AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD

Authentic Mexican Food can Cure any Craving for a Wholesome and Hearty Meal!

Mexican food is one of the most easiest ethnic cuisines to cook at home, and you only need a few simple ingredients to whip up your own homemade guacamole, zesty salsa and crunchy tortilla chips.  If you’re looking for a satisfying and healthy snack, consider making up this tasty Mexican trio for your girl’s night in or when you need a break from your pretzels and fruit.  Here are some simple Mexican recipes to get started on making your own Mexican fiesta:

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE GUACAMOLE

Guacamole is a great addition to the Mexican appetizer table or for your snack plate; use it to top off chimichangas or tacos, or enjoy it with some homemade tortilla chips (see below) for a satisfying treat!

Ingredients: 2 large, very ripe avocados ½ red onion, chopped and diced 2 serrano chilies, chopped with stems and seeds removed 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 1 tablespoon lime juice ½ teaspoon salt ½ medium tomato, chopped and with seeds removed

Directions:  Cut the avocados in half and remove the seeds.  Scoop the avocado flesh from the peel and place in a small mixing bowl.  Mash the avocado with a fork, then add the next five ingredients into the mix until thoroughly combined.  Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours to set; serve topped with the fresh tomatoes, and enjoy!

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HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE SALSA

Homemade salsa is one of the best ways to enjoy this the classic Spanish/South American ‘sauce’ made with fresh tomatoes, onions, chili peppers and lime juice.  Here’s a simple recipe that you’re bound to make time and time again:

Ingredients: 6 cups chopped tomatoes ½ cup green onions, diced 1 – 1 ¼ cups fresh cilantro ¼ cup minced garlic (store-bought is fine, fresh is better!) ¼ cup chopped oregano 1/8 cup chili peppers or jalapeno peppers 1 red pepper, chopped 2 yellow peppers, chopped ¼ cup olive oil 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice Fresh chili powder, salt and pepper to taste

Directions: Chop all of the ingredients or combine in a food processor until you have the right consistency.  Store covered in the refrigerator for at least 6-8 hours so that the juices can settle and the vegetables are marinated.  Serve with homemade tortilla chips or use in your favorite Mexican dish to add some bold flavors!

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HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE TORTILLA CHIPS

If you’re a big fan of the homemade tortilla chips at the local Mexican restaurant, you’ll love this recipe that you can make right at home.  It only takes a few minutes to make warm, homemade chips in a broiler pan, and you can add your own flavorings and seasonings to liven up the tortilla chip basket!  Here’s a simple recipe for crispy tortilla chips with a cheesy twist:

Ingredients: 8 large flour tortillas 8 tablespoons olive oil Coarse salt 3-5 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese

Directions: Preheat the boiler and then cut each of the tortillas into wedges using a knife or pizza cutter.  You can cut them into triangles, squares or any other shape you want for your chips.  Brush both sides of the tortillas with olive oil, then place them on a broiler pan.  Broil on both sides, then sprinkle salt and cheese on top while they are still warm.  Let them cool for a few minutes before serving with homemade guacamole and salsa.  Enjoy!

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Sabah Karimi writes on food, health and lifestyle for DivaVillage.