The Wonderful Food of Mexico! Food is probably the most important element of
Mexican culture. Much of the daily routine and tradition in Mexico revolves
around the ritual of preparing and eating food. In history, women made their way
to the local markets to fill their basket with vegetables, fruits, meat, and
fish. Once collecting them the women would return home to begin grinding the
corn and flour to make fresh tortillas for the afternoon meal. Mexican food is
rich in color and flavor. The richness of their cuisine comes from their concern
for the sensory experience of eating. It is often said that “cuisine is
culture”, and to understand the development of Mexican cuisine it is important
to know about the history of Mexico. In the pre-Colombian time corn was greatly
used to make tortillas, tamales, or also made into flour. The diet of corn was
placed with meats, vegetables, and many flavorful spices. However the country’s
cuisine changed dramatically with influences brought by the Spanish. They
brought rice, olives, wines, spices from India, and beef along with many others.
The traditional food was combined with the spanish influence. This was the
result of the blending of the two different heritages. In the 19th century,
Mexican women played a important role in the home. To be a good woman in Mexico
is to have extensive knowledge and great skills in the culinary arts. A
testament to them, has been a demand for their wonderful dishes around the
world. Mexicans are very proud of their cuisine. It gives them a sense of unity
and identity everywhere in the world.
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