Cinco De Mayo Recipe: Mexican Beef Pie

This easy casserole makes it simple to prepare a great Cinco De Mayo meal without a lot of work. Tasty Mexican ingredients such as corn, tomatoes, cornmeal, and chili powder go great together with the ground beef, and the ease of preparation will make this one a hit for your Cinco De Mayo party! Feel free to add other ingredients if you like, and if you like it spicy, add crushed red pepper, or substitute a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for the plain tomatoes. Sprinkle with cheese if desired before serving.

Happy Cinco De Mayo!

Mexican Beef Pie

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground beef
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 Tbsp butter
12 oz corn
15 oz diced tomatoes (do not drain juice)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp chili powder
3 cups water
1 cup cornmeal 
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup ripe olives, chopped

Directions:

1.  Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Get out a skillet and sauté ground beef and onion in butter until beef is browned. Add the corn, tomatoes, pepper, salt, and chili powder; set aside.
2. Boil the 3 cups water in a medium saucepan. Once it begins to boil, slowly stir in the cornmeal and 1 teaspoon of salt. Turn it down to low heat and stir constantly, cooking, until very thick. Remove from heat and add the beaten egg and olives. 
3. In a 2 quart casserole dish, spread half the cornmeal mixture and top with beef mixture. Use the remaining cornmeal mixture and drop by spoonful on top of the beef mixture layer. 
4. Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until nicely browned.

Cooking for Cinco De Mayo

Those who live in the American southwest have experienced the fanfare and celebrations of Cinco de Mayo a little longer than perhaps many other states across the U. S. though the exposure is most definitely growing. As a result more and more people of various ethnicities are joining in the celebration and adding Cinco de Mayo to their list of favorite holidays. Whether it's the music, the dancing, the drinks, or the food that is most enjoyable about this holiday no one is really sure. However, when you combine them all you have a holiday that is difficult to match in gusto and fun! But for some of us, the food is most definitely the draw.

Cinco de Mayo menu ideas (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Mexican food is becoming an almost Americanized version of itself in many restaurants across the United States. One reason is because it's just that popular. Even small towns are beginning to have as many Mexican restaurants as they do Chinese or Italian. This is good news on one hand as it indicates a growing desire on behalf of Americans to try the cuisine of our neighbors. It has also managed to get us accustomed to the wonderful flavors of Mexican cuisines and we are beginning more and more often to bring these cuisines into our own homes.

If you are looking for some great foods to cook for your family on Cinco de Mayo then you've definitely come to the right place for ideas and inspiration.  This week we will be featuring tasty recipes along a Cinco de Mayo theme, so you can prepare for the festivities next Monday!

If you are looking for something fun and festive, try creating a taco or fajita bar that lets everyone add their favorite ingredients to their tacos and/or fajitas and keeps the favorite sides such as black beans, refried beans, and Mexican rice close by to complement the meal. This is an excellent idea if you are situated in a manner that allows for buffet style serving of family, friends, and honored guests. It's a lot of fun and you can generally get people to help out or pitch in on the preparations and bringing their favorite toppings along. Be sure to have plenty of everything and refills that need to be chilled on ice and those that need to be kept warm in containers that allow for proper food safety.

If you need something that is a little more portable, especially if you have little ones that tend to wander around with their food, then quesadillas may be the perfect solution. They are delicious, they are easy to walk around with if you have them cut properly, they are fun to make and they do not require a good deal of difficulty in the preparation - especially if you make the $20 investment in a good quesadillas maker. You can put one in at a time and let them cook until they are ready. Clean up is a snap and you have a lot of happy campers with full bellies.

Keep the music upbeat and Mexican-inspired to further the tone of the party and the food will even digest  better if you get up and dance around a bit! Enjoy the spirit of the celebration. In other words, have fun!  Don't spend the entire day in the kitchen fretting over whether you've made enough or if you need to make more. Have a few options available for one and all and leave it at that. If they are still hungry they can always "make a run for the border," although I'm quite certain that all will agree that your food was far superior to any fast food offerings in town. :-)

Be sure to check back for some tasty Mexican-themed recipes later this week!

Recipe: Grilled Chicken Fajita Dinner In A Pouch

This easy-peasy yummy dinner takes little prep time, so you can spend your time enjoying the great outdoors on a summer evening, instead of cooking away in the kitchen. Grilling food in foil packets makes it easy to cook a full meal at once, and clean up of course is a snap - you won't even get the grill dirty! Enjoy this tasty summer dinner for a picnic with friends, or just a lazy summer evening at home in the backyard.

