Curious Facts

Exotic ingredients in Mexican cuisine 

By Gretel Morales - 2024-06-04T17:04:05Z
Mexican food always gives a lot to talk about. In addition to being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage, or receiving Michelin stars, Mexican cuisine is also characterized by including exotic and unique ingredients. Discover what they are! You can also read: These are the most exotic spices in the world  10 exotic and delicious ingredientsAlthough for us Mexicans it is common to eat buche tacos, caldo de piedra, pancita, and quelites, the reality is that these ingredients are considered exotic in the rest of the world. Find out what the 10 exotic foods from Mexico are and tell us if you have tried them!1. Beef tongue Beef tongue is a very popular delicacy in Mexico, where it is cooked as a stew or in tacos. However, the preparation is somewhat laborious, as it must be boiled, peeled, and cooked again. It is quite an expensive protein, so beef tongue should be enjoyed when possible.  2. Chapulines Chapulines are one of the most consumed insects in Mexican cuisine. They are commonly served with guacamole, in tlayudas, or in tacos. They can also be purchased toasted and salted for snacking. They are characterized by being very crunchy and having a unique flavor.  3. Sweetbreads Have you tried chicken sweetbreads? This offal is part of the chicken's stomach and is very popular in Mexican cuisine. In many places, sweetbreads are sold with hot sauce, but they can also be added to broths or stews.  4. Huitlacoche The huitlacoche is a unique ingredient in the world! Also known as Mexican caviar, this ingredient is the fungus that attacks corn ears. Although it is actually a pest, Mexicans have taken advantage of huitlacoche to make quesadillas, stews, and more.  5. Escamoles Escamoles are the eggs or larvae of ants, which have been consumed in Mexico since pre-Hispanic times. They are characterized by their light color and somewhat sweet flavor. They are usually cooked with onion, garlic, butter, and epazote. They can be enjoyed in tacos, but they are also added to moles and other stews.  See more: What foods and ingredients did the Spaniards bring to Mexico? 6. Chicatanas Have you heard about chicatanas? This type of ant is large and has a dark color. It is common to roast them, and they can be added to hot sauce, tacos, or enjoyed as a snack. Once fried or toasted, they are very crunchy and have a delicious flavor. Have you tried them? 7. TripaThe tripa taco is a gem of street food in Mexico. Like almost all tacos, it is served with onion, cilantro, salsa, and lime juice. Moreover, beef tripe is fried very well before serving, as it tastes better when it is crispy.  8. Moronga Moronga is a rather exotic ingredient, as it is made from pig's blood, although several spices are also added. It is formed into a sausage shape and is usually prepared in tacos or stews. This exotic ingredient is very popular in Mexico! 9. Bone marrowBone marrow is a delicacy characterized by its intense and delicious flavor, but also by its gelatinous consistency. Nowadays, it can be found in many restaurants, where it is served in sopes or tacos. It is also common to add it to broths. Have you tried this exotic food? 10. Chicken feetChicken feet can be found in any poultry shop; however, they are an uncommon ingredient in other parts of the world. This exotic ingredient can be added to esquites, chicken broth, or eaten with sauce and lime as a snack.  Now that you know these 10 exotic foods in Mexican cuisine, tell us if you like or have tried any. Also, remember that at kiwilimón we have recipes with some of these ingredients, you can't miss them!  Continue reading: Ancestral Mexican ingredients to avoid diseases