It’s that time of year again! Hispanic Heritage Month is here, and that means it’s time to pay homage to the contributions that people of Hispanic origin have made to our nation. Throughout the history of the USA, Hispanic people and culture have played a vital role in making our country what it is today. From the arts to industry to the food we eat, Latin American influence can be seen in all aspects of American life. And what better way to celebrate this than to gather your loved ones around you for a fiesta of Hispanic-inspired food? So join Carolina® Rice as we dive into the wonderful world of Latin American recipes.
Origins of Hispanic Heritage Month
National Hispanic Heritage Week was celebrated for the first time in 1968 in recognition of the outstanding contribution of Hispanic culture to the American way of life. Later, in 1988, the week was extended to a month running from September 15th to October 15th, coinciding with a range of popular celebrations in Latin American countries. To this day, a wide variety of events are organized throughout the nation, celebrating the best of Hispanic art, music, culture, and food.
Latin American Cuisine
Latin American cuisine, also known as Hispanic cuisine, refers to the culinary traditions of all the nations on the American continent where romance languages like Spanish and French are spoken. Many recipes and ingredients from these countries have become classics in American cuisine. Here are just a few of the most famous examples:
- Tacos
- Burritos
- Enchiladas
- Nachos
- Fajitas
- Chili con Carne
- Ceviche
- Rice and Beans
- Guacamole
- Salsa Chimichurri
- Churrasco
- Tamales
- Arroz con Pollo
- Horchata
- Arepas
What’s more, some of our native cuisines, such as South West and Tex-Mex food, simply wouldn’t exist without the influence of Latin American cooking.
Tried and True Mexican Recipes
What would a celebration of Hispanic cuisine be without some much-loved Mexican masterpieces? Get your Hispanic Heritage Month fiesta started with a breakfast dish befitting this special time of year. Yes, we’re talking about huevos rancheros! But no ordinary huevos rancheros recipe will do. An occasion this special calls for a little extra creativity. Our Huevos Rancheros Enchiladas recipe is a breakfast meal bursting with flavor. Hearty and savory, it’s the perfect morning meal to kickstart festivities.
And when it comes time to prepare lunch, these simple yet delicious Fajitas with Fried Chicken and Basmati Rice are guaranteed to delight and satisfy your loved ones in equal measure!
Finally, no Mexican feast would be complete without a Classic Chicken Burrito. Made with Carolina® Ready to Heat Spicy Jalapeño Rice, it’s burrito recipes like these that transformed this simple dish into a firm favorite in homes across America.
Caribbean Rice and Beans Recipes
We’re sure you’ve eaten your fair share of rice and beans over the years, but have you ever tried Caribbean rice and beans? This Dominican Beef and Bean Stew, also known as La Bandera, is an excellent meal to build your feast around. Hearty and flavorful, it’s made with fluffy Carolina® White Rice and a variety of herbs, spices, and veggies. If you’re looking for a recipe to feed a large group of people, then this may well be the recipe for you.
Likewise, this Arroz Congri is yet another gem of Caribbean cuisine. Made with tomato, beef, and black beans, as well as a delicious blend of herbs and spices, it’s a rich and satisfying meal that exemplifies the flair that Latin American cuisine is famous for.
Flavors of Peru
One of the best things about Latin American cuisine is the sheer variety on offer. Let’s take ceviche, the national dish of Peru, as an example. Taking seafood staples and marinating them in a blend of citrus juices, it’s a refreshing seafood marvel that can be served in a whole bunch of ways. Our Crispy Rice with Shrimp Ceviche recipe will please both connoisseurs of this Peruvian classic and those trying it for the first time.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to add a little flavor of the andes to a dish like arroz con pollo, try out this Peruvian Arroz con Pollo recipe. Wondering what makes this exquisite yet comforting dish Peruvian? The secret is in the aji amarillo paste. A spicy salsa with a fruity kick, transforms this well-loved meal into an irresistibly aromatic dish.
Desserts from Latin America
Finally, to end things on a sweet note, why not whip up a batch of horchata? This Banana Horchata Smoothie is a creamy and sweet take on the traditional horchata recipe.
Then, if you’re in a creative mood, how about a Hispanic dessert dish that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor? Recipes for tamales go back thousands of years. Made with crispy corn husks and a sweet rice and berry filling, our Sweet Rice Tamales will steal the show at your celebration.
#Playwithyourfood
No matter where you go in the world, one thing is universal: nothing brings people together better than good food. At Carolina® Rice, we believe cooking should always be fun. That’s why we say #playwithyourfood. Get creative, have fun, and express yourself in your recipes. For more cooking tips and food inspiration, be sure to drop by our kitchen to see what’s cooking.