Grilled Chicken Fajita Dinner In A Pouch
(Serves 4.)

Ingredients:

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

4 teaspoons Mexican seasoning powder or chili powder
4 tablespoons lime juice
1 1/2 lbs chicken, cubed into 1/2 inch pieces
2 bell peppers, diced small
2 onions, diced small
tortillas for serving (optional)

Directions:

• Mix Mexican seasoning and lime juice together in a bowl, then add the chicken and bell peppers, and cover with plastic wrap. Put in refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
• Make 4 pouches out of aluminum foil and spoon mixture (including the liquid) into the center of each pouch, dividing ingredients equally.
• Fold edges of pouches tightly and form envelopes, leaving a bit of room for hot air and expansion within the pouch.
• Put on grill set at medium-high and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning the pouches several times to cook evenly.
• Serve on tortillas with toppings such as sour cream or guacamole, if desired.  This meal may also be served over a salad.

Recipe: Grilled Chicken Salsa Verde Burritos

From Asian to Mexican, grilling can bring many exotic flavors right to your own backyard. Today's recipe features spicy salsa verde and creamy avocado for a tasty and easy meal great for a quick lunch or dinner in a shady spot on a hot summer day!

Grilled Chicken Salsa Verde Burritos (Serves 4.)

Flour Tex-Mex tortillas (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts, skin and bones removed
olive oil for grilling
salt and pepper
1 cup salsa verde
8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
1 avocado, sliced thin
2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese

Directions:

• Set your grill up for medium-high heat.
• Rub the chicken with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place chicken on grill, close cover, and cook for 5 minutes, flip and cook for 5 more minutes.
• Remove from grill and let rest on a cutting board for 3 minutes; then slice chicken into thin strips and place in large bowl.
• Add salsa verde to bowl with chicken and stir gently to combine; set aside
• Place tortillas on the grill just until grill marks appear, flip and do the same to the other side. Remove to working surface.
• Lay out tortillas and divide the chicken slices, avocado, and cheese evenly between all the tortillas and roll up into a burrito.
• Makes 8 small burritos.

Recipe: Mexican Quinoa Salad

Quinoa goes ethnic with this delicious recipe - perfect for a summer brunch or light supper. The mild flavor and nutty crunch of quinoa lends itself well to Mexican spices and veggies. Corn, salsa, cilantro, and black beans meld perfectly for a flavor combo that is sure to please. Make it spicier with medium or hot salsa instead if desired, and feel free to use fresh veggies from your garden when they're available for even fresher and healthier flavors!

Mexican Quinoa Salad
(Serves 4-6.)

Ingredients:

2 cups water
1 large diced tomato
6 green leaf lettuce leaves, torn
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/8 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp chili powder
3/4 cup mild chunky salsa
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/4 cups quinoa, well rinsed
1/2 large chopped sweet onion

Directions:

1.  In a medium saucepan, bring two cups water to a boil, then stir in quinoa.
2. Reduce heat to medium, cover and simmer ten minutes. 
3. Add corn, 1/4 cup salsa, beans, salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
4. Return mixture to a boil, then cover and cook two to five minutes more, until quinoa is just tender. 
5. Stir in olive oil, 1/4 cup salsa, and cilantro. Simmer until thickened. 
6. Top lettuce leaves with quinoa mixture, onion, tomato, and remaining 1/4 cup of salsa for individual servings.

Breakfast in Mexico

El Desayuno is the word for breakfast in Mexico. It normally consists of a hardy meal containing many colors, spices and flavors. Breakfast varies depending on the region. Some produce is not available in other regions. It also varies because of ethnic diversity. Breakfast dishes have a long history that dates back to the Aztecs and Mayans and also from Spanish rule for more than three centuries.

Tortillas are not just for dinner. You can find most people in Mexico eating them for Breakfast. The tortillas are made into burritos, tacos, and tostados. Beside the tortilla on their plate, are usually colorful fruits and vegetables. It is common to eat a variety for Breakfast. Vegetables include tomatoes, and red green Image via Wikipediapeppers. Fresh fruits enjoyed at Breakfast are Watermelons, Oranges, Pineapples, and Strawberries. Plato de Frutas is a great breakfast dish that consists of many different fruits. It is pretty much what you would find a fruit salad. Some fruits in Plato de frutas are melons, bananas, mangoes, and sometimes papayas.

