North of Mexico – This region is known for its meat dishes especially beef and wheat in the form of flour tortillas

Oaxaca region – Known for its savoury tamales, tortillas and celebratory moles

Yucatan – Tropical fruits feature heavily in the cuisine, as the Yucatan is known for its beaches and warm climate.

Mountainous regions of the west – In this part of Mexico, birria is a popular dish (goat/beef/mutton/pork in a spicy tomato-based sauce)

Pacific Coast & Baja California Peninsula – Seafood dominates the cuisine in this part of Mexico

The three staples in the cuisine of Mexico are dishes of corn, beans and chillies (hot peppers), all present before the Spanish arrived. Corn is consumed in all possible forms, but most importantly as a tortilla (a thin, round pancake made from corn dough). Tortillas are also used to make tacos and quesadillas, popular throughout the country. Avocado, tomatoes and rice also feature heavily in Mexican dishes.

Typical dishes of Mexico

If you’re visiting Mexico, here are some of the traditional foods you can expect to try. We think they’re all delicious – there’s a reason why the cuisine of Mexico is one of the world’s favourites!

Tamales

Tamales – Boiled pockets of corn dough stuffed with meat and served in banana leaves.

Pozole

Pozole – Chicken or pork broth with corn, herbs and spices, with onions, lettuce, dried ground chilli, lemon juice and radish sprinkled on top.

Mole

Mole – A spicy sauce that is poured over meat, with chocolate sometimes added.

Chilaquiles

Chilaquiles – fried corn tortillas topped with red or green salsa, scrambled or fried eggs, cheese and cream.

Tacos el Pastor

Tacos el pastor – corn tortilla with pork, onions, coriander and pineapple.

Tostadas

Tostadas – fried tortillas served with frijoles (refried beans), cheese, meat or seafood.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas – corn or flour tortillas filled with meat, cheese and beans, topped in a chilli sauce.

Drinks of Mexico

Drinks include tepache (made from pineapple), tuba (fermented juice from the coconut tree and pulque (ferment made from the maguey plant). Tequila, of course, is also offered and is usually served as a major ingredient in margaritas, with salt-rimmed glasses and lime juice. Mezcal is a rougher version of tequila.

Ready to delve into the gastronomic delights of Mexico? Try the spicy dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, tamales, chilaquiles and guacamole during a Mexico Tour. Don’t wait any longer and visit Mexico-Chimu Adventures offers tailor-made packages to Central America, South America, Antarctica, and the Arctic. Contact us for more information.