When it comes to Mexican cuisine, the array of flavors and dishes can be both exciting and overwhelming. While many travelers are familiar with the classics—mole, pozole, tamales, chiles en nogada, enchiladas, tacos, and ceviche—the world of Mexican food extends far beyond these renowned dishes. Each region offers its own unique specialties and lesser-known delights, making every culinary adventure a new experience. Here’s a guide to some must-try Mexican foods that will enhance your vacation experience.
A savory stew from Jalisco, birria is typically made with tender beef or goat meat, simmered with a rich blend of spices and chiles. Often enjoyed in tacos or with a side of consommé, it’s a must-try for meat lovers.
This breakfast favorite features fried corn tortillas simmered in a flavorful salsa, topped with cheese, onions, and a dollop of cream. It’s a hearty and comforting way to start your day.
This Yucatecan specialty involves slow-roasting marinated pork wrapped in banana leaves. The result is a tender, flavorful dish often served with pickled onions and tortillas.
Small, thick tortillas with raised edges are topped with beans, meat, lettuce, cheese, and salsa, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish.
These fish tacos are often made with battered or grilled fish, topped with cabbage slaw and a creamy sauce. They’re fresh and flavorful.
Rajas Poblanas
Strips of roasted poblano peppers cooked with onions, cream, and cheese. This dish offers a rich, creamy taste with a mild heat.
Grilled corn on the cob, typically slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime. It’s a delicious street food enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Sandwiches made with bread soaked in a spicy red sauce and filled with potatoes, chorizo, and other ingredients. They’re a flavorful and filling option.
These tortillas filled with cheese and often other ingredients like mushrooms or meat, are then grilled to perfection. They’re simple yet incredibly satisfying.
Tacos filled with tender, slow-cooked pork that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They’re a staple in Mexican street food.
Crispy, flat tortillas topped with a variety of ingredients such as beans, meat, lettuce, and salsa. They offer a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors in every bite.
Thick, soft tortillas filled with meats, cheeses, or other fillings. They’re comforting and versatile, perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, these tacos are typically topped with pineapple, onions, and cilantro, offering a sweet and savory flavor combination.
Spicy, sautéed shrimp cooked in a rich, fiery sauce made from chiles. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Originating from Sinaloa, this dish features raw shrimp marinated in a spicy, tangy sauce made from chiles, lime juice, and cilantro. It’s a refreshing and zesty treat.
Tlayudas are large, crispy tortillas from Oaxaca topped with refried beans, meats, cheese, and fresh vegetables. This satisfying dish offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing and exploring traditional Mexican cuisine.
Tacos de Barbacoa feature tender, slow-cooked beef seasoned with spices and herbs, served in soft tortillas. Topped with cilantro, onions, and lime, these tacos provide a rich, savory flavor that's a staple of authentic Mexican cooking.
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Mexican desserts are truly exceptional. Classics like churros and flan are just the beginning. Here are some more you shouldn’t miss:
This light, spongy cake is soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk (evaporated, condensed, and cream), resulting in a sweet, moist dessert.
Fried dough discs dusted with sugar and cinnamon. They’re crispy and sweet, often enjoyed with syrup or honey.
A comforting rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Sometimes enhanced with raisins or nuts, it’s both creamy and satisfying.
A traditional bread pudding made with layers of bread, raisins, nuts, and a rich syrup made from piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). It’s a deeply flavorful and nostalgic treat.
A caramel-like treat made from goat’s milk. It can be enjoyed on its own, spread on bread, or used in other desserts.
A moist, sweet corn cake with a rich corn flavor. It’s a delightful alternative to more common desserts.
A soft, slightly sweet bread prepared for the Day of the Dead. It’s adorned with decorative shapes symbolizing bones and is a meaningful part of Mexican tradition.
Mexican cuisine is incredibly diverse, offering a vast array of flavors and textures to explore. From hearty savory dishes to delightful sweets, the country’s culinary landscape provides something for everyone. As you embark on your Mexican vacation, be sure to sample these must-try foods and desserts to fully experience the rich flavors and traditions of this vibrant culture. Enjoy your culinary journey!
