MUST-TRY MEXICAN FOOD
Mole: A rich, spicy, chocolate-based gravy served over a sizeable portion of chicken, with rice and tortillas. If you try nothing else in Mexico, try this. But beware, it’s a heavy meal so it’s best enjoyed as lunch, with just a light snack (at most) for dinner.
● Tip: The locals told me dinner wasn’t really a thing in Mexico. They have a decent breakfast, a big lunch and then something small like a sandwich — if anything at all — for dinner.
Guacamole: Have the real thing done right, because when in Rome, right? Besides, you get a massive portion for a couple of dollars and we all know there’s no such thing as too much guac.
Tamales: A somewhat polarising food, tamales are a soft, corn-based dough known as masa with fillings that can be savoury or sweet. They come wrapped in banana leaf or corn husk so you’ll have to unwrap them before eating.
Oaxacan cheese: Doesn’t matter what it’s with, or if it’s with anything, just eat this delicious, amazing cheese.
Chilaquiles: AKA breakfast nachos. Served with eggs.
Tlayudas: A massive tortilla covered in cheese and toppings, like a big ol’ Mexican pizza.
Elotes: Corn on the cob, chargrilled and smothered with mayonnaise, chilli powder, cheese and lime for a delicious street snack.
Pan Dulces: Translation — sweet breads, but not the offal variety. These things are everywhere in Mexico — some are literally just that “sweet breads”, others are tarts, slices, croissants and the like — shop around for your favourites at any market or bakery. Just grab one of the giant silver platters and a pair of tongs, load it up and take it to the counter.
Churros: Just like you get 'em here only bigger, better and infinitely cheaper.
And of course tacos: Pork tacos, fish tacos, any type of taco you see, get it. These babies are super cheap yet taste the same as — and often better than — what you’d get in a restaurant at home.