Mexican recipes

Mexican dishes are made up of a range of beautiful, bold ingredients that celebrate flavour. However, there are a few common ingredients that crop up across a range of Mexican recipe ideas.

Beans: Beans are a rich part of Mexican culture and its history and are a staple of Mexican dinner recipes. Perfect to pair with a range of spices, beans can be utilised in many recipes to add interesting textures that can compliment or replace meats.

Recipes such as Chipotle Black Bean Tacos celebrate beans in the most Mexican way.

Rice: Another key staple of Mexican recipes for a dinner party or everyday, rice was brought over to Mexican lands during the Spanish invasion and is now a key element to dishes. Acting as a blank canvas to the bold flavours of Mexico, it's no wonder a range of recipes bring rice to life.

1. It’s ancient. Guacamole was first eaten by the Aztecs as early as half a century ago.
2. Lime is essential. Without the lime, the avocado will turn brown when exposed to oxygen.
3. Back in the early 20th century, avocados were commonly called “alligator pears.” It’s easy to see why.
4. Avocados contain more potassium than bananas. So stock up on the guac the next time you cook a Mexican recipe for a deliciously balanced meal.
5. Don’t feed it to your dogs. Or, more accurately, don’t let your furry friends get the skin or pit of the avocado. These parts of the fruit are known to be harmful to cats and dogs.
6. You need perfectly ripe avocados. Overripe avocados will likely be discoloured on the inside. To avoid overripe avocados, make sure the small brown stem is still intact as it acts as a seal, preventing oxidation on the inside.
7. Fresh ingredients are best. Fresh chili, onion, garlic and lime will elevate the flavours of this Mexican side, and make for a dip far tastier than any store-bought alternative.