Mexican food is incredibly popular in so many countries, and for a good reason!
It has some of the most diverse and amazing flavors, and after having lived in Mexico for over a year of my life, I’m gonna be honest and say that Mexican cuisine is probably my favorite.
It’s filled with so many flavors, fresh and wonderful ingredients, and I don’t feel that the rest of the world can quite do it justice.
I’ve been to so many countries where the Mexican dishes were bland, or the flavors were off. And while it can be better in America, there’s just something about going to Mexico and trying it from their local restaurants.
Or the food the friends you make in Mexico give you. ♥️
It’s just a completely different experience!
I mean, it can be so much fun to pop into an eatery and grab some Oxacan mole tamales, and taste those dark sweet rich flavors.
Or heading over to the street food carts and grabbing a savory hearty Pambazos, and finishing it off with sticky, flaky, sweet Buñuelos for dessert.
Basically what I’m saying is, if you ever go to Mexico, don’t just go for the resorts. I’m not saying you’re bad if you do that, at all. But if you want a foodie Mexico experience, then it’s worth it!
Related: The Foodie Mexico Guide: 6 Places for the Best Mexican Food
You Will Learn About:
81 Mexican Foods to Try
This post on Mexican food is here to help you (and me) try new recipes, and level up our cooking skills.
I’m all about helping you to level up your life, and food is a great place to do just that.
I think that you deserve to live a more enriched life, where you feel that you’re the best version of yourself. So let’s start small, and have you try some amazingly authentic Mexican dishes.
Main Dishes – Platos Fuertes
1. Huevos Rancheros
It really is such a simple and delicious dish to make.
But, it’s also one that has been redone many times in non-traditional ways. And while that’s fine, and can still taste pretty good, we’re not here for the new renditions.
We’re here for the traditional. 👍
So if you want to try the traditional version, then I would definitely give this huevos rancheros recipe a try!
I mean, look at how good it looks! 😭
Related: My Trip to San Miguel de Allende & Personal Tips when Visiting
2. Huevos Ahogados
Translating out as drowned eggs, this Mexican breakfast recipe looks SO good!
With garlic, chipotles in adobo sauce, fresh tomatoes, and other delicious ingredients, I could see myself eating a big bowl of this!
Also, it looks like it would go great with queso fresco and maybe some avocado, but that’s just me. 🤷♀️
3. Tostadas
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? At home and in Mexico.
Cooking Tips and Notes: I love making my own tostadas at home, since you just fry it on a pan with a bit of oil, until hard and crispy. But you can of course get them pre-made at the store, and save yourself time!
Tostadas are one of my favorite parts of Mexican cuisine. And if you’re looking for a good Mexican recipe, then this is it!
There are so many options you can try when it comes to toppings, and you can make it as flavorful as you want.
Basically, tostadas are crispy, crunchy, and hard corn tortillas that you top with different ingredients. And if you want a simple dinner idea, then this is perfect!
Here’s my Tostada Recipe that I got from a local restaurant in Mexico, but if you want to make sure it’s truly authentic, then give this tostada recipe from Pati Jinich a try. It looks good. 👌
4. Chilaquiles Verde
Have I Had It? Yes, my photo right above. Sorry, not the best photo, but it was good! 👍
At Home or in Mexico? At home and in Mexico.
Cooking Tips and Notes: Always super simple and fun to make. You’re just buying a bag of tortilla chips, and topping it with a few ingredients. Super satisfying!
I remember the first time I had chilaquiles, and it was amazing. 👌
I had put it off for awhile thinking, “It’s just chips with sauce,” but when I finally took a bite, I understood.
It had this delicious texture and flavor, and you could put so many delicious things on top. Things like Mexican crema, queso fresco, eggs, and more.
Such a good meal!
5. Tacos de Pescado
I feel like this list would not be complete without fish tacos.
I’ve always been someone that reached for steak or pork tacos, but if it’s done right and it’s authentic, then I’m happy to order or make it at home.
Also, this recipe has chipotle mayo sauce and that sounds so good!
6. Carne Asada
I need to master making good carne asada very soon!
I mean you can do so much with it. You can put it on tacos (obviously 👌), salads, burritos, and so many other Mexican foods.
Also, I could just see this being an amazing recipe to make during the summer when you get the barbecue out!
7. Birria Tacos (Quesabirria Tacos)
Ok, you know what you can do with that birria meat you just saw above?
Make it into these tacos.
