Mexican Wedding Traditions: Food & Drink
Like weddings in any culture, Mexican weddings are a happy time with family and friends to celebrate the union of the bride and groom. Some unique traditions and customs exist in Mexican culture when it comes to wedding celebrations. In fact, these are some of the most enjoyable parts of the event. Today we are talking about the food and beverage traditions experienced at Mexican weddings. Read on to learn more.
Mexican Wedding Food
Main Courses
Typically, Mexican wedding guests are served savory main course meat dishes of chicken, pork or beef, served with warm, fresh tortillas. Side dishes generally consist of enchiladas, beans, tortillas and spicy rice enhanced with peppers and tomatoes. The flavors of cilantro and lime infuse each dish.
In the Huasteca area of Mexico, Zachuilis, an enormous tamale, is cooked overnight in a hole and then shared amongst the entire wedding party and guests. It is typically cooked with pork meat and chilis.
Desserts
Mexican wedding cookies are commonly served during the reception as wedding favors. Almonds and walnuts are incorporated into the dough, giving them a unique nutty flavor.
Wedding cakes can come in a variety of shapes and flavors, but typically rum-soaked fruit cakes are the choice, with bits of pecans or coconut. “Pastel de Almedra,” or almond cake, is another dessert not to be forgotten; many Mexicans can’t imagine a wedding without this delicious treat.
Rosca, which represents the crowns of three kings, is another cake guests often enjoy at Mexican weddings. This cake has citrus flavors, is topped with almonds and is a similar shape to an American bundt cake.
Many Mexican wedding dessert tables will combine flavors of sweet and savory together, such as peanuts with chile and sweet fruit candies.
Mexican Wedding Drinks
Drinks served at Mexican weddings usually include tequila, rum, whisky, vodka and beer. Sangria is quite customary as well, concocted with brandy, soda water, fruit and based in red wine. Citrus fruits and fresh berries are included in some Mexican wedding sangria recipes.
Besides alcoholic beverages, refreshments at Mexican weddings include fresh fruit waters and traditional juices. Horchata, tamarindo, chilacayota and Jamaica are common.
Unique to the region of Oaxaca, hot chocolate may be served at weddings as well. Always prepared with water, never milk, Mexican wedding guests may receive a large bowl of this warm sweet drink served with a large piece of pan de yema (bread).
Mexican Weddings: An Unforgettable Experience
While Mexican wedding traditions vary from region to region, one thing remains the same: the food is high priority, and there is always a traditional tie. The solidity and foundation of marriage are believed to be the pillars of a family to many Mexicans. This strong sentiment, combined with beautiful customs and delicious foods make Mexican weddings an unforgettable experience.
Here at Benito’s Authentic Mexican Food in Fort Worth, Texas, we pride ourselves on offering delicious, authentic Mexican food and drinks. Next time you crave to enjoy a real Mexican meal with your family or friends, be sure to give us a try!