Mexican food is gaining popularity all around the world. However, not everyone knows its history. In this post, we offer a brief history of Mexican cuisine focusing on three crucial moments that shaped Mexican cuisine as we know it.
Pre-Columbian Civilizations
Before the arrival of the European conquistadores, the territory of today’s Mexico was inhabited by ancient civilizations (such as the Aztecs, the Olmecs, the Maya, and the Wixarica) that boasted rich culinary traditions. The prehispanic names make it easy to spot the ingredients and utensils that date back to this period:
- Chipotle
- Molcajete
- Chilaquiles
- Tomate
- Jitomate
- Tamal
- Comal
Spanish Influence
The Spanish colonization is a watershed moment in the history of Mexico, and food was no exception. The conquistadores brought with them new ingredients and cooking methods. It was a complex process where European ingredients were adapted to the local tastes and some ancient culinary customs fell into disuse. Mexican cuisine was born. Some of the ingredients that date back to this period include:
- Rice
- Pork
- Meat
- Barley
- Cilantro
- Carrots
- Cinnamon
The Reign of Maximilian I
Not everyone knows this, but Mexico had an emperor at one point: Maximilian of Habsburg. While in many ways Maximilian is a tragic figure, his brief rule (1864-1867) made a profound impact on Mexican culture. Being a European nobleman, Maximilian made it a point to offer sumptuous banquets with the best food from Italy, France, and Austria. Some of these delicacies were adopted by Mexicans and became part of the local tradition.
More Interesting Facts About Mexican Food
If you are hungry for more stories and facts about Mexican food, then check out these previous posts:
- Is chicken salad healthy
- 5 Utensils you need to make authentic Mexican food
- 5 Ideas for a Mexican-style Thanksgiving menu
- Dia de Muertos and food: some interesting facts
Enjoy Delicious Chicken Salad at El Pollo Norteño!
Looking for scrumptious chicken salad in Anaheim, Santa Ana, or Garden Grove? Then El Pollo Norteño is the place to go.
Visit today any of our four locations, 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!