Oh, and then put cheese in it, and serve it with a consommé that you dip the tacos in. And that consommé comes from the juices of the cooked the meat.
I’m sorry, but I need to eat these soon because they sound so incredible!
8. Empanadas
I love empanadas, and I’m seriously questioning why I never had them in Mexico.
Maybe it had to do with the region I was in, or I just wasn’t looking for them.
Either way though, Mexican empanadas sound SO good. I mean, in Mexico, they make them with many different fillings like roasted chilies, chorizo, or even pumpkin!
There are so many options, and I can’t wait to make these recipes!
9. Entomatadas
If you want meat stuffed corn tortillas, that are smothered in a delicious red sauce (because who doesn’t want that), then entomatadas might be a good option for you.
Oh also, it’s topped with cheese, and Mexican crema, which means it’s gonna be really good!
And if you don’t know what Mexican crema is, it’s basically like sour cream except way more creamy, and way less sour. Oh, and not as thick.
10. Pork Carnitas
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
Remember how I talked about how chicken tinga was a great way to prep meat for the rest of the week?
I honestly think the same way about this Mexican pork carnitas recipe.
I mean just imagine prepping a large batch of this super flavorful recipe, and then being able to quickly take it out of the fridge and have it with tostadas, tacos, or whatever else you’re craving. 🤷♀️
11. Beef Carnitas
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
If you also want to try a beef carnitas recipe instead of pork, then I’ve got you covered!
Sometimes, just having some good steak tacos hits the spot.
Also, it’s just fun to explore new types of seasonings when it comes to cooking with beef, and I’m definitely excited to try this one!
12. Enchiladas
I feel that growing up as an American, it can get kind of confusing as to what dishes really are truly Mexican.
It’s easy to assume that the dishes I ordered in American-Mexican restaurants were recipes just made for Americans. They weren’t something that originated in Mexico (like enchiladas).
But over the years, and as I lived in Mexico, it was a nice surprise to realize that there were so many recipes that really were Mexican. And it was also nice to try the authentic versions, and understand how they should taste.
And while I haven’t had an authentic enchiladas recipe just yet, it’s now something I hope to be trying very soon!
13. Chiles Rellenos
Another recipe that I’m actually pretty surprised I haven’t had yet!
I mean I’ve seen it so many times, and it feels like everyone and their mom has tried it. 😂
Also, these are stuffed with Oaxacan cheese, which I talk about below, and it’s incredible! Plus they’re coated in a tasty looking batter. I can’t wait to try these the next time I visit Mexico or get the right ingredients at home!
14. Chicken Fajita
Have I Had It? Yes.
Cooking Tips and Notes: This is from the recipe I linked to down below. Super flavorful, tasty, and satisfying. I would recommend pan frying your tortillas, with a bit of oil, to get that nice crispy texture as well.
Chicken fajitas are such a nice comfort food.
You get some nice warm tortillas, and scoop up a nice helping of flavorful chicken and peppers.
Then squeeze a bit of lime and you’re all good.
Also, how fun is it to try an authentic recipe from Northern Mexico, at home, instead of trying whatever the restaurant gives you?
15. Chile Verde
A comforting hot bowl of pork that’s been simmering and cooking in a delicious broth of tomatillos and chiles.
You can serve it with some tasty beans and rice and have an amazing Mexican meal!
Also, in this recipe, she talks about roasting the tomatillos and peppers which gives them a nice smoky flavor. I really can’t wait to eat this on a cold winter or fall evening. 👍
16. Pozole Rojo
I can also attest that Mexican soups are some of the best soups around!
My personal favorite being sopa azteca. 👌
They’re packed with tons of flavor and this Pozole Rojo is made with delicious ingredients like pork shoulder, garlic, chilis, onion, and so much more!
I think it makes for the perfect comforting dinner on a cold night!
17. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
There’s just something so comforting about tortilla soup!
You get this smooth, savory, almost creamy broth, and an amazing crunch from the tortilla strips, which have been lightly soaking in the broth.
Oh, and then topping it with some cheese and avocado adds that extra richness.
Also, this being an an authentic Mexican recipe makes it so much better!
18. Mole Poblano
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
Mole is one of my favorites!
I remember going to this hole in the wall Mexican restaurant when I was eleven.
I asked the waiter what mole was and he explained to me that it was a Mexican sauce made with chocolate. So being a chocolate lover, I obviously said yes.
And I’ve loved it ever since!
