National Mexican Food Day

Get ready to spice up your day because National Mexican Food Day is here! It's a celebration of all things delicious and mouth-watering from the vibrant culinary scene of Mexico. Whether you're a fan of tacos, enchiladas, or guacamole, this day is dedicated to indulging in the flavors that make Mexican cuisine so irresistible.

When is Mexican Food Day?

It's national mexican food day on the 5th May.

The Origin of National Mexican Food Day

Say "hola" to National Mexican Food Day, a day that pays homage to the rich history and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. This tasty celebration first gained popularity on May 5, 2015, where it was given special recognition online. Since then, food enthusiasts from around the world have been coming together every year on this day to savor the traditional dishes and innovative creations of Mexican gastronomy.

A Fiesta of Flavors

From sizzling street tacos to delectable tamales, Mexican food offers a mouthwatering range of flavors and ingredients. The use of aromatic spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano gives each dish a distinctive taste that is sure to make your taste buds dance with joy. Don't forget to top it off with some fresh avocado, tangy salsa, or crumbly queso fresco!

Exploring the Internet Buzz

On National Mexican Food Day, the internet is abuzz with foodies sharing their favorite recipes, dining experiences, and mouth-watering food photos. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook come alive with hashtags dedicated to this delicious day. It's the perfect opportunity to discover new Mexican restaurants, learn kitchen tips, and share your love for Mexican food with fellow enthusiasts.

History behind the term 'Mexican Food'

1521

The Conquest of Mexico

Mexican food can trace its origins back to the year 1521 when the Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, invaded the Aztec empire. The Spanish brought with them their own culinary influences, including ingredients such as wheat, rice, and various types of meats.

1521

The Spanish Conquest

In the year 1521, Spanish conquistadors led by Hernán Cortés arrived in present-day Mexico. This marked the beginning of the Spanish colonization of the region, which would greatly influence the development of Mexican cuisine. Spanish ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors merged with the pre-existing indigenous cuisine, creating a unique blend of flavors.

1521

The Spanish Conquest

Mexican food finds its roots in the Spanish conquest of Mexico in 1521. When Hernán Cortés and his Spanish troops conquered the Aztec empire, they brought their own culinary traditions and ingredients with them. This event marked the introduction of many Spanish foods and cooking techniques to the Mexican culture.

1521

The Spanish Conquest

Mexican cuisine has its roots in the blend of Indigenous Mesoamerican cooking techniques and Spanish ingredients. After the Spanish conquered the Aztec Empire in 1521, they introduced new ingredients like livestock, dairy products, and various spices to the region. The fusion of these elements with traditional Mesoamerican cooking laid the foundation for what would become Mexican cuisine.

1521

Spanish Conquest of Mexico

Mexican food finds its roots in the Spanish conquest of Mexico in 1521. The arrival of the Spanish brought a fusion of two vastly different culinary traditions: the native indigenous cuisine and the flavors of Spain. This blending of ingredients and techniques laid the foundation for what we now know as Mexican food.

1521

The Spanish Conquest

Mexican food finds its roots in the Spanish Conquest of Mexico in 1521. When the Spanish arrived in Mexico, they brought with them ingredients and cooking techniques from their own cuisine. This encounter between Spanish and indigenous cultures resulted in the fusion of flavors and the birth of what is now known as Mexican food.

1519

The Spanish Conquest

Mexican food finds its roots in the indigenous cultures of Mexico, with traditional dishes based on ingredients like corn, beans, chili peppers, and tomatoes. However, the introduction of Spanish cuisine during the Spanish conquest of Mexico in 1519 had a significant influence on the evolution of Mexican food. The Spanish brought in their own ingredients such as garlic, onions, olive oil, and various spices, and introduced new cooking techniques like frying.

1810

Mexican War of Independence

The Mexican War of Independence, which started in 1810, led to Mexico gaining independence from Spain in 1821. This period of political change also had an impact on Mexican cuisine. Mexican nationals sought to create a distinct Mexican identity, and this included a celebration of their native cuisine. The flavors and ingredients of Mexican food became a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage.

1821

Mexican Independence

After centuries of Spanish colonization, Mexico gained its independence in 1821. This marked a new era for Mexican cuisine as culinary traditions evolved and blended with indigenous cooking techniques and ingredients. The fusion of Spanish and indigenous flavors laid the foundation for what we now know as Mexican food.

1810

Mexican Independence

The fight for Mexican Independence in 1810 had a profound impact on the development of Mexican food. As Mexico sought to establish its own identity and culture separate from Spain, the culinary traditions underwent further evolution. Traditional dishes were reinvented using local ingredients, and regional specialties started to emerge.

