A FEW OF THE 'BASICS'

Want to know some of the basic elements of Mexican Cuisine? 

Tortillas:  'Tor tea yahs'  The double LL in Spanish is pronounced as "Yah". Tortillas are a flat bread made of corn or wheat flour. Considered the national bread of Mexico, and widely used through out the world. The tortilla dates as far back in time as records have been kept. There is almost no limitation except your imagination in their use in cooking.  As we will prove in our recipes provided for your pleasure.

Tortilla Chips and Strips:  Great for nachos, dipping, croutons on salads and for adding to soups!

Mexican Sloppy Beans:  A pot of beans is something that you will often find cooking on the back burner of a Mexican household. Beans are high in fibre and low in fat and are a very healthy food.  It's the processing and added fat that you get when buying a can of refried beans, that isn't healthy.  Try making your own 'refried' beans without the fat!

Tacos:  Are traditionally a corn tortilla that is rolled or folded and stuffed with various fillings.  They are great warmed in a fry pan or on the grill with a little oil, or wrapped in a moist towel and warmed in the microwave.

Enchiladas:   'in cha la das' Are traditionally corn tortillas that are dipped in hot oil or a heated sauce to soften, then filled with various fillings, rolled, topped with cheese and/or sauce and baked in the oven.

Tostadas:   'toast a dos' A corn tortilla which has been fried in oil or baked until crisp and golden brown. They can be prepared a day ahead and crisped in the oven just before using. These flat 'tortilla plates' are then layered with a variety of meats, beans, vegetables, salad and cheese.

Burritos:   'bur ree tos' A flour tortilla, warmed and traditionally filled with beans and cheese, but not any more!  You will see in our recipe book unlimited ways to make these into gourmet creations, for breakfast, lunch, entrees, or a main meal.

Quesadillas:  'Kay saa  ee yahs' A Mexican toasted cheese sandwich.  Simply place grated cheese on one side of a Flour or Corn Tortilla, fold over and heat in a dry or oiled fry pan, or Sandwich press.  A little butter or oil can be added for a more golden crispness.  But, the easiest way is to warm them in the microwave just until the cheese melts.  You will find in the recipe section of our web site, that there are numerous, interesting and delicious ways to make these tasty little morsels.  

Guacamole: 'gua ka mow lay'  Avacado that is mashed, with seasoning added. A great starter with tortilla chips, fantastic as a side dish, a dressing on shredded lettuce or with just about anything.

Mexican Rice: (Arroz a la Mexicana): A rice cooked in broth, tomatoes, onions and garlic a Mexican diet staple.