Mexican food has become more and more popular over recent years. Over 71% of households in the U.S. have incorporated what are known as mexican ingredients into every day dishes. Of course, it is probable that the best mexican food can be found at a true mexican restaurant; however, these ethnic dishes can be found at restaurants that serve american and other indigenous dishes as well. Surprisingly, although ketchup and mayonnaise are extremely well loved and well used condiments in the U.S., salsa has now outranked them both and is now number one. By the same token, since 2010, tortillas have become more popular than hot dog rolls.
Enchiladas are right up there with the most popular of mexican foods. They are basically a wrap that can be filled with any number of ingredients and mixtures of ingredients. They can be stuffed with meat, cheeses, or vegetables, or with any combination of these. The meaning of enchilada is actually chile. The first time the word enchilada was known to be used in the U.S. was in 1885, and this food is traced back as far as the Aztec Indians. They developed the concept of actually turning a tortilla into a wrap. Even so, the common consensus is that the Mayans developed what the world knows now as mexican food by using these types of ingredients in preparing their meals as much as 2000 years ago.
There is much to consider when looking at the nutritional benefits of mexican food. It is true that mexican food can include a high measure of saturated fats which come from the refried beans and cheese, and it also contains the trans fats that come with lard that is used in making tortillas and beans. However, there are alternatives to these that are a good replacement without taking away any of their flavor or enjoyment.
Fiber is ever present in many mexican foods because of the variety of beans used in their ingredients. The fact is, however, that whole beans will provide more nutrition than will refried beans; therefore, customers dining in mexican restaurants will sometimes ask for steamed beans, not fried. Ingredients like tomatoes, lettuce, salsa, and onions, all of which are staples in many mexican dishes, are high in vitamins and nutrients. Avocados, high in potassium, heart healthy fats, and fiber, are also found often in mexican food. Beef, fish, and chicken, are also found in many combinations of a mexican meal and provide a healthy dose of protein. Again, it is better to opt for lean beef and white meat chicken, as opposed to fried beef or chicken, in order to keep the saturated fats to a minimum.