A taco bar is usually a go-to for Cinco de Mayo, but with some questions lingering around romaine lettuce from Yuma, Arizona, crunchy gringo tacos piled with lettuce and cheddar cheese probably aren’t the way to go this year. We’ve got five other delicious Cinco de Mayo recipes to enjoy on the day commemorating Mexico’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla.
This chile verde does double duty. It can be an entree served with vegetables and rice, or shredded up for tacos.
RECIPE: Green Chile Braised Chicken with Hatch Chiles
If you grew up on taco meat seasoned by Lawry’s or McCormick, Alton Brown’s Taco Potion #19 will give you those retro vibes. But you’ll know exactly what’s in it.
Before you resort to the drive-thru, think about making your own knockoff of Taco Bell’s bean burrito. The secret is at Trader Joe’s.
RECIPE: Our knockoff of the Taco Bell Bean Burrito
Cinco de Mayo is on a Saturday, so if you’re willing to put in the time, why not make Asparagus and Pepper Jack tamales?
RECIPE: Asparagus and PepperJack Tamales
If you’re into taqueria-style tacos, make your own carne adovada, a fantastic red chile braised pork. Don’t forget the red onion and cilantro.
RECIPE: Carne Adovada from the Cherry Bombe Cookbook
Finally, we need dessert. One of my favorites is the cayenne-kicked chocolate diablo cookie from Tacofino in Tofino, BC.
RECIPE: Tacofino’s Diablo Cookies