Mexican spices are used in many dishes found in Mexico. Some
are spices you kind find anywhere, such as Garlic. Others give unique flavors.
Epazote is a spice that is not as common. It is also known as "Mexican
tea". It is used to flavor beans and other foods, but should be used
sparingly because it can be poisonous in large amounts. Even though it is
strong, it is said to be good for intestinal discomfort.
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Chile powder is a popular spice in Mexican foods. It is used
to add flavor to vegetables, and meats. Another Chile powder that is popular is
Chipotle. It is made from Jalapenos that have been dried and smoked. The flavor
is one of a kind and goes well with many dishes. It is gaining popularity
outside of Mexico. One other type of chile pepper is Ancho. It is different
from the other peppers because it has a sweet flavor similar to dried fruit.
Common spices used in Mexico are Cumin, and Oregano. Mexican
dishes that include tomatoes are perfect with oregano. It gives the dish an
earthy flavor. Cumin gives Mexican dishes a taste that cannot be matched. Cumin
takes three to four months of a long summer to grow. Cumin is a dry seed from
the herb Cuminum Cyminum which is a member of the parsley family. This spice is
the key component in curry power and chili powder. Cumin can also be boiled and
served as a tea which is called "cumin cider". Cumin is a spice that
has been used for many centuries and will continue to be used by the people of
Mexico.
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Recado rojo is a special blend of spices that are from
Mexico. It was used as long ago as the Mayans. It the spice mixture is red
because of the added annatto seeds, which give food a red look to them when
added. The blend contains spices such as cinnamon, clove, cumin, oregano
garlic, and more. This blend is associated Mexican foods found in the Yucatan.
It would be very easy to make this from your own home.
Achiote is the shrub that the annatto seeds come from which
is added to the recado rojo mixture. This shrub is grown in Southeast Asia and
was introduced to the Spanish in the 17th century. It is consider an inedible
fruit that is used for its seeds. Long ago American Indians used the seeds to
make body paints. Parts of the shrub can be used in medical remedies for health
problems such as headaches and burns.
If you want to try these spices from your home, they are
available at major grocery stores. You can even make your own blend of Mexican
spices. Gather a few of the mentioned spices in this article, along with
paprika and salt, and blend them together for a sensational burst of flavor.
This is a great blend in chili. It can be added to foods that are baked,
broiled and barbequed. It is perfect on chicken and pork. It is an excellent
addition for your next barbeque. Let the grilling begin!
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