Did You Know…
>> Tequila, sometimes pronounced, to-kill-ya, is the national drink of Mexico. Bottoms up!
>>If you're trying to soothe a burning mouth after eating a hot chili, try drinking milk, eating yogurt or sour cream. They contain capsaicin, which is a protein that breaks down the bond that capsaicin forms with the mouth's pain receptors.
>>Native Mexicans cooked tortillas over open fires in iron pans. Some of the great cooks still do!
>>Fried ice cream is really fried.
>>Every May 5th, many countries celebrate Cinco de Mayo commemorating the victory of Mexican forces over French forces.
>>Mexico and Canada are the largest consumers of California kiwis.
>>Pomegranate was introduced by the Spaniards and became an essential part of Mexico's patriotically red-white-and green chiles en nogada.
>> Limón: lime (Citrus aurantifolia) is a small key lime used in Mexico to garnish water, ice drinks and is widely used as garnishes on many dishes, including Corona Beer.
Helpful Tips 
>>When working with fresh chilies always wear gloves. Hot chilies like the habanero can cause first degree burns. Keep vinegar nearby. If the chili or juice comes in contact with your skin, use it to neutralize the oils that cause burns. Always keep your hands away from your eyes, even after washing up from working with chilies.
>>Crying over peeled onions? Light a candle. The flame diminishes the potency of the chemical that makes you cry.
>>Prepare salsa a day before serving and store it in the refrigerator. This gives the ingredients a chance to mingle.
>>You can warm corn or flour tortillas in the microwave. Wrap a dozen tortillas in a clean towel and place in the microwave for about a minute. |