19. Chicken Flautas
Rolled tacos stuffed with chicken, and then deep-fried and smothered in tasty sauces.
I don’t understand how I haven’t had this before, or why I shouldn’t try it as soon as possible!
She suggests using corn tortillas, which of course makes plenty of sense. Yes, it does make it authentic, but corn tortillas also tastes the best (in my opinion).
20. Menudo
Menudo is a soup with beef tripe, or cow’s stomach.
And before you go, “Wait, no, I don’t think so,” I promise you, tripe isn’t bad!
If you cook it in tasty recipes, it can be pretty delicious and fun to eat.
Also, it’s just a great way to try new things and broaden your palate!
21. Beef Birria de Res
Ok, if you want a recipe where the beef has been simmering in a delicious and flavorful broth for hours and falls right off the bones, then I think you need to try this one.
Also, with brisket, peppers, and a lot of flavorful spices, I think it’s kind of hard to say no to this one!
22. Oaxacan Quesadilla
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at home.
Ok, so is this my photo?
No.
It’s a stock photo, because when I had the opportunity to take a photo of it, I was too hungry and wasn’t thinking about it.
But here’s how my friend in Mexico taught me to make it:
- Heat up a pan on medium heat.
- Put a bit of oil on the pan.
- Put your corn tortilla on the pan and let it cook for maybe 30 seconds.
- Break off some Oaxacan cheese and put it inside the tortilla.
- Fold the single tortilla in half, and grill on both sides.
- Once the cheese is melty, and the tortilla is browned and crispy to your liking, take off and eat.
- That’s it!
Now if you’re curious about Oaxacan cheese, it’s a super mild, creamy, and delicious Mexican cheese that I highly recommend!
And if you’re looking for it at a store, you’ll want to look for this sort of wrap braided-style cheese.
Here’s an image of it down below.
And this one actually is my photo. 😂
23. Gorditas
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at home.
Cooking Tips: Still experimenting, and want to find a different recipe that doesn’t break up as easily. But very tasty!
I’m obsessed with gorditas.
I haven’t had this version where they’re stuffed yet, but when I lived in Queretaro, Mexico, I would get these super thick corn tortillas that were freshly fried, and topped with tasty ingredients.
It’s so satisfying! And I can only image how good this stuffed gorditas recipe is!
24. Chicken Tacos
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at home.
It’s simple but so so good!
I mean, just taking a bite into some chicken tacos, when done right, can be so satisfying.
You get the nice warmth of the tortillas, and then you’re hit with all the spices.
And this authentic recipe, in the link below, has some great ingredients like olive oil, garlic, paprika, chili powder, and more.
This is going to make an amazing dinner!
25. Pollo de Quesadillas
I kind of thought that chicken quesadillas were something that Americans made up.
And not that there’s anything wrong with that! The combination of crispy tortillas, stuffed with delicious cheese and meat, is great.
But seeing that it’s an actually authentic dish makes me happy. It means I get to try a traditional dish, with the right ingredients, and have an amazing meal.
26. Red Pork Tamales
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
Tamales are one of my favorite Mexican recipes to eat. And if you’re ever in Mexico, then I would highly suggest trying their Oaxacan mole tamales. 👌
But with that aside, if you’re wanting a comforting dinner and excited to try new cooking techniques, then this would be a great recipe for you!
27. Albóndigas Soup
This Mexican meatball soup looks so cozy and comforting!
With all the meat, veggies, and flavor-packed broth, I can just see myself sitting down on a cold night and enjoying a big bowl of it.
You know, the kind where you probably served yourself way to much, but you don’t really care. 🤷♀️
Here’s a recipe for albóndigas soup if you want to try it!
28. Pambazos
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I cannot tell you ENOUGH how much you need to try pambazos!
The sandwich bread has been dipped in a garlicky yummy sauce, then fried in a pan, and THEN stuffed with tons of tasty ingredients.
I remember getting mine from a street food vendor in Queretaro.
They stuffed there’s with potatoes, meat, cream cheese, and other delicious ingredients. It was so satisfying!
You need to try these!
29. Chicken Tinga
Ok, if you’re looking for a meat recipe where it’s soaked in yummy ingredients, and you can put on so many different things (tacos, tostadas, chilaquiles, etc.), then chicken tinga is probably for you.
And with ingredients like different chiles, garlic, and olive oil, this really does sound like a great way to make chicken and use it throughout the week.