Eggs are also common in Mexican breakfast. A dish that has become popular in much of the Americas is Huevos rancheros. The name means eggs that are ranch-style. The most common version of the dish consists of corn tortillas that are lightly fried and fried or scrambled eggs with a chili sauce. Other foods that are typically added to the dish include beans, olives, avocados, and fried potatoes. Another dish that involves eggs is Huevos Motulenos. The eggs are made on tortillas and covered with tomatoes, beans, peas, ham, and chilies. A dish that doesn't include eggs, but is seen during breakfast in Mexico is Chilaquiles. It is tortillas that are stir fried with onions, and spices and sometimes with added chicken. It is topped with cheese and served with a type of gravy sauce.       

Mexicans love chocolate and enjoy it in the morning. You may be thinking of chocolate bars, but for residents of Mexico, it is to drink. The chocolate is thin discs that are put into water or milk and melted. People also add other ingredients that make it not the same as hot chocolate. This may include vanilla, cream, egg yolks, and cinnamon. Even though chocolate is a favorite, Mexicans still like having coffee in the morning like the rest of North America.

Image via WikipediaMexican coffee is more light and nutty in flavor than Coffee in the United States with a touch of a chocolate taste. It is comparable to expensive brands of coffee in America. When drinking, it may leave a burnt after taste at first, but it becomes normal after a few more sips. Coffee is Mexico's most popular morning drink.

If ever on a vacation in Mexico, try staying at a Bed and Breakfast. You will be served an authentic Mexican breakfast. If you do not travel, look in your local white pages for your nearest authentic Mexican restaurants. Many of them serve breakfast items.

Another good way on trying breakfast Mexican style is by searching for recipes and giving them a try. Once you try the foods, you might just add them to your everyday morning!


Tasty Breakfast and Other Mexican Recipes:
   

Tasty and Healthy Mexican Recipes

We are continuing "Mexico week" with a collection of great recipes - we've tried to stick to authentic ones, and with a healthier slant. Check out the links below for everything from Mexican breakfast ideas all the way to breads and desserts. And we'd love your feedback on your favorite Mexican recipes as well!

Be sure to check back Friday to learn about Mexican breakfasts, and for some great Mexican recipe resources. 

Image via WikipediaMexican Molletes recipe
Molletes recipe from authentic Mexican cuisine. This is an easy to cook authentic Mexican breakfast recipe that is both filling and super delicious!
Publish Date: 10/04/2011 1:03
http://eauthenticmexicanrecipes.com/mexican-breakfast/mexican-molletes-recipe

Easy Authentic Mexican Food Recipes - Shrimp Broccoli Fettuccine ...
This article contains a collection of easy and authentic Mexican food recipes that you can try at home. Intensely flavoured, uniquely spicy and brilliantly colourful, authentic Mexican cuisine has something to offer to everyone.
Publish Date: 07/22/2011 18:16
http://feelhungry.com/easy-mexican-recipes

Mexican Soup – Traditional Menudo Recipe
Other popular ingredients in menudo include crushed red chilies, oregano, onions and cilantro, although there are various recipes for menudo and each is slightly different. Hominy is added to this soup in northern Mexico ...
Publish Date: 11/02/2011 1:33
http://bestproductdetail.com/mexican-soup-traditional-menudo-recipe/

My Sweet Mexico: Recipes for Authentic Pastries, Breads, Candies ...
Most of the recipes are ones you will not have seen, unless you too have been to Mexico. Many of the recipes are regional or even city treasures. Somewhat like Italy, Mexico is divided by mountains into regions, each with its ...
Publish Date: 11/03/2011 10:52
http://cookingbythebook.com/blog/cookbook-reviews/sweet-mexico-recipes-authentic-pastries-breads-candies-beverages-frozen-treats/

Calabaza En Tacha, Mexican Candied Pumpkin
Calabaza en Tacha; Candied pumpkin; Mexican; recipes; Mexican pumpkin; Mexican Candied Calabaza en tacha or candied pumpkin is a traditional food served for el Dia de Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. El Dia de ...
Publish Date: 11/02/2011 4:42
http://www.spiciefoodie.com/2011/11/02/calabaza-en-tacha-mexican-candied-pumpkin-vegetarian/

 

More Tasty Mexican Recipes:

• Three-Course Mexican Meal for Two or Four Including Appetizers, Entrees, and Desserts at Chiles & Chocolate (Up to 68% Off). Four Options Available. (bxcheapskate.com)
• Mexican Spiced Flan for Dia de los Muertos (beautifulmemorablefood.wordpress.com)
• Recipe for Easy Guacamole Tostadas (kalynskitchen.com)
• Food Diary: Fajitas ARE Paleo-Possible! (easypaleo.com)
• Healthy Recipe: Beef Enchiladas (skinnypinkninja.wordpress.com)

How Healthy is Mexican Food?