1810

Mexican War of Independence

During the Mexican War of Independence, which began in 1810, Mexican cuisine started to transition further away from its Spanish influence. The war led to increased pride in and celebration of Mexican heritage, including its food. This gave rise to a greater emphasis on traditional Mexican ingredients and cooking methods. It was during this time that the foundation of authentic Mexican cuisine as we know it today began to take shape.

1810

Mexican War of Independence

The Mexican War of Independence, which began in 1810, played a crucial role in shaping Mexican cuisine. As a result of the war, Mexican people started embracing their indigenous roots, including their traditional food. This led to a resurgence of interest in authentic Mexican ingredients and cooking techniques, and a stronger emphasis on using local, flavorful ingredients such as avocados, cacao, and different varieties of chili peppers.

1810

Mexican War of Independence

The Mexican War of Independence from Spain, which began in 1810, had a significant impact on Mexican food. As the country fought for its independence, the culinary traditions of Mexico started to develop and evolve further. This period marked the shift towards using more locally available ingredients and the emergence of regional variations in Mexican cuisine.

1810

Mexican War of Independence

The Mexican War of Independence, which began in 1810, played a significant role in shaping Mexican cuisine. During this time, the country gained independence from Spain, leading to a resurgence of national pride and cultural identity. Traditional Mexican dishes became a symbol of resistance, and their popularity spread both within Mexico and internationally.

1880s

Tex-Mex Emerges

During the late 19th century, Mexican immigrants started moving to the United States, particularly to Texas. This migration resulted in the fusion of Mexican and American cultures, giving rise to what is known as Tex-Mex cuisine. Tex-Mex dishes blended traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients with American influences. The introduction of ingredients like beef, yellow cheese, and wheat flour tortillas marked a departure from the traditional Mexican cuisine.

1880s

Mexican Food in the United States

Mexican food started gaining popularity in the United States during the late 19th century. The spread of Mexican cuisine can be attributed to Mexican immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them. Mexican-inspired food stands and restaurants began to emerge, introducing Americans to flavors they had never experienced before.

1880s

Mexican-American Border Influence

The late 19th century saw significant migration from Mexico to the United States, particularly to border states such as Texas and California. Mexican immigrants brought their traditional cooking methods and ingredients, such as corn tortillas, beans, and chilies, which became an integral part of Mexican-American cuisine.

1880s

Introduction of Mexican Food to the US

Mexican food began to make its way to the United States in the late 19th century. Mexican immigrants, primarily from the northern states of Mexico, brought their culinary traditions with them. The first Mexican restaurants started appearing in cities like San Antonio, Los Angeles, and El Paso. The popularity of Mexican food grew steadily, especially in the Southwest, where it became a staple of the local cuisine.

1880s

Mexican Cuisine in the United States

During the late 19th century, Mexican immigrants began to migrate to the United States in search of better opportunities. They brought with them their culinary traditions, including the flavors and techniques of Mexican cuisine. Mexican food started to gain popularity in certain regions of the United States, particularly in the Southwest. This marked the beginning of the development of Mexican-American cuisine, which incorporated elements from both Mexican and American culinary traditions.

1880s

Chili Con Carne and Tex-Mex Influence

In the late 19th century, Mexican cuisine experienced another significant evolution with the rise of chili con carne and the influence of Tex-Mex cuisine. Chili con carne, a spicy stew made with meat and chili peppers, became a popular dish in both Mexico and the United States. This marked the beginning of Mexican cuisine's integration with Tex-Mex flavors and ingredients, creating a unique blend of Mexican and American culinary traditions.

1880s

Introduction of the Chili

The introduction of chili peppers to Mexican cuisine had a transformative effect in the 1880s. Chili peppers, native to the Americas, became widely used in Mexican cooking, adding a distinct flavor and spiciness to many dishes. The chili pepper soon became an integral ingredient, playing a central role in the creation of the diverse and flavor-rich Mexican gastronomy.

1960s

Mexican Food Goes Global

In the 1960s, Mexican cuisine gained international recognition and popularity. Mexican restaurants began spreading beyond Mexico and the United States, reaching Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world. This global expansion not only introduced people to traditional Mexican dishes but also gave rise to modern interpretations and adaptations of Mexican food. As a result, today, Mexican food is celebrated worldwide and has become an integral part of many diverse culinary landscapes.

20th Century

Rise of Tex-Mex Cuisine

In the 20th century, a new style of cuisine emerged known as Tex-Mex. This cuisine is a fusion of Mexican and American flavors and cooking techniques. It was heavily influenced by the Mexican-American communities in Texas and other southwestern states. Tex-Mex dishes like chili con carne, nachos, and burritos became popular across the United States, contributing to the overall popularity of Mexican food.