30. Tortas Ahogadas
Another delicious looking Mexican sandwich!
Dipped in a tasty red chili and tomato sauce, they’re stuffed with pork. And that means if you love meat, then this is probably going to be a great Mexican food for you!
Tortas Ahogada literally translates out as “drowned sandwich,” and it’s something you can commonly get in Guadalajara. In fact, they’re famous for it!
So if you want to try something that’s drowning in flavor, then this is the recipe to make!
31. Burritos
While you might think that burritos are just Tex-Mex, they are in fact, originally from Mexico.
They’re a dish that came from the Mexican state, Chihuahua, and are pretty different than the ones in the states.
While we might pack 7 ingredients into one big tortilla, they’re a lot smaller and thinner with less ingredients.
But of course, things vary in different states. So for instance, in Baja California, machaca burritos are popular. They’re burritos that are filled with sun-dried beef, and other savory tasty ingredients.
Or another variation of the burrito would be the burro percherón from Hermosillo. It has a super thin but GIANT flour tortilla filled with juicy carne asada, cheese, avocado, and other delicious fillings.
And if you want to try a burrito recipe from an actual Mexican food blogger, than the one down below looks perfect. 👌
It’s recipe she continues from her family, and I can’t wait to try it myself.
32. Ceviche
Very similar to aguachile, it’s fish that’s been “cured” in lime juice and salt, and eaten with fresh ingredients.
It’s a dish you can find in places like Mazatlan or Puerto Vallarta, where apparently it’s really fresh and delicious.
I lived in Mazatlan for a couple of months back in 2016, and I’m kind of kicking myself that I never tried it. 😂
33. Carne Guisada (Mexican Beef Stew)
A traditional recipe taken from her husband’s family, this hearty carne guisada recipe sounds like a great dinner recipe!
I mean it’s kind of hard to go wrong with beef, lots of tasty veggies, and of course, plenty of good spices. 🤷♀️
34. Barbacoa
Barbacoa is something I’ve been wanting to really try since I heard about it not too long ago.
Essentially, it’s lamb or goat that’s been marinated and wrapped in banana leaves, and then cooked in an earthen oven or underground.
But of course, if you don’t have one of those, the Mexican food blogger in the link right below will show you how. 😊
35. Tacos Al Pastor
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I love getting tacos al pastor on the street!
It’s fun just standing there, waiting for them to get your tacos. You surrounded by incredible smells, the heat of the grill, and the sound of other people who are also waiting and talking with each other.
And they’re always so juicy, tender, and full of flavor!
Also, when you pair them with lime and salsa, it’s this incredible explosion of flavor in your mouth.
It really is one of the best Mexican dishes to try!
36. Skirt Steak Tacos
Steak marinated in lime juice and beer honestly so incredible!
I’m all for trying authentic Mexican meat marinades and recipes; they’re always packed with a ton of flavor. And this traditional recipe sounds very tasty.
It looks simple enough to make, and like it would be the perfect thing to grill during the summer.
37. Cochinita Pibil
I thought this recipe sounded super interesting and delicious!
It’s basically a tender cut of pork, wrapped in banana leaves, and traditionally cooked in an underground oven or pit.
Of course, there are other methods for cooking it, but if you want to experiment this summer, then I think it’s worth trying!
Side Note: The cook goes into other ways to cook it in the link to the recipe below.
38. Sonora Style Carne Asada Tacos
If you want yet another reason to make tacos, because who doesn’t, then these Sonora style carne asada tacos might be something you want to try.
It’s just a fun way to vary up this traditional food and use ingredients from the state of sonora. 😊
Sonora Style Carne Asada Tacos
39. Beef Chile Pasado
Pasado is essentially the process of roasting and drying out the chiles you use in this recipe.
Do you have to do that yourself?
No. You can get them like that at the store, but I believe it’s going to make for a more fun and tasty flavor!
40. Tacos de Camaron
Camaron simply just means shrimp, and if you couldn’t tell by the photos, these are shrimp tacos. 😂
And I feel like if you want a really tasty, but also a really simple taco recipe, then this will definitely hit the spot.
One important thing to note: There’s just something about Mexican recipes with fresh seafood, so I would definitely make sure the shrimp you get at the store is fresh!
41. Chorizo
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at home.
I remember having chorizo for the first time when I was sixteen.
