Anyone who travels to Mexico quickly realizes that food here is not just food - it is identity, history, community and passion. Mexican cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world. And the best thing? Many of the dishes are ideal for on the go - inexpensive, served quickly and yet full of depth.
Especially for young travelers, backpackers and food lovers, Mexico offers a culinary journey of discovery that goes far beyond tacos. Here are Five superordinate courts and categoriesthat you shouldn't miss - including popular variations and tips on where to try them.
Tacos are much more than just a snack - they are cultural heritage, everyday food and culinary experimentation all rolled into one. Almost every region in Mexico has its own taco variations, its own way of preparation, its own favorite ingredients.
Typical variants you should know:
Tip: Go where there are lots of people. A full taco stand is almost always a good taco stand.
Tamales are one of the oldest dishes in Mexico. Even in Aztec and Mayan times, this combination of corn dough and filling was wrapped in leaves and steamed. Today you can find tamales in many variations - depending on the region, occasion and taste.
What you can expect:
Classic variants:
When to eat?
Traditionally for breakfast, for example with hot chocolate or "atole", a sweet corn drink. But they actually taste good at any time of day.
Mole is perhaps the most symbolic dish in Mexico - or rather: the most symbolic sauce. Mole is not a single dish, but an elaborate sauce that often takes hours or days to prepare and is served over meat (usually chicken or turkey).
What's inside?
A true explosion of ingredients: different types of chili, nuts, chocolate, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, bread, tomatoes, seeds - over 30 different ingredients depending on the recipe and region.
Important variants:
Tip: Mole is cooked in many families on special occasions - but you can also get great versions in good "fondas" (small family restaurants)
Tortillas made from corn or wheat are the basis of many Mexican dishes. And a whole world of small, filling snacks has developed around them. One of the best-known examples is the quesadilla.
Quesadillas - more than just cheese:
In Mexico, quesadilla does not automatically mean that it contains cheese. Many variations do without - instead with pumpkin blossoms, mushrooms, beans or chicharrón (deep-fried pork).
Other variants:
You can find these snacks on every street corner, at markets or in small snack bars - especially in central Mexico and the capital.
Between big meals, people in Mexico like to snack a lot - preferably directly on the street. Corn is almost always involved.
Must-try snacks:
Tip: The street stalls really come to life in the evening - perfect for a spontaneous street food dinner.
Conclusion: Mexico's cuisine is diversity, history and real life
Whether savory or sweet, hearty or light, traditional or creatively interpreted - Mexican cuisine has something for everyone. These five overarching categories cover the most important culinary classics while giving you enough leeway to try out regional specialties on site.
Eating in Mexico is more than just a pleasure - it's a social moment, a conversation starter, a window into the culture. So bring an appetite, keep an open mind and simply try it.
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