Cinco De Mayo a celebration to commemorate the Mexican Army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla provides a reason for Americans to try their hand at cooking a traditional Mexican meal (and some Margaritas)!

Chicken Tamales

A tamale is a traditional dish made of masa (Corn Flour), which is steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf. Can also be stuffed with a variety of fillings. This Chicken Tamales is simple but absolutely scrumptious. With only 10 minutes of prep time and a cook time of 25 minutes this dish is easy to throw together. Can also make this dish a vegetarian meal.

 

Empanadas Con Picadillo

A Picadillo is a trationdional Latin dish filled with ground Beef, Tomatoes and seasoning all stuffed into a dough and cooked. You can fill yours with any ingredients you like however, this recipe is made with Bell peppers, Onion and Annatto paste, Pimento Stuffed Green Olives & more. While this recipes isn't difficult it will take some time to prepare. Around 1.5 hours to prep and 40 minutes to bake. These tasty meat pockets will be the first to fly off the tray at your celebration.

 

Enchiladas (Chicken, Beef or even Vegetarian)

An enchilada is a corn tortilla rolled around a filling and covered with a chili pepper sauce. Enchiladas can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including meat, cheese, beans, potatoes, vegetables or combinations. A great make ahead meal that can sit up to a day or two in the fridge, then heat 20 minutes before you would like to serve.

 

Mango Margarita

Can't forget the Tequilla!  This variation of the classic margarita fresh or frozen mangoes, water, sugar and salt, Mango Margarita Mix, Triple Sec & Tequila. Can also omit the alcohol for virgin drinks as well. Takes minutes to make. 

 

Kahlua Flan

A traditional Flan is a dessert of sweetened egg custard with a caramel topping this variation takes it up a notch. Taking simple ingredients and elevating them this stunner of a dessert will not disappoint.

 

All photos courtesy of Food Network.