Celebrating Cinco de Mayo

Much like St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo is a holiday celebrated by people far outside the borders of its original nation. It’s likely that many people who celebrate this day do not understand its significance and history. It is not, as many people believe, Mexico’s Independence Day, which falls on September 16. Rather, it’s a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, commemorating a Mexican army victory over France at the battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867).

In the United States and beyond, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. And what better way to celebrate than with food and drink? If you would rather cook at home than go out to a busy restaurant, you can turn to the EYB Library for inspiration. The Library contains many recipes to make your homemade Cinco de Mayo celebration a success. Start off with appetizers and dips like pico de gallo and browse hundreds of recipes for guacamole, including the one pictured above from Food Network Magazine by Anne Burrell. Next, quench your thirst with delicious drinks like margaritas, mojitos, and micheladas.

The options for main dishes are plentiful, and this is one holiday that is especially kind to vegetarians. While tacos, faijtas and quesadillas are always a hit, there is a lot more to choose from, including Yucatán-style pulled pork (Cochinita pibil), Enchiladas de mole poblano, Tinga de pollo, Chilaquiles, and Tamales – green salsa chicken (filling 2).

Dessert possibilities are likewise nearly boundless. Many of them can be made with simple ingredients. There’s no better time to try making your own churros, tres-leches cake or flan. What’s on your Cinco de Mayo menu?