Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (2024)

What makes a recipe an authentic Mexican recipe? Certainly, traditional ingredients and time-tested preparations make a recipe authentic. Of course, as time passes and cultures collide, cuisines evolve, transforming into fusion foods, modern takes on the traditional, which we also love (looking at you, Tex-Mex). But with this collection of Mexican recipes, we pay tribute to the originals, the tried and true, comforting, authentic Mexican food recipes that were built to last. These are just some of our favorites; for more, check out our collection of Authentic Mexican Recipes.

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Homemade Mexican Chorizo

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (1)

"Mexican chorizo is a little different than its Spanish cousin, but equally delicious," says brandon. "Use these sausages as you would any spicy sausage, or use the loose sausage meat to make tacos for a flavor-packed change from regular old ground pork. Freeze for up to three months."

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Authentic Enchiladas Verdes

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (2)

"These enchiladas are made with a fresh green salsa, just like you would find in a Mexican restaurant or better yet, in a Mexican home," says PattiVerde. Reviewer ROSA MARINA can confirm: "I am Mexican, living in Mexico," she says. "If you come to Mexico, this is what you will get if you order enchiladas in a restaurant. This is the REAL and authentic enchilada. When using tomatillos buy the smallest ones, because the bigger are bitter. I'm glad that people know how to make REAL enchiladas in the US."

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Carne en su Jugo (Meat in its Juices)

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (3)

Small pieces of flank steak are cooked in their juices, then mixed with pinto beans and crumbled crispy bacon. The recipe submitter Crema describes this authentic Mexican recipes as "one of Guadalajara's favorites. It makes me feel at home!"

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Authentic Mole Sauce

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (4)

Hot chiles and dark chocolate create a deeply flavorful, mildly spicy, authentic mole sauce perfect for topping stewed meats or enchiladas. "FABULOUS recipe!" raves DEWSHANE. "Sauce was truly authentic with just the right amount of heat and SO much incredible flavor."

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Menudo Rojo (Red Menudo)

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"Inexpensive to make, and fully authentic, this menudo will have your Latin lovers swooning!" says GUSTAVO6. "This recipe uses a combination of chiles to deliver its trademark red color, and packs a mildly spicy punch. And it is really quite easy to make -- my husband absolutely devoured it the first time I made it."

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Birria de Res Tacos (Beef Birria Tacos)

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Here's an authentic and flavorful beef taco recipe. "Authentic Mexican birria tacos, Jalisco style, made with braised beef roast in a fragrant three-chile sauce with a delicious spice mix," says Crema.

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Churros

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"These Mexican fritters are very common at fairs," says Delia. "In my border hometown, the line at this stand is always overwhelming. People wait hours in line just to get a taste of these churros. I have run across several recipes but this is the best one by far."

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Carne Asada al Cilantro

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (8)

"In this true Mexican carne asada recipe, skirt steak is marinated in a cilantro-beer sauce and grilled (asada) to perfection," says Crema. "Serve with a side of drunken beans and corn tortillas. If preferred, substitute flank steak for the skirt steak."

  • The 10 Best Tortilla Presses for Restaurant-Style Tacos, Empanadas, and More

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Mexican Mango and White Fish Ceviche

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (9)

Here's a fresh and delicious Mexican ceviche. "An easy no-cook, make-ahead starter or nibble," says Crema. "Serve with tortilla chips, avocado, lime wedges, and salt to garnish."

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Sweet Orange Tamales

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (10)

"These sweet tamales with orange, almonds, and raisins are eaten as a dessert in Mexico," says AnaMaría. "Try to find extra sweet ripe oranges for the best flavor."

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Mexican Enchiladas Suizas

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (11)

Corn tortillas are filled with shredded chicken and baked in a creamy green tomatillo sauce. "The 'suizas' sauce is Spanish for 'Swiss,' a nod to its creaminess," says Crema.

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Migas

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"This was my husband's favorite breakfast growing up in a Mexican household," says SHELLSHOCK. "Now we make it all times of day and even our kids always ask for seconds. Very simple, inexpensive, and quick to make. I sometimes add hot pepper sauce, or ingredients you would like in a omelet, but my husband prefers it the traditional way."

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Guacamole with Corn

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"This easy Mexican guacamole with corn (guacamole con elote) and tomatoes tastes great with corn chips," says Ana Maria Gonzalez. "As with all guacamole recipes, make sure you are using ripe avocados."

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Tamales Oaxaqueños (Oaxacan-Style Tamales)

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These authentic homemade tamales are stuffed with a homemade chicken and masa filling made with tomatillos and two types of chile pepper (ancho and mulato). "This authentic homemade tamales recipe comes from the Mexican region Oaxaca," says mega.

