One of the most interesting things about food trends and preferences in different parts of the world is that there are certain kinds of cuisine that reach great levels of popularity not just because of their taste, but also because of the overall food value they provide. All over the world, there are many examples of food from one nation becoming popular in another, and this has everything to do with the kind of taste, flavor profiles and nutritional values that the particular kind of cuisine brings to the table. A perfect example of this global phenomenon is the popularity of Mexican cuisine in America. Over the years, Mexican food in America has evolved and become a great culinary empire that satiates the food thirst of millions of people on a daily basis.
Why are things like this? What is so special about Mexican food that makes it appetizing and appealing to so many people? For starters, Mexican food is known for being spicy and full of bold flavors, which are qualities that average consumers like a lot when it comes to deciding on food. Mexican food is also pleasant to people who have improved palates and exacting tastes due to their complex, layered flavor structures and variety when it comes to choosing different meal components, visual appeal and flair. The combination of these factors makes Mexican food as popular that is has become, and to top things off, the nutritional benefits of Mexican food is the proverbial cherry on top.
Let us explore some statistics. Mexican food is easily the most popular style of international cuisine in America, and has been for some time now, with one out of every 10 restaurants serving some version of it. With over 40% of ethnic food sales, this kind of food emerges as the clear leader when it comes to taking a look at the tastes and preferences of Americans in ethnic food. The popularity of Mexican food and ingredients is not restricted to restaurants, with over 70% of households also using these ingredients and the Mexican style of cooking on a regular basis. Whether you love eating out at Mexican restaurants or try to concoct the best Mexican food you possibly can at home, it is hard to ignore the fact that a unique blend of taste and flavor and the nutritional benefits of Mexican food are behind its overwhelming popularity.
So, what are the nutritional benefits of Mexican food, and why are people so excited about this kind of cuisine? The answer lies primarily in the ingredients that are often used in Mexican cooking. For example, salsa, which is also, incidentally the most favored condiment in America, clearly surpassing mayonnaise and ketchup in popularity, is made from freshly chopped ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic and cilantro. These ingredients are known to be really healthy when it comes to nutrients, and their mix is a potent source of important nutrients for the body. Similarly, the different spices that are quintessentially used in Mexican cuisine all have important food value, and can supply different nutrients in a balanced manner.
The nutritional benefits of Mexican food and the immense variety of flavor that it brings to the table has not only caused this form of cuisine to become popular in America, but also integrated it firmly into American culture. A shining example of this is the formation of Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines the sensibilities of Mexican cooking and ingredients with the local flavors of Texas, which also shares a border with Mexico. This kind of fusion only takes place organically when the ethnic food influence has a lot to offer both in terms of depth of flavor and the nutrition element. This adds significantly to the food landscape of America, and also speaks volumes about the appeal of Mexican cuisine.
For enthusiast home cooks and people with refined palates, Mexican food can truly constitute a wonderful form of ethnic cuisine, replete with colorful presentation, well balanced spicy, bold flavors and great nutritional content. If you love Mexican food, be sure to enjoy it in its most authentic and genuine form to derive the most culinary pleasure you possibly can get.
