Tag: Mexican cooking

Epazote contains a compound called ascaridole, which is toxic in high concentrations. While a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, its potency means that proper dosage is key to avoiding adverse health effects, particularly with concentrated forms of the herb.

Over 60 million Americans actively follow a paleo diet, necessitating creative solutions for popular foods like refried beans. Fortunately, it is easy to find out what is a paleo substitute for refried beans by using vegetables and classic Mexican spices to create satisfying bean-free mashes that won't compromise flavor.

Known as the "root beer plant" for its unique flavor profile, hoja santa is a versatile herb in Mexican cuisine. What do you use hoja santa for? Its applications extend from savory dishes like mole verde to herbal remedies and flavorful cocktail syrups, showcasing a rich history of culinary and traditional medicinal use.

According to a 2016 study in the *Journal of Nutrition*, sugar-sweetened beverages and processed foods are the main sources of added sugars in the modern Mexican diet, contributing significantly more than traditional dishes. While a traditional Mexican diet is naturally low in added sugars, modern influences have introduced more refined and processed ingredients, prompting the question: is there added sugar in Mexican food?

According to the brand's own confirmation, Maseca instant corn masa flour is made from 100% selected corn, which is naturally gluten-free. This makes Maseca a reliable choice for individuals following a gluten-free diet, but consumers with celiac disease must also consider potential cross-contamination during production and handling.

Over 90% of commercially available queso fresco in the United States is made with pasteurized cow's milk. The simple answer to what is Mexican queso fresco made of is: milk, an acid or rennet, and salt. Its fresh, mild, and milky flavor makes it a versatile cheese popular in authentic Mexican cooking.

Over 70% of the world's corn supply is used for animal feed, but the portion dedicated to human consumption gives us two very different flours. Is there a difference between corn flour and masa flour? The answer is a resounding yes, and it all comes down to a special processing technique called nixtamalization.

Pure, traditional corn masa flour, also known as masa harina, is inherently dairy-free, consisting of only nixtamalized corn and water. The question, **does corn masa flour have dairy**, is important for people with dietary restrictions, and the straightforward answer for the flour itself is a resounding no, though cross-contamination must always be considered.

Over 60% of traditional flour tortilla recipes from Northern Mexico rely on four basic ingredients: flour, water, fat, and salt. The question, "Are flour tortillas made with milk?" therefore has a complex answer depending on the recipe and regional tradition, as some variations do incorporate dairy for a different texture and flavor profile.

Epazote, the potent and aromatic Mexican herb, is known for its unique flavor profile that combines citrus, mint, and oregano. When this specialty ingredient is hard to find, knowing **what's a substitute for epazote** is essential for maintaining authentic flavors in your recipes.