If you think Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s independence from Spain, you’re not alone, but you’re also wrong. The holiday, which isn’t widely celebrated in Mexico, marks the country’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. No one expected Mexico to win, but win they did, and the people of Puebla, as well as many people north of the border, continue to celebrate the triumph every May 5. (If you’re wondering, Mexico’s Independence Day is celebrated on Sept. 16.)
Here are our best Cinco de Mayo recipes for your celebration, from appetizers to desserts.
Florence Fabricant’s classic guacamole.CreditAndrew Scrivani for The New York Times
People have strong feelings about guacamole: Should it have lime or lemon? Garlic or onion? Both? We have seven recipes to argue about, including a classic version, one with fruit(!) and the recipe everyone loves to hate, but is actually delicious given the chance: guacamole with peas. Not into guacamole? There’s always salsa.
Finish your feast with something sweet. We have many Mexican-inspired desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth, like tres leches cake (classic, mango, chocolate or bread pudding), flan, vegan Mexican brownies and, of course, churros. And everyone loves alfajores, little butter cookies filled with dulce de leche that are popular throughout Latin America. They go perfectly with a cup of spicy hot chocolate or a strong cup of coffee.
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