It was thanksgiving and a family member of mine was using it as apart of the stuffing (it was his mother’s recipe), and I kept on taking some from the bowl when he wasn’t looking. It was so good! 😂
But since then, it’s been one of my favorite meats to have in dishes. It’s so good in burritos, tostadas, tacos, scrambled with eggs, or as is.
42. Molotes
You know how I talked about how Oaxacan food is some of the best food out there?
Well they also have their own empanadas.
They’re these masa (corn) pastry pockets, that are filled with tasty meats, and look super satisfying.
Apparently they’re a common street food that you can get in that area during Easter and Christmas.
And, they look like the perfect thing to grab while exploring the streets of Oaxaca.
43. Enchiladas Mineras
Enchiladas mineras translates out to “mining enchiladas.”
Coming from Guanajuato, they’re traditionally filled with stewed carrots and potatoes, onions, and cheese.
Back in the day, the woman would take this dish to their husbands, who worked in the mines.
I honestly love it when a recipe like this has a cool history!
44. Enmoladas
Another enchilada recipe, but I think it’s a Mexican dish that’s worth mentioning!
It comes soaked in a delicious looking mole sauce, and it’s filled up with meat, cheese, and other tasty ingredients.
So if you already have the ingredients for enchiladas at home, then why not try out this tasty looking version of the recipe?
45. Tlacoyo
Tlacoyos are boat-shaped thick corn tortillas, stuffed with beans, and can come with different tasty topping.
You’ll commonly find them in Mexico City, and they look super hearty and delicious!
Also, if you want a little bit of Mexican street food at home, then is a great recipe to try!
46. Tacos Arabes
Tacos Arabes translates out to “Arabic tacos,” and comes from Puebla, Mexico.
This dish originated in in the 1930’s, when people from Lebanon moved to Mexico.
Originally, they were cooked with lamb, but now you’re going to get pita bread that’s stuffed with cumin-spiced pork, and that honestly sounds so delicious.
47. Chapulines
Chapulines are grasshoppers that come in different Mexican food recipes.
My husband’s friend, Louise, ordered some for us, but I chickened out. 😆
Apparently, they weren’t bad. Just small little crunchy fried grasshoppers, that tasted like the lime they were flavored with. 🤷♀️
48. Caldo De Queso
A Mexican soup that’s made with cheese and potatoes, I don’t know how you could go wrong.
Coming from the north of Mexico, it first originated in the state of Sonora, and it looks like amazing comfort food. 👌
49. Mole Negro
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
Mole negro is a delicious sauce that you’ll see commonly in Oaxaca.
I personally loved it, and had it with tamales when I was living in Mexico.
It’s very rich, deep, and delicious. 👌
And while you can get a good mole paste from the store, I think it would be so much more enjoyable to makes mole that tastes fresh and delicious at home.
Sides, Appetizers, & Salsas
50. Authentic Salsa Verde
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
There’s just something about having delicious fresh salsa for your recipes.
I’ve found that if you have incredible salsas at your disposal, you can kind of turn any dinner into a more fun and flavorful experience.
So even if you eat the same dinner 5 nights in a row, it’s ok, at least you have tasty salsas that make it more fun and change up the flavors. 🤷♀️
Seriously, invest in good salsas like this one, it looks really tasty! Not the chunky sugary salsas that us Americans are used to. 😂
51. Authentic Salsa Rojo
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I love finding good authentic recipes for salsa since the ones you get in Mexico taste so much better.
In my experience, they haven’t been sweet, and they have this amazing depth of savory flavors that work with so many meals.
Fun fact: I’ve found that they serve bread with salsa in Mexico (or at least in the area I lived), instead of chips. It’s very tasty!
52. Pico de gallo
I feel that pico de gallo is such a great fresh salsa, that can enhance the flavor of so many dishes.
It’s such a quick recipe to make and can add a nice burst of flavor to your meat dishes, tacos, or salads.
Fun Fact: It’s called “salsa bandera,” with bandera meaning flag, because the colors in it (red, white, and green) are the colors of the Mexican flag.
53. Salsa Quemada
I had so many good salsas in Mexico, and if you want a bit of that in your home, then I would give this recipe a try.
It’s made with super simple and easy to get ingredients like:
- Tomatoes
- Cilantro
- Garlic.
Oh and the ingredients are roasted, giving the salsa what sounds like a really nice flavor!
And if you’re curious, then here’s the recipe for Salsa Quemada that I had originally put in this post. However, if you want something that’s a bit more authentic, then give this recipe for Salsa Quemada a try. 🙂
54. Salsa Macha
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at home.
