The Olmec’s where the first inhabitants of the country; and they utilized hunting and collective methods as means to obtain food. After them came the Mayans; whose major food discovery was cacao and they also utilized more advanced methods of agriculture. The Aztecs came after the Mayans and food collection saw its switch towards food production. The Aztecs started cultivating, domesticating and utilizing more efficient ways to grow crops. Then the Spanish arrived, who not only brought a different culture, but also a different diet. It is this mix, of Spaniard and native foods, which we now come to recognize as Mexican food. It is also important to mention that there are other minor influences to Mexican food, such as African, Asian, and Middle Eastern influences, however they re not as significant as the Spaniard influence. …show more content…
Mexican kitchen is considered one of the most important activities in Mexican culture.
Mexican food is praised for its variety of plates, flavours, condiments and beauty. It is important to highlight that this culinary art still remains women dominant. Also individual’s daily routines are based around food, which is why food is so important in Mexican society as it unites people. Another amazing attribute to Mexican cousin is the fact that there are dishes specifically designated for festive days and important occasions. For example; Chilles rellenos, which appearance reflects the colours of the Mexican flag, are specifically served on Independence
Day.
Many nations, particularly the United States of America, have created adaptations of Mexican food. However there is nothing that compares to authentic Mexican food. The most important ingredients in Mexican gastronomy include corn, cereals (rice and wheat), vegetables and nopal; and some of the most utilized condiments are garlic, onion, oregano, parsley, epazote, chile and coriander. Some of the most recognized and tasteful Mexican dishes are enchiladas (Corn tortilla, filled with beans/meat/chicken, covered in with either tomato sauce or mole), quesadillas (corn tortillas filled with cheese), tacos (corn tortilla with any ‘guisado’ or meat), mole (Dry chiles, chocolate and many other condiments), tamales (corn paste filled with chile, mole, meat, chicken, beans, fruits, gelatine, etc)
In conclusion, Mexican food reflects Mexican culture, art and history. While every state has its own traditional dishes, festive day dishes are shared amongst the entire nation. Mexican food keeps being one of México’s best attractions and is, according to the UNESCO, part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2010; which protects traditional methods and highlights Mexico’s importance towards the universal cuisine.