Culinary Regions Of Mexico For Menu Planning

If you want Mexican food for a catered event, you should consider having dishes representing each culinary region. Mexican cuisine is generally divided into seven culinary regions, each with dishes or ingredients that make them stand out.

North

North Mexican cuisine compasses the northern regions of Mexico that skirt the border between Mexico and the US, including Baja California. Much of this cuisine is influenced by cowboys, so grilled meat is of particular importance. Stews and other dishes made with beef or goat are especially popular. Traditional burritos would be an option to represent this region.

North Pacific

The North Pacific area, as its name implies, includes more northern regions of Mexico that lie along the Pacific coast. A major influence in this area is seafood. This area is most noted for fresh produce. The combination of seafood and fresh produce makes fish or other seafood tacos a natural highlight of this area.

Central

Mexico City is generally considered the seat of the Central culinary region. Due to the area being a busy urban area, street food is a cornerstone of the cuisine. A major staple of Mexican street cuisine is an array of tacos. Ideally, adhering to the Central region's cuisine would involve having tacos with a range of fillings.

Bajio

The Bajio region includes areas of central Mexico and is heavily influenced by the history of European settlers. Some of the major foods from this area include Cotija cheese and carnitas. Dishes featuring pork are especially notable. Dessert items tend to be more popular in this area, such as rice pudding. Including regional sweets not only represents this area but is a way to round out an otherwise savory event.

South

South Mexico includes areas of Mexico closer to Central America. Due to the complex cultural influence, the food is influenced by multiple cultures, such as the Caribbean, Asia, and the Middle East, among others. Although tropical fruits and annatto seeds are prevalent in this region, how foods are cooked is an ideal highlight. Food is often wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground.

South Pacific

The South Pacific region is the southern coastal area of Mexico. Much like in the North Pacific area, seafood is prevalent. In this region, corn and black beans are commonly used in dishes. Oaxaca is one of the more influential cities in the region. Both Oaxacan cheese and the variety of moles are the main standouts. Finding a way for people to sample different moles would highlight this region.

Gulf

The Gulf area is on the east coast of Mexico, along the Gulf Coast. Much of the influence is Caribbean, but there are influences from Cuba, Africa, and Spain. Red snapper and plantains are among some of the popular foods. The Gulf is noted for its wide use of herbs and spices, such as cilantro, and tropical fruits. Highlighting this region's strong Caribbean influence would be ideal.

There are seven notable culinary regions in Mexico making it an excellent idea to showcase a dish from each region. Introducing diners to a wide array of authentic Mexican dishes is one way to make people fall in love with the culture. 

For more info, contact a local company like Tacos California Inc. HQ.

Share