Latino Holiday Food Cheat Sheet for the Non-Latinos in Your Crew

Christmas, and pretty much every holiday, is a great time for Latiné families to bring along new friends. Don’t be surprised if your prima brings a new partner to la fiesta, but he/she/they just happen to be from a different culture. Well, the Latino culture is very welcoming, but don’t leave the new amigos without this cheat sheet of Latino food must-haves! If they can learn to pronounce the names of the dishes and roll their Rs, they might just get bonus points with the family.

EMPANADAS (Fried Pastries)

These delicious goodies can be filled with meat, cheese, veggies – you name it – there’s probably an empanada recipe out there for you. They can be made fried, or you can bake them as a healthier option, and they will still taste amazing. I recommend making a lot and freezing them until you need them, because these always disappear quickly from the dinner table.

BUÑUELOS (Cheese Balls)

In Colombia, Buñuelos are fried balls of flour, cheese, water or milk, and eggs (optional). Traditionally, they are eaten on Christmas, but people consume them all year long. In México, they are a fried flat flour tortilla topped with sugar. Serve with coffee and call it a night!

TAMALES

Tamales vary in taste from family to family, but they are a must-have at any Latino holiday celebration. The most traditional tamal is filled with pork and wrapped with a corn husk, but you can also find them filled with chicken, sweet corn, and even some fruits! I suggest making these on the day of your celebration, so they still taste fresh and warm when served.

PUPUSAS (Stuffed Corn Tortillas)

These are another must-have for any latiné parties – they are so versatile and can be filled with anything you want. You can use beef, pork, chicken, cheese, beans – the possibilities are endless. Make sure to try a few different kinds so you can discover your favorite.

MOLE POZOLE (Pork Stew)

Mole pozole is a stew made with pork and hominy served over rice. It has a deep, rich flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more. This is perfect for a cold winter night and can easily be made ahead of time, so you don’t have to worry about it on the day of your celebration.

RICE AND BEANS 

Rice and beans are a staple in Latin cuisine, so these two things must be present at any celebration. Try serving black bean rice with veggies on top of garlicky green beans with bacon – whatever your taste buds desire.

TRES LECHES CAKE

This light and fluffy cake is a Latin favorite – it’s made with three different types of milk and is topped with whipped cream and a cherry. It’s the perfect finish to any meal, and will leave your guests wanting more.

FLAN (Custard)

Flan is a classic Latin dessert that is loved by all. It’s made with lots of eggs and sugar, so there’s no way you can go wrong.

What’s your favorite dish for the holidays? ¡Felices fiestas!