Tex-Mex is a term used to describe a style of Mexican-American cuisine that originated in the state of Texas and has since spread throughout the United States. It is characterised by its use of ingredients and cooking methods that are specific to the region. Mexican food, on the other hand, is the traditional cuisine of Mexico, which has a long and rich history, influenced by indigenous cultures and Spanish colonizers.
Here are some summarized key differences between them:
- Ingredients: Tex-Mex cuisine often uses ingredients that are not commonly used in traditional Mexican cooking, such as cheddar cheese, ground beef, and canned vegetables. Mexican cuisine, on the other hand, is known for its use of fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chilli peppers, and for its use of traditional ingredients like masa, which is used to make tortillas.
- Spices and flavour: Tex-Mex cuisine is often known for its bold, spicy flavours and heavy use of chilli powder. Mexican food, on the other hand, is characterised by its complex and nuanced flavours that are created using a variety of herbs, spices and chilli peppers.
- Cooking techniques: Tex-Mex cuisine is known for its use of grilling and frying, while traditional Mexican cuisine is known for its use of techniques like steaming, boiling, and roasting.
- Dishes: Tex-Mex cuisine is known for its popular dishes like chilli con carne, tacos al carbon, fajitas, and nachos, while traditional Mexican cuisine is known for dishes such as mole, tamales, pozole, and tacos al pastor.