If you ask majority of Americans on when the last time they ate Mexican food, usually it is within the last week. Mexican foods have become very popular in the United States. The problem is that the Mexican foods in America are not the same as they are in Mexico. Americans have added super fat and super sized the meals. If you go down to Mexico, you may not even find the same dishes because the dishes were created in America. Authentic Mexican food is rich in fresh vegetables, protein, and nutritious vitamins and spices.

Image via WikipediaTaco Bell comes to mind as a popular food chain that serves Mexican foods. You will find tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. People in Mexico usually do not eat big platters of tortilla chips in their everyday meals. Because of the food sold in the United States, it is not very healthy. The Mexican foods in America are not as rich in nutrients. It contains high fat, sodium, and calories. It also does not include as many fresh vegetables.

Most traditional Mexican dishes have less fat and calories. This doesn't mean you cannot enjoy the foods served in American restaurants. You can add more healthy foods to the dish. Tomatoes are high in vitamins and have lycopene which has cancer-fighting properties. Tomatoes can be added to many Mexican dishes. Beans carry high protein and fiber. Instead of eating the beans refried, try getting them whole. It cuts back on the fat. Corn is another vegetable that is healthy in Mexican foods. It is high in vitamins and contains fiber. Adding these to your Mexican dishes will make them healthier than what you are served at Taco Bell.

You may be wondering if people in Mexico eat healthier foods. In America we have the choice to go to health food stores where we can find organic foods and foods not as fattening. The only drawback is that not everyone can afford to buy these foods whenever they grocery shop. In Mexico, healthier choices are available. Each year the health food market in Mexico makes over $500 Million. The consumers make up 5 percent of Mexico's population. Their age range is from 20 to 50 years old. They usually live in metropolitan areas and can afford to buy these types of healthier foods. If they cannot afford it, they still are not getting all the fats and calories that we find in American foods, especially fast-foods. Authentic Mexican foods still carry many vegetables and ingredients that are good for your body, and also the way the food is cooked is healthier.  

You are probably wondering again, is Mexican food healthy for me. Authentic Mexican dishes are, because they carry many vitamins and are generally low in fat. America has fattened up the Mexican dishes making them not a good choice. If you want to go out to eat, try avoiding the major Mexican food chain restaurants. Find a restaurant that serves authentic dishes. It is healthier and will taste even better knowing you are giving your body good foods. 

Cook Healthy Authentic Mexican Foods:
   

Crockpot Recipe: South of the Border Chicken Tortillas

Here is a great, easy and simple recipe for those who love Mexican food.  Just pop it in the crockpot (takes only a few minutes to prepare), let cook all day while you're busy doing other stuff, and voila - tasty dinner all ready for those big appetites at dinnertime!
Personally I don't like using a lot of canned stuff, so I use a mixture of sour cream, yogurt (for less fat content), and a bit of chicken broth or chicken boullion to substitute for the cream of chicken soup. It turns out just as good or better!  You can also make your own enchilada sauce if you prefer.
As always, feel free to experiment and post your results!


Crockpot South of the Border Chicken Tortillas


What You Need:
3 TB canola or olive oil
4 lg. chicken breasts
1 (19 oz) can of enchilada sauce
2 (11 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
1 (4.25 oz) can black olives, sliced
2 dozen corn tortillas
1 lg. onion, chopped
1 (8 oz) pkg. taco style cheese

How to Make It:
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil.
Once the oil is heated add the chicken.
Cook about 5 minutes per side.
Remove and allow to cool.
Once the chicken has cooled it can be shredded.
Cut the tortillas into 8 wedges per tortilla.
In a large mixing bowl combine the soup, olives and onions.
Begin layering in the crock pot with the enchilada sauce on the bottom.
Then add the tortillas, soup, chicken and the cheese in that order.
Continue layering in that order to the top being sure to end with the cheese.
Cover and cook on low temperature 7 hours.

Tip: This is best served in a bowl and topped with sour cream or guacamole.  

Related easy dinner articles:

• 5 Simple Ways to Get Dinner on the Table (thehappyhousewife.com)
• 7 Melt-in-Your-Mouth Mexican Recipes (lifescript.com)
• 7 Comforting Crock-Pot Recipes (lifescript.com)
• Recipes for Health: Green Chilaquiles With Chicken and Squash (nytimes.com)