Mexican food is known for its bold and complex flavors which combine fresh, locally sourced ingredients, spices and herbs, and traditional cooking methods. And regardless of whether you’re heading to Mexico City or Cancun, there’s a huge range of family-friendly foods to eat in Mexico
Diversity is what makes Mexican food so unique, and regardless of who the picky eater is in the family, there’s a wide variety of dishes that are available for your whole crew. From street tacos to high-end restaurants, there’s always something to suit the tastes of both adults and children and suit every family’s budget.
There are many different types of food to try when visiting Mexico, but some of the best and most popular options are as follows.
Tacos are one of the world's best street foods and a staple of Mexican cuisine. They can be found on nearly every street corner in Mexico. They are typically made with a corn or flour tortilla, and filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and toppings such as cilantro, onion, and salsa.
Some popular taco fillings include carne asada (grilled beef) and barbacoa (slow-cooked lamb), and this is also a great dish you can make at home in the lead up to your trip to build up anticipation for the whole family.
It really doesn’t matter where in Mexico you go, as from Oaxaca to Guadalajara, and Cancun to Isla Mujeres, you will always find tacos.
Tamales are another traditional Mexican dish that is typically made with a masa (corn dough) base, filled with meat or vegetables, and wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf. They are often steamed and served with a variety of salsas and toppings.
The best tamales in Mexico can be found in Oaxaca, which are often made with fillings like mole negro, chicken, or cheese. You can find these tamales in traditional markets and street vendors, or in traditional Oaxacan restaurants.
Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy (dried corn kernels), meat and a variety of spices and seasonings. It is typically served with toppings such as lettuce, radishes, avocado, and lime.
In terms of rating on the family friendly scale, Pozole is a good option for kids because it is a hearty, healthy, and versatile dish. It’s typically made with hominy, meat, and vegetables, making it a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins, and it’s mild-tasting, which makes it an easy dish to introduce to children.
Enchiladas are a popular Mexican dish made with corn tortillas that are filled with meat or cheese, then rolled up and topped with a spicy sauce and cheese. They are typically served with rice and beans on the side.
The best enchiladas in Mexico can be found in Michoacán, where they are traditionally made with chicken, beef, or cheese, and topped with a spicy tomato-based sauce. In Michoacán, the city of Morelia is considered to be the birthplace of the enchilada and is known for its authenticity.
Guacamole is a popular Mexican dip made from mashed avocados, lime juice, and a variety of seasonings and toppings such as cilantro, onion, and tomato. It is typically served with tortilla chips, though it is also used as a topping for grilled meats, or added to soups, sandwiches and salads to give them a delicious and creamy flavor.
Guacamole is also commonly served as an appetizer, and enjoyed with a cold drink or as a snack. Something versatile for both the kids and adults to enjoy!
Queso Fundido is a type of Mexican cheese dip, made with melted cheese, and often combined with meat. It is usually served with tortilla chips or served as a topping for tacos or enchiladas.
Moving onto desserts now, Churros are a traditional Mexican dessert made with fried dough and often served with a chocolate or caramel dipping sauce. They are also very popular in Spain.
Flan is a traditional Mexican custard dessert, made with eggs, milk, and sugar. It is often flavored with vanilla or caramel and topped with a sweet sauce.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods that can be found in Mexico. Whether you're in the mood for a spicy taco or a sweet dessert, Mexico has something to offer for every taste and preference.
This is a guest post.
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
The thing with kids is always to measure the "picante" and get it as a side add-on whenever possible. This ain't your average fast-food pre-packaged salsa!