@isabeleats

WE’RE FOLLOWING ISABEL OROZCO-MOORE, A MEXICAN-AMERICAN FOOD BLOGGER AND PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN OKLAHOMA CITY

What food did you grow up with?

Homemade Mexican food prepared by my parents. Pinto beans and corn and flour tortillas were everyday staples. Whether it was breakfast, lunch or dinner, there was always a pot of beans on the stove.

How would you describe Mexican food culture?

It’s full of rich flavours that are as diverse as the country itself. Corn is a staple, used in everything from tacos and tamales to enchiladas and menudo. Ingredients like chilli peppers, tomatoes, garlic and onions are transformed into some of the most robust flavours in the world.

What are your favourite recipes from childhood?

My mum’s red enchiladas will always have a special place in my heart. The sauce is made with a blend of guajillo, ancho and arbol chillies and a small piece of Mexican chocolate. No fancy stuffing either — just a handful of Mexican cheese and diced onions.

Do you have a favourite dish?

Chile verde, made from pieces of tender pork simmered in a broth of roasted poblanos, jalapeños and tomatillos — it’s one of the best stews out there. Rich, smoky and tangy all at the same time, the pork literally melts in your mouth and the sauce is so good you’ll want to drink it. I suggest eating it with homemade flour tortillas.

What’s your favourite dish to cook?

Tacos, especially carnitas tacos made in the slow cooker. The shredded pork is highly seasoned and tender — perfect for scooping into a homemade corn tortilla and topping with queso fresco [Mexican white cheese], coriander and onions.

Where’s on your culinary wish list?

Tokyo. The cuisine there is so different from what I grew up eating, I’ve always been fascinated by it.