Leave it to the Americans to use a symbolic victory of the Mexican army over the French in 1861 as an excuse to eat and drink excessively every year. It's just what we do. Just because in Mexico, only the region where the battle took place (Puebla) recognizes the occasion by serving up authentic dishes and cultural history doesn't mean we can't party like it's tequila-soaked 1999 every year. 'Merica.
The point is, if we're going to be cheesy we might as well be cheesy. Some research revealed that the most traditional and historically relevant dish for the occasion is Chiles en Nogada. These look so amazing! Our Pinterest-loving hearts should swoon over how the dish was made to incorporate the colors of the Mexican flag.
Image: Smithsonian.com
We can almost taste the milk-based, creamy walnut sauce draping over that stuffed, roasted poblano pepper. But let's be real. There are like two dozen ingredients and unless you are from the Mexican region of Puebla and you're a grandma, you're better off Yelp'ing an authentic Mexican restaurant that does it justice. Not that there's anything wrong with that.
Let's just keep it real by recreating the cheesy and creamy favorites. There's no need to apologize for your undying love for both authentic Mexican and Americanized dishes. It's all so delicious! Think you are too sophisticated to observe a pseudo-borrowed-holiday? Think again. May 5th is a Saturday this year. Resisting the urge to get together and get down on a big old pile of nachos and a bucket of Coronas is futile.
Here are five sorta Mexican sorta American, but less-expected recipes to try out this Cinco de Mayo. Ole! Or something.
1. Tex Mex Hot Dogs
Get the full recipe on the Country Cleaver blog. Photo by blog and cookbook author Megan Keno.
2. Pina Colada Dip
Ha, you thought this list would be super boring. Try dipping fruit into this sour cream based treat. Get the full recipe at Darigold.com.
3. Beef Chalupas
Meaty fried chalupas sprinkled with Queso Fresco actually make the cut of notable dishes from the Puebla region. Get this awesome recipe at hispanickitchen.com.
4. Queso Fundido with Roasted Poblano Vinaigrette
It wouldn't be a party without the queso. Poblanos are a thing in Puebla and the world of Iron Chef Bobby Flay. And all around it just works. Get the queso recipe at foodnetwork.com.
5. Classic Tres Leches Cake
This cake is made with milk of three kinds. Of course it makes our festive party list! Get this recipe at tasteofhome.com.