Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is a Mexican holiday to commemorate the victory of the Mexican militia over the French military in 1862, at the Battle of Puebla. It is mostly celebrated in Mexico and U.S. states which have a significant Mexican population. Texas is definitely one state that has a large Mexican population; therefore, we have lots of activities and food to choose from to commemorate this day.
Many people think that Cinco de Mayo is the day Mexico gained their independence from Spain, but actually they had been independent of Spain for 51 years when the battle of Puebla occurred.
Although France did send more troops to eventually take over Mexico, the holiday is still celebrated as a symbol of Mexico’s strength, and to honor those brave militia men who were significantly outnumbered by the French military.
Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria, France’s choice to rule Mexico, was eventually executed after Mexico expelled the French, with assistance from the United States.
Considering what Mexico went through to gain their independence, Cinco de Mayo is definitely a well-deserved Mexican holiday; although you do not have to be Mexican to enjoy the festivities.
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, here are some links to a few recipes to help you and your family celebrate this day. These recipes got some great reviews. Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Guacomole from MarthaStewart.com
Baja Style Fish Tacos courtesty of Mardcella Valladolid via foodnetwork.com
Black Bean Salsa courtesy of Paula Deen via foodnetwork.com
Avocado-Corn Dip with Homemade Tortilla Chips from Coastal Living via myrecipes.com
Mexican Rice courtesy of Emeril Lagasse, 2002, via foodnetwork.com
Gold Metal Sizzling Fajitas courtesy of Paula Deen, 2007, via foodnetwork.com
Chicken and Bean Puff Pastry Empanadas courtesy of Dave Lieberman via foodnetwork.com
Chicken Enchiladas courtesy of Tyler Florence via foodnetwork.com
Three Cheese Quesadillas courtesy of Aida Mollenkamp via foodnetwork.com
Next Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Written by Rhonda Wylie
Rhonda is a self-taught entrepreneur, blogger, and aspiring freelance writer, who is always eager to take on new challenges. She is on a self-improvement mission of cleaning out the negative clutter of her own life so she can become a happier, healthier, and more productive individual. Her hope is to inspire each person to eliminate the negative clutter that’s weighing them down, so we can all live our best life EVER!
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