Mushrooms, which have long been used in Mexico for food, medicinal and religious purposes, add a deep umami flavor to a number of dishes.
Stories by Janet Blaser
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Understanding canela, or Mexican cinnamon
Mexican cinnamon, or ‘true’ cinnamon, has a distinct flavor profile from cassia cinnamon and a plays a part in moles, horchata and more.
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Eating on the go: a look at some of Mexico’s most popular street foods
The curbside carts and stands you’ll find anywhere people congregate are a great way to discover the nation’s wealth of beloved foods.
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Whether you call ‘em prickly pears or tunas, ‘tis the season to enjoy them
These sweet, melon-like fruits are an essential part of Mexico’s history — they’re on the nation’s flag — and a popular part of its cuisine.
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Stock your pantry with these Mexican essentials
Having your pantry stocked with achiote, piloncillo, and other basics of Mexican cooking can help broaden your culinary horizons.
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Huitlacoche: don’t judge a book by its cover
Huitlacoche, or corn smut, can be used in place of mushrooms. Despite its unappetizing appearance, it lends a soft, earthy flavor to dishes.
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Ain’t nuthin’ like the real thing: in pursuit of ‘Fakin’ Bacon’
Many online chefs swear by imitation versions using rice paper, banana peels or mushrooms. Janet Blaser tries them all so you don’t have to.
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Just peachy! End-of-summer harvest means easy, delicious desserts
Take a break from Mexico’s tropical offerings and take advantage: this fruit is currently in season now, awaiting you in your local market.
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5 Things To Do In Mazatlán: eat, drink and be merry should be your motto
Janet Blaser, who’s lived here for more than a decade, shares her insider tips for enjoying Sinaloa’s renowned “Pearl of the Pacific.”
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Viva México! Include this iconic traditional dish in your Independence Day celebrations
Chiles en nogada, a dish supposedly created by nuns for a general during Mexico’s fight for freedom, is as beautiful as it is delicious.
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It’s all in the name: You say guayaba, I say guava
Cookies, BBQ sauce and agua fresca are just a few of the recipes that benefit from the addition of guava’s unusual flavor.
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Pepitas are the secret foundation of many classic Mexican dishes
One of the ‘three sisters’ of indigenous cuisine, these nutritional powerhouses in a small package add flavor and texture to moles and more.
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No oven needed: Easy no-bake treats for a summer sweet tooth
If you’ve got a sweet tooth — but don’t want to turn on the oven — here are some quick and easy, no-bake treats you’ll surely enjoy.
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Masa harina: what it is and what to do with it
Masa harina is a versatile ingredient with a nutty corn flavor and slightly gritty mouth-feel, delicious in both sweet and savory dishes.
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A nutritional powerhouse, oats take their rightful place in sweet and savory recipes
Cookies, meatloaf and pancakes are just a few options for cooking with oats, which are high in protein, fiber and antioxidants.
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A Mazatlán specialty, smoked marlin uses local fish to deliver a flavor bonanza
Try experimenting with this Mazatlán staple that’s firmer in texture than other fishes and adds a robust zest to many recipes.
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Making your own mayo is easy and so delicious, you’ll never buy it again
Afraid making your own mayonnaise is too hard? Don’t be! Anyone can whip up perfect creamy mayo in literally a couple of minutes.
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Take grapes outside the box for a sweet twist on savory dishes
Baking these already sweet little globes brings out their rich caramelized flavor, which pairs well with meats, cheeses and more.
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Give classic recipes a grand entrance with warm, tangy ginger
So much more than a stir-fry spice, this Asian kitchen staple quickly and easily adds a welcome zest to everything from barbecue to beverages.
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Dining Out in Mazatlán: Surf’s Up Café celebrates 10 years of creative dining
The popular Mazatlán restaurant wins diners over with its warm, beachfront vibe then keeps them returning for delicious fusion fare.
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Sweet, savory, spicy: explore gazpacho’s many flavor options
Gazpacho is believed to date back to the ancient world. Its long history gave it time to develop myriad variations to suit any palate.
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Need to use some plump, delicious strawberries? We’ve got you covered
Naturally sweet strawberries are a joy to eat but must be used quickly. Luckily, you can use their burst of flavor to enliven so many dishes.
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Weather, friendly locals, cost of living: expats in Mexico, Costa Rica enjoy same things
But Costa Rica is popular for greater security, its attention to environmental protection and other factors.
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Who knew getting your greens could taste so good?
With just a bit of thought and creativity, a side salad can be transformed into a filling gourmet meal that’s of restaurant caliber.
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This summer, hydrate the fun way — with endless variations on lemonade
Mexico, where limes are fresh and ubiquitous, is a great place to expand your horizons with the many recipes out there for this cooling drink.