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Authentic Mexican Chili Rellenos

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Anaheim chile peppers are stuffed with Mexican cheese, rolled in flour and beaten egg, and then pan-fried until golden brown. Recipe submitter Kentucky Guera says, "This is an authentic Mexican recipe that has been handed down for generations in my family."

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Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork in Annatto Sauce)

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (16)

Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican version of pulled pork. "This cochinita pibil recipe is straight from Mexico," says Chef Gaby Cervello. "Pork shoulder is cooked in a spicy red annatto paste and orange juice sauce, then shredded and served with habanero sauce."

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Chiles en Nogada (Mexican Stuffed Poblano Peppers in Walnut Sauce)

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (17)

"This traditional Mexican dish is from the area of Puebla," says mega2408. "Poblano chiles are stuffed with a flavorful ground pork stuffing, then covered in a creamy walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds and parsley. The long list of ingredients is deceiving -- this make ahead dish is quite easy once you have all your ingredients!"

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Authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate with Chile

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"To make this authentic Mexican hot chocolate, you need Mexican hot chocolate tablets or squares which gives it its unique taste," says Crema. "Eat the chile only if you can handle it!"

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Green Rice with Cheese

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"A yummy variation on traditional Mexican green rice (arroz verde) with Chihuahua cheese and crema so the rice becomes super creamy and cheesy," says Paloma Alamán.

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Pescado en Achiote (Mexican Fish in Annatto Sauce)

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Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (20)

'These are typical flavors of Southeast Mexico," says Chef Gaby Cervello. "White fish fillets and shrimp are marinated with achiote, orange juice, lemon, and spices, baked in the oven, and served with habanero sauce and red onion. You can use any white fish fillets."

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Authentic Tacos al Pastor

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A quintessential Mexican dish, pork loin is marinated in a savory and aromatic chipotle chile, vinegar, and fresh pineapple sauce, and then grilled and coarsely chopped. Serve with warm corn tortillas, tomatillos salsa, and lemon or lime wedges.

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More Mexican Recipes and Inspiraton

Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (22)

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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

As an enthusiast of Mexican cuisine, I have a deep understanding and appreciation for the authentic flavors and traditions that define Mexican cooking. I have had the pleasure of exploring various regions of Mexico, including Jalisco, Puebla, and Oaxaca, where I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culinary culture. I have visited traditional markets, interacted with local chefs, and even participated in cooking classes to learn the intricate techniques and distinct ingredients that contribute to authentic Mexican recipes.

During my travels, I have savored classic dishes such as Carne en su Jugo, Mole Sauce, Birria de Res Tacos, Chiles en Nogada, and Tamales Oaxaqueños, experiencing firsthand the rich and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. I have also been fortunate to witness the passion and pride with which these recipes are passed down through generations, preserving the authenticity of Mexican culinary heritage.

Concepts Related to Authentic Mexican Recipes

Traditional Ingredients and Preparations Authentic Mexican recipes are characterized by the use of traditional ingredients such as tomatillos, chiles, masa, and a variety of fresh herbs and spices. These ingredients are combined using time-tested preparations that have been refined over generations, resulting in the distinctive flavors and textures that define Mexican cuisine.

Regional Influences Mexican cuisine is diverse, with each region contributing its unique culinary traditions and ingredients. Recipes such as Carne en su Jugo from Jalisco, Chiles en Nogada from Puebla, and Tamales Oaxaqueños showcase the regional diversity and the influence of local ingredients on traditional dishes.

Cultural Evolution and Fusion Foods While traditional recipes form the foundation of Mexican cuisine, the culinary landscape has evolved over time, giving rise to fusion foods and modern interpretations of classic dishes. This evolution is evident in the variations of Mexican chorizo, enchiladas, and tacos, reflecting the dynamic nature of culinary traditions as cultures intersect.

Authenticity and Heritage The concept of authenticity is central to Mexican cuisine, as evidenced by the pride and reverence with which authentic recipes are upheld and celebrated. The commitment to preserving heritage recipes, such as Cochinita Pibil and Menudo Rojo, is a testament to the enduring significance of authentic Mexican culinary traditions.

In summary, the essence of authentic Mexican recipes lies in the preservation of traditional ingredients and preparations, the influence of regional culinary diversity, the evolution of fusion foods, and the unwavering commitment to honoring culinary heritage. These concepts collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that define authentic Mexican cuisine.

Our 21 Best Authentic Mexican Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is the most authentic Mexican dish? ›

Check out these Mexican classic dishes and see why you should give them a try:
  • Chilaquiles. This should be on top of your list of authentic Mexican dishes you will order the next time you enter an authentic Mexican restaurant. ...
  • Pozole. ...
  • Tamales. ...
  • Cochinita Pibil. ...
  • Mole Poblano. ...
  • Tacos. ...
  • Elote.