I remember having salsa macha for the first time, a few months ago, when I was living in Mexico.
We had gone to this incredible seafood restaurant, and they brought out this free starter of their homemade chips and tasty salsas.
Oh, and these weren’t just normal tortilla chips that you get in a lot of American Mexican restaurants, these were some artisanal chips with a ton of tangy savory spices sprinkled all over and it was incredible. 👌
But with that aside (sorry about that 😂), I tried the salsa macha they had, and it was one of my favorites!
It was this flaky chili oily salsa with peanuts and I really loved the flavors! Definitely worth the try!
55. Aguachile
If you’re visiting coastal locations in Mexico, like Puerto Vallarta, then you’re going to be seeing delicious seafood recipes like this.
Essentially, you’re getting a marinated and citrus-cure raw shrimp dish that’s great as an appetizer!
56. Arroz Rojo (Authentic Mexican Red Rice)
I feel that since many of us have grown up with the American version of Mexican red rice, it’s only right to share the authentic version of this Mexican food.
I mean why not try the traditional true flavors of this dish? I’m sure it’s going to be incredible!
57. Corn Tortillas
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I remember being in Mexico, ordering a dish and asking, “Could I have some corn tortillas to go with that?” And the guy happily responded,
“Of course! This is Mexico!” 😂
There’s just something about freshly made corn tortillas that taste so good! And I think I might try this recipe myself this week. 👍
58. Authentic Guacamole
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at home.
I’m pretty sure you’ve had guacamole at some point, but I think it’s important to have an authentic version of this essential Mexican food.
Also, it’s not hard and all the ingredients honestly sound pretty darn good!
Except for the onion, I’m not a fan of raw onion in my guac, but that probably just means I need to grow up. 😂
59. Nachos
Nachos were again, one of those recipes where I assumed it was probably created in the US.
But, apparently, they were started in the state of Coahuila by a man named, Ignacio (Nacho) Anaya
The story behind them is that some women who were visiting, wanted to find a place to eat. And since all the restaurants were closed, Ignacio offered to make them some food.
He then made this tasty snack and offered it to them.
They ended up liking it so much that they tried asking him what it was called. However, he misunderstood them and thought they were asking for his name, and replied “Nacho.”
Assuming that was the name of the dish, they took that name and ran with it.
And if this story is true, I’m glad it happened, this dish is one of my favorites!
60. Frijoles Refritos (Authentic Refried Beans)
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I know that you can easily get refried beans in a can from the store, but wouldn’t it be nice to have a good authentic go-to recipe?
One that you can pull out, and feel kinda cool knowing that you can make it yourself!
61. Frijoles Puercos Sinaloa Refried Beans
If you haven’t had Sinaloa chorizo, then I think you need to try it very soon!
It’s so good and flavorful, and thankfully, this recipe gives you a chance to try it.
Also, it has ingredients like bacon, cheese, jalapeños, and garlic, so if you want something super flavorful and savory, then this is it!
One last thing, this recipe calls for Monterey Jack Cheese, and while that isn’t bad, I would suggest using something a bit more traditional (like Oaxacan cheese).
Frijoles Puercos Sinaloa Refried Beans Recipe
Street Food
62. Mexican Street Corn – Elotes
It’s so easy and so good!
And while this might not be the best photo I could have taken, you still need to try it. 😂
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sweet corn
- Mayo
- Chili powder
- Cotija cheese
All you have to do is spread some mayo over the corn, then top with Cotija cheese and chili powder. That’s it. I know it sounds a bit different, but when you try it, the flavor combination is amazing!
Also, it’s such an easy recipe to make! So if you want authentic Mexican dishes, and you also want something quick, then this is great.
Quick Tip: When I was in Mexico, they also had the option for getting a cup of corn, and mixing the ingredients into the cup. So you don’t necessarily have to have corn on the cob to try this. 🙂
Oh, and enjoy a photo my husband took of me gracefully eating this amazing Mexican food. 👌 😂
63. Mexican Street Tacos
I LOVE Mexican street tacos.
The meat is so flavorful and juicy and when it’s topped with some lime, salsa, and cilantro, you have an incredible meal!
Like I could eat probably 20 or 30 of them and not feel guilty.
Oh and if you’re ever in Mexico, then don’t ever think of passing them up, they’re so SO good. 👍
Here’s a video of the tacos we got in Mexico City, there was such a big crowd!
