Mexican gastronomy is one of the best known worldwide. The typical foods in Mexico raise passions, but also a list of doubts and curiosities about the most famous Mexican dishes, traditional food, the way to eat tacos or its impact on sustainable gastronomy.

For years we have been advising and designing sustainable trips to Mexico in which gastronomy has a place of preference. Therefore, we are able to make a compilation of the most delicious and traditional dishes to try when you visit Mexico in a sustainable way, hopefully in the company of our local guides.

10 typical foods in Mexico

In exotic flavors it is difficult to beat the varied Mexican gastronomy and stay with a few recommendations among so many rich dishes offered by this country.

Finally, with sustainability in mind and to find a starting point to offer you, we have compiled a sample of the 10 typical foods in Mexico recommended by our local Spanish-speaking agents, experts in the destination and selected by Enjoy Travel Group.

Huevos rancheros

When it comes to breakfast, huevos rancheros are a Mexican classic that cannot be missed on the table. Made with eggs, tomato sauce, chili, corn tortilla, avocado, beans and cheese, they combine in a symphony of flavors that teleport everyone who tries them back to the roots of Mexican gastronomy.

They originated on ranches, where day laborers would gather at dawn to enjoy a comforting breakfast before facing the hard day’s work under the sun. However, there is something more important about huevos rancheros than just their taste, and that is the choice of local and organic ingredients that promote the country’s environmental sustainability.

Chilaquiles

If you’re looking for an explosion of flavors early on, Mexican chilaquiles immerse you in the culinary richness of Mexico from the first bite.

Their recipe is made up of crispy totopos, those little triangles of fried corn, bathed in spicy sauce that not only awaken you, but also your senses. And if that weren’t enough, layers of sour cream, melted cheese, onion and eggs are added.

The history behind this Mexican dish dates back to ancient times, when community dwellers used corn as a staple in their daily diet. From fresh corn tortillas to homemade tomato sauce, by opting for local and seasonal products, you not only bring out the authentic flavor, but also support Mexican farmers.

Pozole

Pozole may be the most emblematic soup among the typical Mexican meals. Its main ingredient is corn kernels, combined with meat and vegetables, resulting in a hearty dish.

With so many ingredients, it is to be expected that there is not just one way to prepare it. In fact, there are different regional variations, such as green and red pozole, distinguished by the types of chiles.

While green pozole usually contains chicken, red pozole is made with pork. In either case, they are accompanied with avocado, onion, cilantro and radishes, which adds freshness.

Tacos

If you are looking for a respectful experience with sustainable gastronomy in Mexico, keep in mind that tacos are the star dish. It is one of the most typical foods of the country and its popularity goes beyond its borders.

These folded and filled corn tortillas are a true culinary masterpiece that reflects the diversity and richness of the cuisine. They serve as the base for tacos, although some variants use wheat flour tortillas.

Its history dates back to ancient Mesoamerican civilizations and today, the process of corn cultivation and tortilla production is transforming towards more sustainable practices.

Farmers and producers are committed to cultivation methods that respect the environment and promote biodiversity. For this reason, tacos are one of the best gastronomic options if you want to travel to Mexico. travel to Mexico in a sustainable way.

As for their fillings, there is an impressive variety: from the classic carnitas and al pastor tacos to shrimp in coastal areas or cochinita pibil.

Consult our local guides for their explanations and advice on the world of taquerias or our trusted places where you can taste the best tacos.

Tamales

Tamales have been a classic Mexican food since ancient times. They are made with a corn flour dough filled with shredded meat, chiles or other ingredients.

They are then wrapped in banana or corn leaves before being steamed, and represent the ability and creativity of Mexican culture to take advantage of local ingredients in a sustainable manner.

Many tourists are surprised when we tell them that these leaves, so common in nature, not only offer an aesthetic and aromatic touch to dishes, but also serve as natural wrappings.

Nopales

Nopales are the perfect example of sustainable gastronomy in Mexico, since this hardy and versatile plant requires little water and can grow in poor soils. Hence, it is common in arid and semi-arid regions.

In addition, nopales are a nutritious source of minerals, vitamins and fiber. Their sustainable cultivation helps conserve water and prevent soil erosion, which promotes respectful agricultural practices.

Birria

Along with pozole, birria is another of the most delicious Mexican soups. It is prepared with mutton or beef marinated with a mixture of chiles and spices.

This traditional dish is an example of how Mexican cuisine uses local ingredients and cooking techniques to create intense flavors.

It is served with fresh vegetables cut into pieces, making the dish much fresher.

Cochinita pibil

Cochinita pibil is a Yucatán specialty that has crossed borders. It owes its name and stands out for its traditional way of cooking in an underground oven called ‘pib’.

This ancient technique produces juicy, flavorful meat and uses local resources in a sustainable manner.

The combination of ingredients such as lemon or orange juice, spices or pork marinated in achiote highlight the richness of the gastronomy and its connection to the land.

Each piece of meat is an ode to the Mexican land and sun.

Mole

Mole is not a dish as such, it is actually a sauce that accompanies most Mexican dishes on the table.

This sauce is made with a mixture of chiles, fruits, spices and chocolate, among other ingredients. And although it is very laborious, the result is a unique explosion of flavors.

You can find a multitude of moles, such as poblano or black. In any case, it is a dish that unites generations and a tradition that leaves a mark on the palate of those who try it.

Enchiladas

You’ll want to try the enchiladas as soon as you smell their tantalizing aroma when they come out of the oven.

This classic dish of Mexican cuisine consists of corn tortillas rolled and dipped in sauce, filled with meat or other ingredients.

Their versatility and intense flavor make them a favorite in Mexico and around the world and transport you to the colorful streets of the country.

In addition, it does not lose sight of the use of local ingredients, positioning itself as a clear example of sustainable gastronomy in Mexico.

Let’s say that more than a dish, enchiladas are a sensory experience.

Mexican gastronomy and UNESCO

Mexico is among the top ten most visited countries in the world, with millions of international tourists each year.

This affluence is not only due to its pyramids, ruins, cenotes or paradisiacal beaches, but also to its gastronomy. In fact, UNESCO considers Mexican Mexican foodintangible heritage of humanity.

Its history, exotic combinations and ancestral techniques make its dishes a hallmark of the country’s identity, as well as contributing to sustainable gastronomy with ingredients obtained directly from the land.

In Enjoy Travel Group we are aware of this gastronomic richness and this commitment to sustainability and we want to share it with our customers. Discover other articles about Mexican gastronomy.

Contact us for more information for more information. It will be a pleasure to help you in your next trip to this wonderful country.