Every Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) Mexicans commemorate the victory of their small army over the French empire in 1862. However, in the United States this date has become a celebration of Mexican-American heritage. Here are four traditional Mexican dishes to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in flavorful fashion.
Grilled Chicken
Grilled meat is an important part of Mexican culture, particularly in the northern states. Add to that the fact that at El Pollo Norteño we grill our chicken over real Mesquite charcoal, a tree deeply embedded in the history of Mexico, and you have the perfect way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
Tacos
It doesn’t get more Mexican than tacos. If you wanted, you could tell the history of Mexico through its many tacos—that would certainly be a delicious journey! From the Arab influences of tacos al pastor to the crispy/juicy combination of carnitas, tacos are a delicious meal and an interesting history lesson, all rolled into one.
Chilaquiles
In Mexico, chilaquiles are synonymous with breakfast. Whether you prefer your chilaquiles crunchy or soft, this dish made with fried tortilla chips simmered in a spicy sauce is guaranteed to get your day off to a great start.
Birria
Birria is a great example of the potential of traditional Mexican cuisine. Originally made with goat meat and prepared following a complex procedure, birria doesn’t look like a great candidate for internet virality. And yet, with some adjustments, this traditional dish from Jalisco took the United States street food scene by storm and became an internet sensation.
Learn More About Mexican Food
We love all the curious facts that surround authentic Mexican food. If you are hungry for more stories, then check out these previous posts:
- Why are refried beans called like that?
- Why Are chili peppers so important in Mexican cuisine
- Who invented guacamole?
- Are chilaquiles supposed to be crunchy?
- We answer four common questions about nachos
Enjoy Authentic Mexican Food at El Pollo Norteño
If what you want is Authentic Mexican food in Anaheim, California, El Pollo Norteño is the place to go.
Visit today any of our four locations (Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Garden Grove), order online, get in touch through Facebook, or call 866-MI-POLLO to enjoy our authentic Mexican dishes: amazing chicken grilled to perfection over real Mesquite charcoal, caldo de pollo, flan, carnitas, carne asada, and more!