At Azucar Restaurant, each dish tells a story, a connection to our roots and a celebration of Latin American culture. Traditional recipes that are passed down from generation to generation are the heart of our cuisine, and today we want to share some of those culinary gems that never go out of style. These recipes are not only a delight for the palate, but are also a link to our family and community history.
1. Tacos al Pastor
Tacos al pastor are, without a doubt, one of the most emblematic dishes of Mexican cuisine. Originating from the Lebanese influence in Mexico, these tacos are prepared with pork marinated in a mixture of chili peppers, spices and pineapple, which gives them a unique and juicy flavor. The key to a good taco al pastor is cooking on a spit, which allows the meat to resemble a shawarma. Served with onion, cilantro, and a spicy red sauce, these tacos are a classic that will always be present on our tables.
Basic Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 kg of pork (leg or loin)
100 g of achiote
3 guajillo chiles
2 ancho chiles
1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup vinegar
1 teaspoon oregano
Corn tortillas
Onion and chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Hydrate the guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water and then blend them with the achiote, pineapple juice, vinegar, and oregano.
- Marinate the meat in this mixture for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
- Grill the meat on a spit or on a grill until it is well cooked and golden.
- Cut the meat into small pieces and serve in tortillas with onion and cilantro.
2. Mole Poblano
Mole poblano is a symbol of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. This complex sauce, which combines dried chiles, chocolate, spices, and other ingredients, is traditionally served with chicken or turkey. Every family has its own version of mole, passed down through generations, and it’s common for each recipe to have a special twist that makes each bite unique.
Basic Recipe:
Ingredients:
4 ancho chiles
4 pasilla chiles
2 mulato chiles
1/2 cup almonds
1/4 cup dark chocolate
1/4 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Chicken broth to taste
Instructions:
- Roast the chiles on a griddle and soak them in hot water.
- Sauté the onion and garlic in a saucepan, then add the chiles, almonds, and cinnamon. Cook for a few minutes.
- Blend all the ingredients together with a little chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a saucepan, add the chocolate and simmer, adjusting the consistency with more broth if necessary.
3. Tamales
Tamales are a dish that brings families together at celebrations and gatherings. Made from corn dough filled with meat, chili, fruit or candy, they are wrapped in corn husks and steamed. Each region of Mexico has its own variation, but all share the same love and dedication in their preparation.
Basic Recipe:
Ingredients:
2 cups corn dough
1/2 cup lard (or oil)
1 cup chicken broth
Filling of your choice (chicken, pork, beans, or candy)
Corn husks
Instructions:
- Beat the lard until fluffy. Add the dough and broth little by little until you get a smooth mixture.
- Spread the dough on the corn husks and place the filling in the center.
- Roll and seal the tamales, then steam them for about 1 hour.
These traditional recipes are more than just food; they are memories, traditions, and a piece of our cultural identity. At Azucar Restaurant, we honor these family recipes, always seeking to preserve their essence and share them with our guests.
