What are the key cooking methods Mexicans use?

1. Braising: This is a popular cooking method where meat or vegetables are cooked slowly in a covered pot with a small amount of liquid and aromatic ingredients like garlic, onions, herbs, and spices. Braising makes tough cuts of meat tender and the liquid becomes a flavorful sauce that can be served with the dish. Examples include "Carnitas" (slow-braised pork shoulder), "Barbacoa" (slow-braised beef or goat), and "Cochinita Pibil" (slow-braised pork marinated in achiote paste and wrapped in banana leaves).

2. Simmering: Similar to braising, simmering involves cooking ingredients in a liquid at a temperature below boiling for an extended period. This allows for the flavors of the ingredients to develop and results in a tender, succulent dish. Soups, stews, and moles (complex sauces) are often made using this method.

3. Frying: Frying is widely used in Mexican cooking. Ingredients like meat, seafood, vegetables, or masa (corn dough) are coated in a batter or egg wash and then fried in hot oil until crispy. This method is used for making dishes such as "Tacos Dorados" (fried tacos with various fillings), "Tostadas" (fried corn tortillas topped with various ingredients), "Enchiladas" (corn tortillas filled with meat or cheese and topped with a chili sauce and cheese), and "Flautas" (rolled tacos that are fried).

4. Steaming: Steaming involves cooking food over boiling water or other liquids, allowing steam to circulate and cook the ingredients. This preserves the natural flavors and nutrients of delicate foods. A popular Mexican dish made using this method is "Tamales," which are masa dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, or fruits and wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and then steamed.

5. Roasting: Roasting involves cooking food in an oven at high heat. This method is used to prepare various meats, vegetables, and even some fruits. Chicken, pork, beef, and vegetables like chiles, tomatoes, and nopales (cactus paddles) are often roasted to bring out their flavors. Roasted ingredients are often used as a base for making salsas, sauces, and other dishes.

6. Grilling: Grilling involves cooking food over hot coals or a metal grate placed over an open flame. This method imparts a smoky flavor and characteristic grill marks. Mexican dishes like "Arrachera" (grilled flank steak), "Al Pastor" (marinated pork shoulder grilled on a vertical rotisserie), and "Pollo Asado" (grilled chicken) are popular examples.

7. Stewing: Stewing is similar to braising but involves cooking smaller pieces of meat or vegetables in a covered pot with liquid, often with added herbs, spices, and vegetables. Stews can be made with various ingredients and are typically served as a hearty, flavorful dish.

These cooking methods form the foundation of many traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes, each contributing to the unique flavors, textures, and aromas that make Mexican cuisine so beloved around the world.