Cooking Tips

25 Traditional Mexican Food Recipes

By Gretel Morales - 2025-09-04T09:49:20Z
The Patriotic Month in Mexico is synonymous with celebration, culture, and, of course, a table full of traditional dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Mexican gastronomy is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the UNESCO, thanks to its richness, diversity, and unique flavors that captivate everyone worldwide. From the traditional mole poblano to the irresistible tacos al pastor, passing through red pozole and green enchiladas, Mexican food is perfect for sharing with family during the celebrations of the Patriotic Month. Here you will find a list of 25 traditional Mexican food recipes so you can create a complete and delicious patriotic menu with all the flavor of kiwilimón. Let's eat!You can also read: 20 easy Mexican food recipes 1. MoleThe mole poblano with chicken is one of the most representative dishes of Mexico. Its mix of dried chilies, spices, seeds, and a touch of chocolate makes it a unique recipe that has transcended borders. Ideal for important celebrations, this traditional Mexican dish is served with red rice and freshly made corn tortillas. See the mole recipe 2. Tacos al pastorTacos al pastor are a classic of Mexican gastronomy. Prepared with pork marinated in achiote and chilies, they are cooked on a spit and served with pineapple, cilantro, and onion. This iconic snack is perfect for sharing during the Patriotic Month or at any family gathering. See the tacos al pastor recipe 3. CarnitasThe Michoacan carnitas are known for their crispy outside and juicy inside. They are slowly cooked in their own fat and served in tacos with salsa, cilantro, onion, and lime. A typical Mexican dish that is always present at parties and celebrations. See the carnitas recipe4. Red pozoleThe red pork pozole is a traditional recipe that combines cacahuacintle corn, tender meat, and a flavorful broth thanks to guajillo chili. It is one of the most consumed dishes in September and is served with radishes, lettuce, onion, and tostadas. See the red pozole recipe 5. Aztec soupThe Aztec soup or tortilla soup is a dish made with tomato broth, pasilla chili, and fried tortilla strips. It is served with avocado, fresh cheese, and cream, being one of the classics of Mexican food. See the Aztec soup recipe 6. Chicken brothChicken broth is a simple and nutritious recipe prepared with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and fresh chicken pieces. It is perfect to pamper the family with a homemade and flavorful dish. See the chicken broth recipe 7. Cochinita pibilCochinita pibil is a traditional Yucatan stew prepared with pork, achiote, and sour orange juice. It is then slowly cooked in banana leaves, giving it an intense and slightly smoky flavor. See the cochinita pibil recipe 8. Drowned tortaThe drowned torta is one of the most representative snacks of Guadalajara. It consists of a bolillo filled with carnitas and soaked in tomato and chile de árbol sauce. A must for lovers of intense flavors! See the drowned torta recipe 9. Tinga tostadasChicken tinga tostadas combine shredded chicken with a tomato, chipotle, and onion sauce. The tinga is served on crispy tostadas with lettuce, cream, cheese, and avocado, being one of the easiest and most popular Mexican recipes. See the tinga tostadas recipe10. Suadero tacosSuadero tacos are an essential part of Mexican gastronomy! They are prepared with meat cooked in its own fat and served on small tortillas with salsa, cilantro, and onion. Pair with horchata water and you're ready! See the suadero tacos recipe 11. Stuffed chilesCheese-stuffed chiles are a classic of Mexican cuisine. They are prepared with roasted poblano peppers and filled and sometimes topped with a tomato broth. An economical and delicious dish for any occasion. See the stuffed chiles recipe 12. PicadilloPicadillo is a homemade stew made with ground beef, tomato, potato, carrot, and spices. It is an easy, versatile recipe perfect for pairing with rice, beans, or freshly made tortillas. See the picadillo recipe 13. Chicharrón gorditasChicharrón gorditas are a typical snack that cannot be missed at your meals and celebrations. They are filled with pressed chicharrón and served with red or green salsa, creating an irresistible dish. See the chicharrón gorditas recipeSee more: 5 Mexican food recipes with ground beef14. Mexican-style steakMexican-style steak is a quick and tasty stew prepared with tomato, onion, and serrano chili. A homemade option that reflects the traditional flavors of Mexican cuisine! See the Mexican-style steak recipe 15. AguachileShrimp aguachile is a typical recipe from northern Mexico, especially Sinaloa. It is prepared with fresh shrimp, lime juice, cucumber, onion, and green chili. It is a fresh, spicy dish perfect for hot days. See the aguachile recipe 16. Potato and chorizo pambazosPotato and chorizo pambazos are a classic snack of the Patriotic Festivities. They are filled with a potato and chorizo stew and soaked in red sauce. They are served with lettuce, cream, and cheese, becoming a favorite of Mexican street food. See the pambazos recipe17. Chile en nogadaChile en nogada is the most emblematic dish of the Patriotic Month. Prepared with poblano chili stuffed with picadillo, topped with nogada and pomegranate, it symbolizes the colors of the Mexican flag. A traditional recipe that cannot be missed in September. See the chile en nogada recipe 18. Green enchiladasGreen enchiladas are tortillas filled with chicken and topped with tomatillo and chili sauce. They are served with cream, cheese, and onion, being one of the most beloved and practical Mexican recipes. See the green enchiladas recipe 19. Red pipiánRed pipián is a traditional stew prepared with ground pumpkin seeds, dried chilies, and pork. Its creamy texture and intense flavor make it a classic of traditional Mexican food. See the red pipián recipe 20. Mexican-style zucchiniMexican-style zucchini is a homemade stew prepared with tomato, onion, chili, and tender zucchini. It is a light and nutritious recipe, perfect as a side dish or main course. See the zucchini recipe 21. BirriaBeef birria is a typical broth from Jalisco characterized by a delicious mix of spices and dried chilies. It is served as a consommé with tortillas or in tacos, being a classic of Mexican food. See the birria recipe 22. SopesMexican sopes are thick masa snacks prepared with beans, lettuce, cream, cheese, and salsa. They are easy to make and enjoyed at any time of the day. See the sopes recipe 23. Tlalpeño brothTlalpeño broth is a Mexican broth with chicken, chickpeas, vegetables, and a touch of chipotle. It is served hot with avocado and cheese, it is ideal for cold or rainy days! See the tlalpeño broth recipe24. TlayudasOaxacan tlayudas are giant, crispy tortillas topped with asiento, beans, quesillo, meat, and salsa. A classic from southern Mexico that has conquered palates throughout the country. See the tlayudas recipe 25. Chicken entomatadoChicken entomatado is a homemade stew prepared with tomato, chili, spices, and juicy chicken. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe and can be served with beans, rice, and tortillas. See the chicken entomatado recipe Fall in love with Mexican gastronomy with these 25 traditional Mexican food recipes, as they are all excellent options for everyday meals and for the celebrations of September 15 and 16.Keep reading: 7 pozole recipes for fans of Mexican food