Introduction to Mexican Christmas Traditions
The Christmas season in Mexico is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and delicious food. Mexican Christmas traditions are a blend of indigenous and European customs, and one of the main ways these traditions are expressed is through the food that is consumed during this time of year. From sweet and savory dishes to warm and comforting drinks, Mexican cuisine during Christmas is a feast for the senses.
Tamales: The Staple of Mexican Christmas
Tamales are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and during Christmas, they are a must-have on the dinner table. Tamales are made by spreading a corn-based dough on a corn husk, then filling it with a variety of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, cheese, and even fruit. The husk is then rolled up and steamed. Tamales are often served with salsa and a side of beans and rice. In some regions, tamales are even used as a Christmas gift to exchange with friends and family.
Bacalao: A Seafood Tradition
Bacalao, or salted codfish, is a popular Christmas dish in Mexico. The dish is made by soaking the codfish in water until it becomes soft, then cooking it with tomatoes, onions, garlic, potatoes, olives, and capers. The result is a savory and flavorful dish that is perfect for the holidays. Bacalao is often served with rice or mashed potatoes and is enjoyed throughout the country.
Ponche: A Warm and Sweet Beverage
Ponche, a warm and sweet beverage, is a staple of Mexican Christmas traditions. The drink is made by boiling fruits such as apples, guavas, pears, and tejocotes (a small, sweet fruit native to Mexico) with cinnamon, sugar, and water. Ponche is often served with a shot of rum or brandy and is perfect for warming up on a chilly winter night.
Rompope: The Mexican Eggnog
Rompope is a Mexican version of eggnog that is popular during Christmas. The drink is made with milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract and is often spiked with rum or brandy. Rompope is typically served cold and is a rich and creamy treat that is perfect for sipping after a big Christmas dinner.
Ensalada de Nochebuena: A Tropical Salad
Ensalada de Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve Salad, is a tropical salad that is popular in Mexico during the holidays. The salad is made with a variety of fruits such as pineapple, jicama, and oranges, as well as beets and lettuce. The salad is then dressed with a sweet and tangy dressing made from lime juice, sugar, and olive oil.
Rosca de Reyes: The King’s Cake
Rosca de Reyes, or the King’s Cake, is a sweet bread that is often consumed on January 6th, which is the day of the Epiphany in Mexico. The bread is shaped like a wreath and is decorated with candied fruit to represent the jewels on a crown. Inside the bread, there are small figurines of baby Jesus. The person who finds the baby Jesus in their slice of bread is responsible for hosting a party on February 2nd, which is Candlemas Day.
Champurrado: A Thick and Chocolatey Drink
Champurrado is a thick and chocolatey drink that is popular in Mexico during the holidays. The drink is made by mixing corn flour, chocolate, cinnamon, and sugar with hot water or milk. Champurrado is often served with tamales and is perfect for a cozy night in.
Buñuelos: Sweet and Crunchy Treats
Buñuelos are sweet and crunchy treats that are often consumed during Christmas in Mexico. Buñuelos are made by frying dough in hot oil until they become crispy and golden brown. The dough is then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar and is often served with a syrup made from piloncillo (unrefined brown sugar) and anise.
Pierna de Cerdo: Roasted Pork Leg
Pierna de Cerdo, or roasted pork leg, is a popular Christmas dish in Mexico. The dish is made by marinating a pork leg in a mixture of spices such as garlic, oregano, and cumin, then roasting it in the oven until it is tender and juicy. Pierna de Cerdo is often served with salsa and a side of beans and rice.
Sopa de Lima: A Yucatecan Soup
Sopa de Lima is a traditional soup from the Yucatan region of Mexico that is often served during Christmas. The soup is made with chicken broth, lime juice, shredded chicken, and crispy tortilla strips. The soup is flavorful and refreshing and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner during the holidays.
Atole: A Hearty and Warming Beverage
Atole is a hearty and warming beverage that is popular in Mexico during the winter months. The drink is made by mixing masa (corn dough) with water or milk and is often flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, or chocolate. Atole is typically served hot and is perfect for warming up on a cold winter morning.