64. Tacos de Canasta
I am addicted tacos de canasta, (or basket tacos)!
They’re tacos filled with many different types of fillings (potatoes, chorizo, eggs, beef, etc.) that have been steamed with spiced oil and held in a hot basket to keep its warm and freshness.
And if you ever run into a place that makes tacos de canasta, then run to it! You need to try these!
The photo above is one I took after having gone on a tacos de canasta run to Tacos La Capilla, with my friend. I think we ordered around 30 of them to go (that’s not a joke). 😂
65. Mulitas
Mulitas are very similar to quesadillas, but one of the main differences is that they’re made with corn tortillas. And I personally feel like corn tortillas are way better tasting!
There’s so much more flavor and while I didn’t make this specific recipe, I have made something very similar and it tastes incredible!
Also, just look at how thick those tortillas are, and that cheese and meat looks like it would taste incredible! 🤩
Mexican Desserts
66. Mexican Arroz Con Leche (Mexican Rice Pudding)
I love rice pudding! It’s so refreshing and delicious.
But the Mexican version sounds pretty darn good!
With cinnamon sticks, cinnamon powder, and condensed and whole milk, this is going to be one rich and delicious recipe! 👌
67. Pan de Elote
Corn bread is already a delicious comfort food you can have with soup, so I can only imagine how good the Mexican version of this recipe is.
I mean sweet corn bread with cinnamon? Yes, I need this now. 👌
68. Buñuelos
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I remember the first time I had Buñuelos.
I was at the street vendors and saw this stack of thin flaky and bubbly looking flat pastry-like dessert, stacked high.
And if I remember correctly, when I ordered it, they were fried again, and broken up into smaller pieces. Then they poured this sugary syrup that had passion fruit and other delicious ingredients in it.
I was kind of sad I hadn’t had it sooner. 😅
And if this sounds good to you, then I’d definitely try it out! It’s so good!
69. Pan de Polvo
I love shortbread cookies and these Mexican ones sound so good!
They’re flaky, sweet, and cinnamony, so if you’re looking for some delicate looking delicious cookies to have with your coffee, then I think these will be a fun dessert to make this week.
70. Churros
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
Churros are such a great dessert, and they tasty especially good when you have the right dipping sauces (like dulce de leche or chocolate).
And if you’re new to them, they’re essentially fried dough with sugar and cinnamon and they’re super fun to eat!
71. Fresas Con Crema
I read over the ingredients for this recipe, and I need it soon!
It has things like sweetened condensed milk and Mexican crema, so I can only imagine just how rich and delicious this dessert is!
72. Flan
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
If you haven’t had true Mexican flan, then you need to try it right away!
I remember the first time I had it in Mexico, it was kind of silly. 😅
My husband and I were on a date at a nice restaurant called El Presidio, and when we ordered dessert, my husband got the flan.
I tried talking him out of it, since I grew up with the boxed pudding mix version, but he didn’t listen, and I’m so glad he didn’t!
In fact, when I tried his flan, it was one of the best things I ever tasted! And I also wanted to steal his dessert. 😂
It was pudding-like, but a bit caky too. And the flavors were rich and sweet, not watery.
So I would definitely recommend trying the traditional version of this amazing Mexican dessert! ♥️
73. Flan de Elote
I read the description for this Mexican recipe, and this dessert sounds incredible!
I mean with ingredients like cream cheese, condensed milk, and a sweet and toasted caramel sauce, I feel like it’s going to super rich and delicious!
74. Conchas
If you’re wanting a good Mexican pastry, then a conchas is probably a great place to start!
It’s a classic and it’s such a nice soft sweet bread. So if you’re craving something you can get in a panaderias (Mexican bakery), then I’d check out this authentic recipe.
It looks like a nice sweet to have with some hot creamy coffee. ☕️
75. Tres Leches Cake
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
This is kind of the dessert you get when you’re not afraid of sugar.
It’s this super delicious cake that’s been soaked in three different types of milk:
- Whole milk or cream
- Evaporated
- Condensed
And of course it’s topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. So if you’re having friends or family over, then this might be a nice dessert to pull out!
76. Gorditas de Nata
If you like savory gorditas, then you’ll like this dessert version of them.
Apparently they’re buttery, soft, and a little bit sweet, and can go great with a nice hot drink.
Being similar to an English muffin recipe, it’s made with wheat flour, Mexican nata, sugar, and other ingredients.
