10 Delicious Reasons to Consume More Mexican Products

Eating is a true pleasure. If time doesn't get the better of us and we have enough time, we usually eat – at least – three times a day. And although these daily sessions are considered more of a biological necessity, the choice of our food is an excellent opportunity to support national products. Here are some hints on how you can support the Mexican market by consuming national foods: Bean This is one of the foods that has accompanied us since pre-Hispanic times, forming part of the cherished Mexican triad: corn, chili, and beans. Its importance in Mexican gastronomy is such that it is estimated that 60% of dishes include some type of bean. These little ones provide large amounts of B vitamins, as well as iron. Recommended recipe: Frijoles en olla express Nopal Mexico is the leading producer of nopal, generating 777 thousand tons a year. Despite having countless health benefits, nopal consumption in Mexico is limited to 5 kilos (per person) per year. Do yourself a favor and support nopal producers by consuming 200 grams a day. Recommended recipe: Tostadas con ensalada de nopales Huitlacoche One of the great culinary treasures that Mexican gastronomy offers is, without a doubt, huitlacoche. This fungus is known abroad as the Mexican truffle or Aztec caviar. Its prestige has grown not only due to its delicious flavor but also because of its high nutritional value: amino acids, Omega 3, antioxidants, and fiber. Recommended recipe: Quesadillas de huitlacoche Cocoa More than 3000 years ago, the Olmecs tasted cocoa for the first time, but it was not until its arrival in Europe that it finally became popular. In Mexico, more than 24 thousand tons are produced annually. If you're craving hot chocolate, mole, or any dessert, make sure the cocoa you use is produced in Tabasco, Chiapas, Oaxaca, or Guerrero. Recommended recipe: Bizcocho de cacao Chili Although there are many shades of flavors and aromas, we must admit that spicy food is our great hallmark worldwide. In Mexico, we can find more than 40 varieties of chili, from the mildest, like chilaca, to the hottest, like habanero. Besides being full of flavor, they contain many vitamins. Recommended recipe: Traditional chile en nogada Avocado Originating from Mexico, the avocado is probably the best gift our country has given to world gastronomy. Undoubtedly, the fruit of this wonderful tree has exceptional flavor and a buttery texture. As the main producers of avocado in the world, we can be proud to export so much versatility and benefits in a single fruit. Recommended recipe: Tuna salad in avocado Pumpkin Of all the species that exist, the Castilla pumpkin is one of the most cultivated in Mexico. It is known to have been consumed in this part of the world for thousands of years, which explains its efficient use and exploitation. In Mexico, the root, fruit, leaves, flowers, and even seeds are consumed. Recommended recipe: Dulce de calabaza Vanilla Did you know that vanilla is the most widely used flavoring in the world? Yes, and it is native to Mexico. But don't be fooled: real vanilla is artisanally extracted from an orchid, so most vanilla flavorings you find in the supermarket are artificial. Currently, the vanilla-producing areas are located in Veracruz and Puebla. Recommended recipe: Vanilla rice pudding Tomato Although it is truly native to the south of America, the tomato was domesticated in Mexico. Today, the tomato is considered the second most important vegetable, after the potato. Perhaps it is due to its countless delicious varieties or its incredible health properties, the tomato holds an important place in national gastronomy. Recommended recipe: Tomato soup with parmesan Aloe Vera This is a type of plant from the succulent family. Generally, it is used in the pharmaceutical industry and in cosmetic remedies; however, its consumption has become popular in recent years due to the great health benefits it offers. In Mexico, 130 thousand tons are produced annually, but interestingly, there is a higher demand abroad. Recommended recipe: Aloe juice   After reading this, tell us which Mexican product you would like to include in your daily diet.