What to eat with Mexican food?

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From guacamole to salsa, there is no denying that everyone loves Mexican food. It is one of the most colorful, flavorful and fun cuisines globally. 

Whether it’s a fajita, enchilada, burrito or taco, Mexican dishes are the real deal. When you need food pairings and sumptuous side dishes to serve with Mexican food, we’re here to help. 

What to eat with Mexican food? The pairing, sides and beverages may vary depending on what kind of Mexican food you serve. 

No matter if the meal includes tacos or enchiladas, all Mexican dishes go well with a side of chips and salsa, Spanish rice, and black beans, Mexican cornbread, guacamole, elote, and refried beans.

To complete a filling meal, serve with authentic desserts including fried plantains, churros, flan, or tres leches cake.

Other than mezcal, tequila, wine, beer, and soda, classic Mexican beverages include horchata, agua frescas, Mexican hot chocolate, atole, and tejate.

Mexican dishes are known for vibrant textures and delicious flavors using fresh ingredients and spices. Serving the right beverages with Mexican food enhances the meal and balances the savory and sweet components pretty well.

So, the next time you are preparing Mexican food, be sure to whip up the proper side dishes and condiments to serve alongside. Here are classic pairings to try with you favorite Mexican dishes.

What goes well with Mexican food?

Pair Mexican food with roasted zucchini, Spanish rice, guacamole, corn, sweet potatoes, pozole or corn cakes. 

These foods can also be served with potato salad, street corn salad, soup, black beans, salsa, cornbread, refried bean dip, corn enchiladas, and tortillas.

Mexican dishes typically use these ingredients to complete bold and rich flavor that is familiar to the cuisine:

• Vegetables: zucchini, cauliflower, corn, potatoes, spinach, swiss chard, mushrooms, tomato, green tomato, cactus, jicama
• Fruits: pitaya, passionfruit, prickly pear, lime, tomatillo, pineapples, mangos, watermelons
• Nuts: pecans, peanuts
• Cheese: queso fresco, Oaxaca, cotija, crema
• Herbs: cilantro, thyme, Mexican oregano, parsley, mint, marjoram
• Spices: coriander, allspice, cloves, ceylon, cumin, cacao
• Meat: chicken, beef, pork, chorizo
• Grains: wheat, rice, masa
• Legumes: black beans, pinto beans, frijoles charros

What to serve with tacos besides rice and beans?

When making beef, pork, chicken, or fish tacos, you will always see a side of rice and beans. However, there are other side dish options to tacos than rice and beans. 

Other classic pairings for tacos include:

• Sweet potatoes: Looking for a new favorite to jazz up the regular taco nights? Think baked sweet potatoes, they are by far the tastiest taco pairings. Be sure to add some herbs and spices that get into the spirit of Mexican food.
• Chips: A combination of salty and crispy chips with tacos brings out an unforgettable flavor blend. Don’t forget to prepare a side of guacamole and salsa to dip.
• Coleslaw: Pair tacos with some Mexican coleslaw prepared with red onion, cabbage and vinaigrette instead of using mayo. This coleslaw offers a healthy contrast to tacos that adds a refreshing citrusy taste to complement any taco preparation.
• Mexican street corn: This dish comes together in minutes and makes the meal pretty filling. Don’t forget to sprinkle chili powder on the corn for that extra kick. In addition, top with feta cheese or cojita to make it extra creamy.
• Jicama: This tuber tastes like a cross between potato and pear, typically paired with tacos and some mangoes on the side. Be sure to add red onion, honey and lime juice to make it perfect for the taco party.

What kind of sides go with tacos?

Not sure what kind of sides go with tacos? Well, try these dips, salads, rice, veggies and meats. These classic pairings add flavor and texture to the dish. 

For the veggies, sauté them and ensure they are still crunchy. For meat, beef, pork or chicken will do. Be sure to serve the tacos with guacamole dip or sour cream on the side. 

Some of the other sides to pair with tacos include:

• corn pudding
• pepper salad
• pico de gallo
• esquites
• salsa roja
• salsa verde
• queso dip

What side dishes go with enchiladas?

Enchiladas are a beloved Mexican food, and for a reason. They are soft, chewy and delicious and can be served with stuffed cheese or meat with red or green sauce on top.

In order to enjoy enchiladas as a filling meal, consider these side dishes:

• Mexican coleslaw
• guacamole and salsa with chips
• grilled avocado
• chicken soup
• Spanish rice
• refried beans

What flavors go well with Mexican food?

Oregano and cumin are the most common spices in Mexican cuisine. Oregano gives a dish rich, earthy flavor, while cumin lends the food an unmatched, somewhat bitter taste. 

On the other hand, cocoa is added to several Mexican foods to provide a warm, depth of flavor. Consider anise, cinnamon, cloves, and chili to give exceptional flavor dimension to Mexican food.

Eat with Mexican Cuisine: Conclusion

The magic is always in the side dishes when it comes to Mexican cuisines. Be sure to select one that fits the flavors and texture of the main entree. 

Mexican food pairs wonderfully with chips and salsa, Spanish rice, and black beans, Mexican cornbread, guacamole, Mexican street corn, and refried beans.

After savory dishes, sweets are always served. The most popular Mexican desserts include fried plantains, churros, flan, and tres leche cakes.

Beer and side of lime is casual alcohol that goes well with tacos. However, non-alcohol drinks like horchata, agua frescas, hot chocolate, atole, and tejate are frequently consumed during the day.

Whether you are serving tacos on Tuesday or enchiladas on Thursday, the side dishes listed above are enough. Use these flavor combinations and side dish inspirations for fun ways to enjoy weeknight dinners and parties serving Mexican cuisine.

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