They’re cooked on a comal, which is a Mexican griddle, and it’s believed to have originated in Pachuga, Hidalgo.
Apparently, they were sold by locals on the sides of highways. If this is true, then people must’ve liked it, because it’s stuck around!
Drinks
77. Oaxacan Hot Chocolate
I know we’ve all heard about Mexican hot chocolate, but one of the best versions you can probably have is Oaxacan hot chocolate!
Also, in my opinion, Oaxacan cuisine is probably the best regional food you can have in Mexico. And a lot of my friends in Mexico think the same. 👌
I remember trying out the Oaxacan restaurant, Zandunga, in Santiago de Queretaro (where I spend the majority of my time in Mexico). They had such good food, like their Oaxacan mole chilaquiles. But their hot chocolate was something I LOVED to get.
It was frothy, creamy, rich, and I could have drunk 5 mugs of it.
Also, when I told our friends about the incredible food I had that week, and mentioned that it was Oaxacan, they leaned back and went, “Oh… Oaxacan food.” They were jealous. 😂
So basically, if you ever see a restaurant serving this type of cuisine, don’t hold back, just go.
Here’s a recipe that uses Oaxacan chocolate specifically! 🙂
78. Horchata
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
I LOVE horchata!
It’s so refreshing, delicious, and good Mexican drink!
It’s a rice cinnamon drink and it’s prefect for a hot summer’s day. ☀️
Or anytime of the year honestly.
Pro Tip: When I was in Mexico City, I had horchata caliente (hot horchata), and it was so incredible! It was thick, creamy, cinnamony, and the perfect comfort drink.
We had it at place called, Casa Churra, and if you want to try it yourself, then I’d check out this horchata caliente recipe.
Just know that I haven’t tried this recipe personally, but it sounds good! Also, you’ll need to have your Google Translate extension on since it’s in Spanish. 🙂
79. Agua de Tamarindo
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico
Agua de Tamarindo is so good! It’s one of my favorite refreshing drinks to have on a hot day.
And it’s kind of hard to explain, but it’s this tangy sweet drink made with the pods from the tamarind tree. Also, it’s pretty simple, only three ingredients!
I definitely recommend it!
80. Café de Olla
Have I Had It? Yes.
At Home or in Mexico? Mexico and at Home
Cooking Tips and Notes: You can get really good Café de Olla mixes, and save yourself the time, or make it yourself. Up to you!
Café de Olla is one of my favorite Mexican drinks.
It’s a delicious coffee drink that’s made with different spices and ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, and piloncillo (or brown sugar).
It’s a super comforting drink that you can have as is or with a bit of milk.
Mexican Dishes FAQ
Now that you have some incredible ideas for Mexican dishes to try, I thought I’d go into some helpful answers on some frequently asked questions.
And if you don’t see your question answered below, feel free to ask me in the comments! 🙂
It depends!
Like any traditional cuisine, there are healthy and unhealthy dishes, But here are some good recommendations for healthy Mexican foods to try:
– Seafood Ceviche
– Sopa Azteca
– Tacos de Camaron
– Pozole
– Fajitas
Comida is their main meal of the day, and it’s their lunch. It takes place around 2-4PM, and is also the heaviest meal of the day. But the time can vary from region to region.
The answer for this can vary, but in my opinion, the Mexican foods I’ve seen the most, while traveling full time, have been, burritos, tacos, and tamales.
Mexico is a HUGE country, so what the people eat will vary and be diverse. But here is a simple list of some of the main ingredients commonly seen in Mexico.
– Flour and corn tortillas
– Beans of various types
– Salsas
– Eggs
– Rice
– Chilis
– Onions
– Tacos
– Tortas
– Soup
– Different meats such as steak, pork, or chicken.
Mexican dishes are special for so many reasons, and here are just a few.
First is that there are pre-hispanic techniques, recipes, and ingredients that make the dishes so flavorful and unique.
But on top of that, there is just this beautiful process, and care, that they put into their recipes.
And after hundreds of years of traditions passed down, you get this amazingly flavorful Mexican food that we have today.
I really do hope that these ideas for Mexican food helped you find new types of dishes to try.
I really do want you to get the best of Mexican cuisine!
And I know that you’re going to have a lot of fun trying these different meals, so please let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear all about it!
Grace is the owner of Chasing Foxes, a lifestyle blog that's here to help women level up their lives in almost every way possible.