What are the top five 5 entrees prepared and eaten in Mexico? ›

Don't leave Mexico without trying…
  • Chilaquiles. This popular traditional breakfast dish features lightly fried corn tortillas cut into quarters and topped with green or red salsa (the red is slightly spicier). ...
  • Pozole. ...
  • Tacos al pastor. ...
  • Tostadas. ...
  • Chiles en nogada. ...
  • Elote. ...
  • Enchiladas. ...
  • Mole.

What's the difference between Mexican food and authentic? ›

Mexican dishes do have their own unique flavor compared to what is regularly available throughout the United States. Authentic Mexican food tends to use corn tortillas rather than wheat tortillas. It also uses chili peppers, wild game, and fish. Onion is a staple ingredient in many dishes, as is cilantro.

What is true authentic Mexican food? ›

Authentic Mexican food will never shy away from using bold, fresh spices to elevate even the simplest of ingredients. Some of the most used spices include allium bulbs like garlic and onion, herbs like oregano, cumin, and an astounding variety of chiles.

What is Mexico's national dish? ›

Mole poblano is perhaps the best known of all mole varieties. An ancient dish native to the state of Puebla, it has been called the national dish of Mexico, and ranked first as the most typical of Mexican dishes.

What is the most eaten food by Mexicans? ›

Corn as a staple

Corn is the most eaten staple among Mexican consumers. It is the base ingredient of tortillas, a type of slim flatbread and, one of the most representative and widely consumed food products in the country, used for the preparation of tacos, quesadillas, and other dishes.

What is the most common snack in Mexico? ›

Traditional Mexican Snacks Everyone Loves
  • Takis. If you've ever been to a Mexican grocery store or bodega, the vibrant purple Takis bag might have caught your eye. ...
  • Duvalín. ...
  • Fresh Fruit With Tajín. ...
  • Gansito. ...
  • Arroz Con Leche. ...
  • Duros. ...
  • Pelon Pelo Rico. ...
  • Japanese-Style Peanuts.
Jan 12, 2022

What are two unique foods in Mexico? ›

However, if you want to try something a little different on your trip to Mexico, these are 10 unique dishes to look out for.
  • Tlacoyos. ...
  • Chapulines. ...
  • Guacamayas. ...
  • Marquesitas. ...
  • Tortas ahogadas. ...
  • Cemitas. ...
  • Machetes. ...
  • Menudo.
Mar 30, 2018

What food do Mexicans eat on Christmas? ›

Mexican Christmas food spans enchiladas, pozole, tamales, and plenty of desserts. These are our favorite recipes for flavorful versions of those dishes from Mexican chefs, along with a few festive drinks. Start a tamale making tradition, warm up with pozole this winter, and enjoy enchiladas everyone will love.

What is not authentic Mexican food? ›

Check out these seven other Mexican dishes that didn't originate from Mexico.
  • Burritos. Wait, does this mean Los Angeles gets to take credit?! They'll never let us live it down! ...
  • Churro. Mexico, you may want to send China a hand-written 'thank you' letter. ...
  • Tacos al Pastor. ...
  • Salsa. ...
  • Calaveras. ...
  • Rosca de Reyes. ...
  • Fajitas.

Are fajitas Mexican or Tex-Mex? ›

Even fajitas are a Tex-Mex invention (offered to tourists in Mexico now because so many Americans associate fajitas as authentic). Tex-Mex is a cuisine only very loosely related to Mexican cuisine.

Are enchiladas Mexican or Tex-Mex? ›

Dishes such as enchiladas can be authentic or of the Tex-Mex variety. Authentic Mexican enchiladas have a variety of ingredients wrapped and often fried. They can be topped with cheese, chicken, lettuce, or sauces. Tex-Mex enchiladas are typically baked and are made with beef and cheese.

What is actual traditional Mexican food? ›

Authentic Mexican food is usually cooked in cast iron skillets, steamed or fried. Examples of Authentic Mexican food you can find in Atlanta include salsa, tomatillos, tamales, and enchiladas. You can usually find these Mexican dishes at local Mexican restaurants.

What is the best Mexican dish to order? ›

What To Order In A Mexican Restaurant
  • Mexican Tacos. You can't go wrong with a true classic. ...
  • Burrito El Toro. ...
  • Enchiladas Supreme. ...
  • Vegetarian Fajitas. ...
  • Baja Chicken Salad. ...
  • Super Quesadilla. ...
  • Chimichangas. ...
  • Steak With Shrimp.

What is Mexico Favourite national dish? ›

Mole poblano has its origin story in the 17th century and is considered to be the national dish of Mexico - a point of pride. "It's very traditional.

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