Cinco De Mayo began as a way to commemorate the Mexican victory of the Battle of Puebla, but has become a more general celebration of Mexican heritage and pride, particularly in the U.S. (Thanks, Wikipedia!) If you're looking for an edible way to celebrate this weekend, here are a few Latin-inspired recipes from the Bojon Gourmet archives.
Say Buenos Dias with a bowl of Coconut Cardamom Arroz Con Leche, or a plate of Migas, a Tex-Mex dish of fried tortillas, scrambled eggs, and salsa.
Indulge in a batch of Banana Rum Upside-Down Cakelets; they're welcome on any brunch table.
The borrachos in your life will love a glass (or three) of
Hibiscus Tequila Sparklers,
Strawberry Blood Orange Rum Punch,
Para comer, dip your chips in creamy Tomatillo Avocado Salsa.
Snack on Sweet Potato Oven Fries kissed with cumin, chipotle and smoked paprika.
Serve up bowls of Sweet Corn and Roasted Poblano Chowder
or Zucchini Cilantro Soup with Chile and Mint.
Bake up a pan of Summer Vegetable Enchiladas in Tomatillo Salsa with a side of creamy pinto beans,
or my favorite-ever entree for entertaining, Sweet Potato, Chard and Black Bean Enchiladas.
As for postres, it doesn't get much better than Horchata Ice Cream flavored with toasted rice and cinnamon sticks;
though you could guild the lily and serve it between a couple of chewy Triple Chocolate Chile Cookies.
Panela Rum Buttercrunch Toffee is as easy to munch as it is to make;
and so are Vegan Chocolate Chile Coconut Milk Truffles.
Rich chocolate almond cakes are a staple Latin-American dessert; try this one with a good Spanish olive oil.
Thanks for reading, and feliz Cinco De Mayo!
Eva Kosmas says
Love this recipe round up! Mexican food has so many versatile and delicious flavors, I feel inclined to make pretty much all of these :)
Alanna says
Aw, thanks, Eva!
Linda says
Oh my gosh, I am in awe of your cooking prowess. I have a feeling you could round up just as many recipes for any occasion. These all look delicious!
Alanna says
Thanks, Linda - you're too kind.
Jaclyn says
Your photo of the strawberry blood orange rum punch if stunning! I love the colors, the contrast and the beautiful light coming through. You are so talented. Do you mind me asking where you found the vintage baking dish the glasses are sitting on? I've been looking for one and have had a hard time finding one.
Alanna says
You are so sweet, Jaclyn - thank you, and the feeling is mutual! I think that nasty old baking sheet was excavated from my boyfriend's cupboard; he must have had it for forever. I feel really lucky, because it's my very favorite prop! I did read this cool article on where to find vintage food photography props: http://gourmandeinthekitchen.com/2012/food-photography-props/ I hope it helps! I'm on an eternal quest for vintage silverware, myself. Good luck, and thanks again for the really sweet comment. :)
Chester NY Maid Service says
Thank you for including Panela Rum Buttercrunch Toffee! All of these recipes look divine. Hope you had a happy Cinco de Mayo!
Alanna says
You bet - thanks!