Last Updated on October 25, 2023 by Food Articles
It’s the weekend, and you’re deciding what to eat with your family. Why not explore something new and exciting? Trying different cuisines not only broadens your palate but also exposes you to diverse cultures and their culinary traditions. Living in Houston, Texas, means you’re immersed in a vibrant food scene featuring a variety of cuisines and fusion options.
Mexican cuisine, including the Tex-Mex fusion, is highly popular in Texas. If you enjoy rich, flavorful dishes that are also nutritious, Mexican food is an excellent choice. It combines various food groups and natural, mood-boosting nutrients that release endorphins, making you feel happy.
Still not convinced? Here are a few reasons to consider trying Mexican food with your family:
1. Unique flavors
Mexican cuisine is celebrated for its bold, spicy, and vibrant flavors, as well as its colorful presentation, all crafted using fresh ingredients. With a wide range of savory, spicy, and sweet options, it caters to diverse tastes.
Moreover, it accommodates various dietary preferences, being both vegan-friendly and offering abundant choices for meat enthusiasts.
2. Great for a family outing
Exploring a Mexican restaurant is a delightful way to bond with your family. The vibrant and festive ambiance encourages lively, enjoyable moments together. The communal dining experience makes it an ideal setting for families to come together, share a meal, and forge lasting memories.
Mexican cuisine also offers an array of kid-friendly choices, including corn dogs, nachos, and tacos, making it a great option for a family outing. Furthermore, the extensive menu ensures that there’s something to please every member of your family, making it a fantastic choice for a family outing. Try authentic Mexican cuisine at Blue Agave Cantina to savor new flavors, break from the routine, and create cherished family memories.
3. Healthy choices
Mexican cuisine is a healthy option, primarily based on corn, beans, tomatoes, and squash, and enriched with fresh produce and flavorful spices. Corn, a staple crop, provides whole grains and essential nutrients such as carbs, fiber, and vitamin B3. The inclusion of beans adds protein and iron, while a variety of vegetables and fresh fruits make it a well-rounded choice for nutritious eating.
4. Cultural experience
Dining at a Mexican restaurant offers a chance for new and enjoyable cultural experiences. In addition to expanding your culinary horizons, you’ll immerse yourself in the ambiance, music, and decor that often showcase their vibrant cultural heritage. These establishments frequently host themed celebrations and live performances that celebrate this heritage, providing a wonderful opportunity to appreciate and enjoy other cultures.
5. Cooking together as a family
Cooking together as a family is a wonderful way to create lasting memories, foster communication, and develop teamwork. Exploring a new cuisine can add an educational and enjoyable aspect to your time together, while also instilling an appreciation for different cultures and their culinary traditions in kids. Here are some simple recipes for a fun family night:
Chili-Stuffed Poblano Peppers:
This quick and easy recipe requires minimal preparation, and poblano peppers, milder than jalapenos, are kid-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili without beans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1-1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 4 large poblano peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
Preheat your broiler. In a large pan, cook the turkey over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink, draining any excess liquid. Add the chili and salt, mixing well. Add half a cup of cheese, tomatoes, and green onions.
Cut the poblano peppers in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and place them on a foil-lined baking pan, cut side down. Brush with oil and broil until the skin blisters. Turn the peppers, fill them with the turkey mixture, sprinkle the remaining cheese, and broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
Shrimp Tostadas with Avocado Salsa:
A refreshing recipe for a warm summer night, and you can substitute shrimp with chicken or beef mince.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3 teaspoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons blackened seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 small navel orange, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
- 6 tostada shells
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 pound uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of chopped avocado, 1 teaspoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning, cumin, and water. Mash 3/4 cups of beans into the mixture with a fork and then add the remaining whole beans. Set aside.
For the salsa, combine the chopped orange, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and the remaining avocado and lime juice in a small bowl, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
On an ungreased baking sheet, place the tostada shells, spread the bean mixture on them, and sprinkle with cheese. Bake until heated and the cheese melts.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and the remaining 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning, cooking and stirring until the shrimp turns pink. Arrange the shrimp over the tostada shells and serve with salsa. Top with crema if desired.
The Last Word
The joy of Mexican cuisine goes beyond just the food itself; it’s about coming together, sharing stories, and making lasting memories. Whether you’re having a taco night at home with an array of colorful toppings or heading to your favorite local Mexican joint, you’re in for a fantastic time. The lively and festive atmosphere, combined with the mouthwatering dishes, will create a fun and unforgettable family experience.
So, don’t miss out on this opportunity to bond with your loved ones over a plate of sizzling fajitas or indulge in a warm and cheesy quesadilla. In the world of Mexican cuisine, every meal is a celebration.
Go ahead, spice up your weekend with some Mexican flair and make it unforgettable!
