Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Healthy Mexican Food

You can make your diet very healthy by eating Mexican food. When you cook for yourself, you have control over every ingredient you add. People often remark that Mexican food is full of cholesterol and fat. While this may be true at some Mexican restaurants, it certainly does not have to be true when you cook it yourself. Using fresh ingredients is the best way to control what you eat.

Authentic Mexican recipes are made using fresh ingredients. Fresh produce, meats, and seafood are full of the nutrients you need to stay as healthy as possible. Fresh vegetables and fruit are low in fat and calories. Eating at the local Taco Bell is not healthy or authentic.

Choose fresh tomatoes while they are in season at your local farmer’s market. They will be high in potassium, lycopene, and vitamins A and C. They also taste much better than the bland ones at the grocery store.

Use dried beans when you cook Mexican food. They are high in protein and fiber. They have antioxidants that protect you from many health issues. Pinto and black beans are low in fat. You do not need to add lard or oil to make refried beans.

Chili peppers are common in Mexican food. They have high levels of capsaicin, which is a compound that can help relieve pain and inflammation in the body. They lower your bad cholesterol (LDL). They contain vitamin A and help keep your heart healthy.

Avocados are great sources of vitamin K and potassium. Both of these things help get rid of LDL. Before you run screaming that they are high in fat, remember that your body does need some fats. Avocados contain those elusive omega-3s that we need so much in our modern diet. The fats found in avocados help your brain to function and keep your joints limber.

Grill your meats instead of frying them. Leave off the extra cheese and sour cream. You can get the creamy texture by adding guacamole to your dish. Get your protein from beans, seafood, and meat instead of cheese. Top your recipes with a flavorful salsa if you think you will be missing flavor. The real trick to flavorful meats in Mexico is slow cooking. They simmer beef and pork on low heat for hours with lots of seasonings.

Salsas are easy to make. Chop up some cilantro, tomatoes, and onions. Add some fruit if you wish. Guacamole is another simple sauce that can be easily made with spices, tomatoes, and avocadoes. Do not eat the chips. Put these sauces with your main meal. Eat them with your beans or rice. Add some on top of your tacos, enchiladas, or tostadas.

You can take charge of your diet by cooking your own food. You get to control the flavors, portions, and ingredients. If you do not like one flavor, substitute another. Add other ingredients like rice, mushrooms, or different seasonings. The meal will be delicious and filling. Stay far away from America’s idea of Mexican food. This is where most of the calories and fat comes from. Pick some of your favorite authentic recipes and make them as part of your everyday meals. Mexican recipes are a great way to feed the family.

Cinco de Mayo celebrations are held regionally in Mexico in the area around Pueblo, where the historic battle with the French took place. In the United States, this holiday is honored almost everywhere as a celebration of Mexican culture. Many people host their own parties.

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