So let’s start this session with a quick lesson in history in all things Tex-Mex. No points for guessing that ‘Tex-Mex’ is an abbreviation for Texas and Mexico, who are only divided by an imaginary line we call a border. And while we only use it in the context of food, the origins of the words are far from it. The words Tex-Mex were first used to describe the ‘Texas Mexican Railway’ that ran in Southern Texas in 1870’s. Over time, the usage of the word has evolved and is now almost exclusively used to describe the food from that region. As recent as about 200 years ago, 1836 to be precise, Texas was part of Mexico, until it declared its independence and joined America. And with this separation and new formation, a group of ‘tejanos’ aka Texans of Mexican descent, introduced their new parent, America, to a whole new world of food and flavour. And with the migration of Americans to Texas, the word on how good this food was, spread like salsa verde over hot tacos, pun intended. Now, here we are, 200 years later, the Tex-Mex cuisine is arguably the most loved and consumed cuisine in America and the rest of the world. Why? Because of its unique flavours, ingredients and the wide variety of dishes this cuisine has to offer, making it robust, super versatile and a must-have in every kitchen.
‘Let’s build that wall between America and Mexico’
‘Oi you, shut up’
Also, FYI - tex-mex seasoning, fajita or taco seasoning are pretty much all the same. While fajitas and tacos are specific dishes and Tex-Mex is the cuisine, you might find the words used interchangeably, especially when referring to the spice blend. From a flavour profile point of view, a good Tex-Mex seasoning is fairly well balanced - it leans on the spicy side, due to the chili powder and cayenne pepper, slightly earthy due to the cumin, smoky due to the paprika and is rounded off with onion powder, garlic powder, salt and sugar. All in all, it transforms into a flavour bomb the minute it hits the pan and takes your cooking to a whole new level. And here’s a tip - our Tex-Mex spice blend is super versatile, so you can use it for a variety of dishes and not simply ‘Mexican Food’. So don’t be intimidated, cook what you like, with ingredients you have and add this blend for some much deserved deliciousness.
Or if you’re looking for some ideas and inspiration of what to make using our Tex-Mex spice blend, check out some of the recipes we’ve developed. Our personal favourites are the <insert recipe> or the <insert recipe>. And if you’re looking for something authentic, check out <insert recipe>.
We also suggest you check out our ‘Level up your Spyce’ series, where we share tips and tricks to level up your spice blend and turn them into dips, sauces and marinades for maximum choice.
And before you leave, don’t forget to check out our other blends from the ‘Americas’ collection. And if you’re a spice enthusiast like us, here are some of our other spicy blends. And click here for our full collection.
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