| Mexican food is so much more than tacos and | | | | In southern Mexico, you may find yourself wandering |
| burritos. Every region in Mexico has its own unique | | | | the Yucatan Peninsula. Oaxaca is part of this region. |
| signature of flavors and ingredients. There are three | | | | This area is known for its rugged terrain and isolated |
| major regions in Mexico that are divided into North, | | | | towns. Due to this isolation, Oaxaca enjoys a |
| Central, and South. Each region has smaller | | | | reputation for truly authentic Mexican cuisine. The |
| sub-regions with their own special niche. | | | | culinary customs of centuries past are intact here. One |
| The North is cattle country. Both dairy and beef cows | | | | of the most delicious local snacks is a dish of grilled |
| are raised in this arid, rugged part of Mexico. Wheat is | | | | chilies smothered in melted local cheese. Travelers |
| also grown, so many recipes will use flour, such as | | | | from all over the world visit here to enjoy the true |
| tortillas. Tortillas are made fresh every day and are | | | | taste of Mexico. |
| often used to hold spreads and creamy fillings. The | | | | Mexico is a terrific place to take a culinary tour. Each |
| local dairies produce fresh cheeses that are enjoyed in | | | | region and even cities within each region offer you |
| many ways. | | | | new taste sensations that even the most dedicated |
| In the North, foods are a lot simpler than in other | | | | foodie will enjoy. Traveling through Mexico will expand |
| regions of Mexico. Northern foods are also less spicy. | | | | your palate to flavors you only dreamed of. |
| Food is often prepared over an open flame, which | | | | Top your meal off with a Mexican dessert. These |
| adds a lot of flavor. Enchiladas, stews, and beans are | | | | desserts are a wonderful treat on their own. Choose |
| common ingredients in the North. Mild chilies like | | | | from a creamy flan to Mexican Wedding cookies... |
| Anaheims are often used for their subtle heat. A | | | | every dessert is delicious. Take bunuelos, for instance. |
| simple salsa made of tomatoes, chilies, and onions | | | | This holiday dessert is a crisp pastry covered in sugar |
| called pico de gallo is served at almost every meal. | | | | and cinnamon. It is the perfect accompaniment to |
| The Central region of Mexico is green and fertile. The | | | | coffee or hot chocolate. |
| influence of the Spaniards is high here and you can | | | | Using food to explore the culture, history, and beauty |
| find many recipes that contain foods the Spanish | | | | of Mexico is a great way to really learn about this |
| introduced to Mexico like rice, dairy and pork. Open air | | | | fabulous country. Try recipes from every region. You |
| markets sell fresh produce like avocados, chilies, and | | | | will come away with a better understanding of |
| sweet potatoes. Favorite dishes like picadillo (a mixture | | | | Mexico's diversity. Do not forget the desserts, either. |
| of raisins, almonds, and meat used as filling in tacos | | | | Some special desserts are only available at certain |
| and tortillas) are found almost everywhere. If you visit | | | | times of the year, while others can be eaten every |
| Veracruz, you will soon learn that seafood is the | | | | day. Let Mexico introduce you to a wonderful world of |
| primary source of protein. Foods here are influenced | | | | food. |
| by Spain, Africa, and France. | | | | |