13 Mexican Recipes That Are Anything But Basic

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13 Mexican Recipes That Are Anything But Basic

Who said Mexican food is just tacos and burritos? There’s a whole fiesta of flavors out there, and 13 Mexican recipes are proving that they’re anything but basic. These dishes are like the life of the party, turning heads with their bold twists and daring flavors. From spicy chats at food trucks to heated debates in kitchen cook-offs, everyone’s talking about how these Mexican recipes are shaking up the cooking scene!

Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.
Salpicon de Res. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Enchiladas

Low angle shot of chicken enchiladas on a plate with salad.
Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

There’s something incredibly comforting about digging into a plate of Chicken Enchiladas after a long day. Each enchilada is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, wrapped up in a cozy blanket of sauce and cheese. It’s a dish that beckons everyone to the table, promising warmth and satisfaction. For those who appreciate the finer points of a well-constructed meal, making it an all-time favorite for both weeknights and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchiladas

Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Low angle shot of a white bowl filled with tortilla soup. There is an instant pot in the background.
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you crave something warm and inviting, Instant Pot Tortilla Soup comes to the rescue. It’s a no-fuss meal that combines ease with the rich, layered flavors you’d expect from a soup that has been simmering all day. The magic of the Instant Pot brings this dish to life in a fraction of the time, making it a weeknight warrior.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Camarones a la Diabla

Shrimp in red chile sauce on a white plate with lime wedges and a fork in the background.
Camarones a la Diabla. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who love a bit of fire in their meal, Camarones a la Diabla is an adventure for the palates. It’s a dish that demands attention, not just for its spice, but for the way it perfectly combines heat with the delicate nature of shrimp. Perfect for a spicy food lover’s gathering or a quiet dinner where you want to spice things up.
Get the Recipe: Camarones a la Diabla

Air Fryer Carnitas

Low angle shot of 3 carnitas tacos on a white plate with lime wedges.
Air Fryer Carnitas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Carnitas recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to put a healthier spin on a traditional favorite. It achieves that sought-after combination of crispy edges and tender, juicy meat without a big mess or hassle. This dish is a testament to how modern cooking methods can simplify traditional processes without sacrificing flavor. It’s a sure way to impress your friends and family, offering an incredibly delicious dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carnitas

Beef Birria

low angle shot of shredded beef in a bowl with a fork.
Beef Birria. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

The allure of Beef Birria lies in its complex layers of flavor, a result of slow cooking that marries spices and meat in a way that only time can achieve. It’s a comforting stew, perfect for those colder days or whenever you need a meal that feels like a warm hug. This dish not only fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also serves as a centerpiece for family dinners, inviting everyone to dive into its rich, savory goodness.
Get the Recipe: Beef Birria

Salsa Verde

Salsa verde in a bowl with cilantro leaves on top.
Salsa Verde. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A good Salsa Verde acts as a vibrant wake-up call for the palate, brightening up any dish it accompanies with its lively flavors. It’s the unsung hero of the snack table, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary with just a spoonful. This green sauce is versatile enough to star in both humble and elaborate dishes, inviting you to discover new pairings. It blends seamlessly with the flavors of your meal, ensuring that each bite is as exciting as the last.
Get the Recipe: Salsa Verde

Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad in bowls, garnished with parmesan cheese and lime wedges, with forks on the side.
Mexican Corn Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Taking the beloved flavors of classic street corn and turning them into a convenient, shareable dish, Mexican Corn Salad is always a hit at gatherings. It’s as much about the experience as it is about the taste, offering a communal dish that’s packed with flavor. This salad is a refreshing alternative for those looking for something different at their next meal or event. Each forkful is a burst of flavor, reminding you of why sometimes, the simplest dishes are the best.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad

Enchilada Sauce

Overhead shot of a pot of enchilada sauce witih a spoonful of enchilada sauce above it.
Enchilada Sauce. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

The right Enchilada Sauce can transform a simple meal into something truly special, becoming the heart and soul of dishes it graces with its presence. It blankets your enchiladas in a rich, deeply flavorful embrace that promises to upgrade your meal. This sauce is a canvas for creativity, allowing you to tweak the heat and seasonings to match your personal taste preference.
Get the Recipe: Enchilada Sauce

Instant Pot Black Beans

Low angle shot of two bowls of Mexican black beans garnished with crumbled cheese and lime wedges.
Instant Pot Black Beans. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Black Beans recipe takes the guesswork out of achieving perfectly tender beans, a staple in many dishes. This method not only saves time but also enhances flavors, allowing you to enjoy the rich, comforting essence of black beans without the wait. They’re a reliable base for a variety of meals, becoming a go-to for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Black Beans

Elote

Metal baking pan with elote, Mexican grilled corn cobs with mayonnaise, spices, and cheese.
Elote. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

There’s nothing quite like the experience of biting into a freshly grilled cob of Elote, with its creamy topping and the perfect touch of spice. It’s the ultimate street food, transforming a simple ear of corn into a masterpiece of flavors and textures. This dish is both a celebration of simplicity and a testament to culinary creativity, proving that great food doesn’t need to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: Elote

Flour Tortillas

Flour tortillas stacked on a plate.
Flour Tortillas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Homemade Flour Tortillas bring an unmatched level of comfort and authenticity to any meal they accompany. They serve as a reminder of the warmth of home cooking, elevating even the simplest fillings to something extraordinary. These tortillas are a labor of love, rewarding you with their soft, fluffy texture and the satisfaction of having made them yourself.
Get the Recipe: Flour Tortillas

Salpicon de Res

Low angle shot of mini tostadas with salpicon de res or shredded beef salad on top.
Salpicon de Res. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for something that brings together both freshness and the hearty satisfaction of a well-cooked meal, Salpicon de Res stands out as a go-to option. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any day of the week, offering a mix of textures that dance together in harmony. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for something unique for your meal prep, this dish won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res

Corn Tortillas

Stack of corn tortillas on a purple plate.
Corn Tortillas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

The foundation of numerous iconic dishes is good Corn Tortillas, known for their simplicity yet profound impact on the overall taste experience. Making them from scratch offers a sense of pride and connection to a rich culinary tradition. Perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or enjoying on their own, these are versatile and essential in any meal where they’re featured.
Get the Recipe: Corn Tortillas

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