1980s

Global Popularity and Fusion Cuisine

During the 1980s, Mexican food gained international popularity, becoming one of the most recognized and beloved cuisines worldwide. This surge in popularity led to the fusion of Mexican flavors with cuisines from different cultures. Fusion restaurants emerged, combining Mexican ingredients with Asian, European, and African culinary traditions, creating innovative and diverse culinary experiences.

1910-1940

Mexican Food in the Era of Hollywood

During the first half of the 20th century, Mexican cuisine gained further exposure and popularity through the influence of Hollywood. Several Mexican restaurants in Los Angeles attracted celebrities, and Mexican food became trendy among the stars. The popularity of Mexican dishes like tacos and enchiladas continues to this day, largely thanks to Hollywood's role in promoting them.

1920s

Tex-Mex Cuisine

The term 'Tex-Mex' emerged in the 1920s to describe the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines in Texas. This regional adaptation incorporated ingredients such as yellow cheese, beef, wheat flour, and canned goods, reflecting the availability of ingredients and tastes that appealed to both Mexican and American palates. Tex-Mex dishes like chili con carne and nachos became popular across the United States.

1910

Mexican Revolution

The Mexican Revolution that began in 1910 brought about social and cultural changes in Mexico, including its culinary scene. The revolution sparked a renewed interest in indigenous Mexican culture and a revival of traditional cooking methods and ingredients. This period emphasized the importance of local, fresh produce and heritage recipes, further shaping the identity of Mexican food.

20th Century

Rise of Mexican Restaurants

In the early 20th century, Mexican restaurants began to emerge in the United States, popularizing Mexican cuisine beyond the Mexican-American community. The restaurants adapted traditional Mexican dishes to suit American tastes, leading to the creation of iconic dishes like nachos, burritos, and enchiladas.

21st Century

Global Recognition

Mexican cuisine has gained widespread recognition and popularity around the world in the 21st century. It is celebrated for its diverse flavors, vibrant colors, and use of fresh ingredients. Mexican restaurants can be found in countless cities worldwide, and dishes like tacos, guacamole, and salsa have become household names. The cultural impact of Mexican food extends far beyond just the culinary world, influencing art, music, and cultural festivals.

1970s

Global Popularity

The 1970s marked the era when Mexican food started to gain global popularity. The United States, in particular, played a significant role in spreading Mexican cuisine worldwide. With the rise of Tex-Mex cuisine and the opening of Mexican restaurants, dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole became beloved and accessible to people around the globe, further solidifying the status of Mexican food in the culinary world.

1970s

Tex-Mex Cuisine

In the 1970s, Tex-Mex cuisine started to emerge as a distinct style of Mexican-inspired food. Tex-Mex incorporates elements of traditional Mexican cooking with Americanized ingredients and flavors. Famous dishes like nachos and fajitas are prime examples of this fusion. Tex-Mex cuisine gained nationwide popularity and became a staple in American households.

1970s

Mexican Food Boom

The 1970s marked a significant boom in Mexican food's popularity globally. Mexican cuisine gained recognition as a vibrant and diverse culinary tradition, celebrated for its bold flavors and unique ingredients like chili peppers, cacao, and avocados. Mexican restaurants expanded globally, allowing people from different cultures to enjoy the vibrant and authentic tastes of Mexico.

1970s

Mexican Food Goes Global

During the 1970s, Mexican food gained international recognition and popularity. It spread to Europe, Asia, and other parts of the world, with people embracing the vibrant flavors, colorful presentation, and diverse range of dishes. Mexican cuisine became synonymous with festive celebrations and a cultural symbol of Mexico.

Present Day

Continued Innovation and Appreciation

Today, Mexican food continues to evolve and diversify, while still honoring its rich history and traditions. Mexican cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, colorful presentation, and wide variety of dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, and salsa. It has become an integral part of global culinary culture, enjoyed by people of all backgrounds and ethnicities.

21st Century

Global Recognition of Mexican Food

Mexican food has gained global recognition and appreciation in the 21st century. It is now celebrated for its vibrant flavors, diverse ingredients, and rich culinary heritage. Mexican cuisine, including street food like tacos and traditional dishes like mole, has become a beloved part of the international culinary scene, earning UNESCO's designation as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.

Did you know?

Did you know that Mexican cuisine is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity? It's not just the flavors that make Mexican food special, but also the traditions, techniques, and rituals that have been passed down through generations.