Practice Your Letters And Learn Spanish Free

By Rafael Martinez

As attractive and effortless as Spanish sounds, there is always a certain amount of demanding work involved in learning any new language. The rules might seem difficult at first, but don't forget that the English language is often cited as one of the most complicated to learn, thanks to each rule's numerous exceptions.

Spanish is no different, but when you consider how many exceptions to the rule there are in English, the Spanish language and its emphasis on phonetics is actually fairly simple.

The Sounds Of Spanish Vowels

All of Spanish's vowels are associated with strong sounds that will help each word jump off the tongue, like from a diving board. The letter "A" is pronounced like an "uh," an "e" sounds like "ay," the letter "i" becomes an "eee" sound and finally a "u" results in an "ooh" noise. The only vowel that retains the same sound from English to Spanish is the "o," which keeps the "oh" pronunciation.

As an example, let's take a look at a sentence in Spanish and work it out. For our example, we'll use the simple sentence "I like to eat the fried chicken."

Me gusta comer el queso.

"Me gusta" are the first two words, which are pronounced "May Goose-toe" and it means "I like." The following word, "comer," is spoken as "koh-mare" and it means "to eat." Finally, "el queso" means "the cheese" and it is pronounced "el kay-soh."

The Sound Of Spanish Consonants

Consonants take a backseat to the vowels in Spanish just as they do in English. There are a few more rules we have to observe here than there were in the vowels, and even an extra "letter" of sorts: "ch." The letter "ch" is pronounced as you'd pronounce the same letters in the English word "champion."

The letter "c" on its own becomes an "s" sound when it shows up before an "e" or an "i," like in the word "cero," which is how you say "zero" in Spanish. A "g" letter in front of an "e" or an "i" causes that "ch" sound, but anywhere else will mean that same letter will sound like a hard "g," like in the English word "go."

There are additional hiccups as well. The letter "z" will make a "th" sound. The letter "h" is always silent. There's a second new letter as well, the "ll," which is pretty common in Spanish and makes a hard "y" sound like in "you." That sound is used in the word "llamar" and gives the word the following pronunciation: "ya-MAR."

Then there's the little tilde that shows up above many Spanish words, such as in "el nio." In this case, this word makes the same sounds as the "ll" did. As a result, it is pronounced "el neen-yo." These are the majority of Spanish sounds, so as long as you practice these often, you'll be able to say whatever you want.

With enough practice, you'll be able to say just about any word you'd like -- and that's a great way to learn Spanish free. A bit of patience and perseverance will go a long way in the learning process.

There are still more sounds if one cares to look, including "qu," which becomes a hard "k" sound. "R" letters are always rolled, particularly when they crop up at the beginning of a word. The letter "y" is pronounced just like its English equivalent unless it's used by itself or at the end of a word in which case it sounds like "eee. - 30313

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Planning For That Special Mexico Vacation

By Todd Holderson

If you are trying to decide where to spend your time off this year, a Mexico vacation may be just what you need. No matter how you want to spend your holiday, Mexico can deliver the perfect experience. Many people take advantage of the warm weather, gorgeous resorts and thousands of miles of amazing beaches to relax and get away from it all. Adventure seekers can find tons of activities to get their adrenaline going. Everyone appreciates the luscious food and fun markets. A Mexico vacation is a great choice for those who want to relax as well as those who are looking for a more active experience.

Usually when people think "Mexico" they think "sunny beaches." That's not surprising considering that there are almost ten thousand kilometers of coastline. There are all kinds of beaches as well, from serene sands perfect for sunbathing to crashing waves for surfing. Water sports a major attraction drawing folks to Mexico from all over the world. Avid deep sea fishermen return for a Mexican vacation year after year. Scuba diving and snorkeling provide hours of entertainment. Chartering a boat for the afternoon is a fun activity for travelers staying at one of the beautiful resorts near the coast.

Warm beaches is just a small part of what a Mexico vacation can offer. Step back in time by exploring ancient Mayan cities scattered all along the Yucatan peninsula. While there are hundreds of ruins, Chichen Itza is the most famous and was named one of the new seven wonders of the world. To experience exciting nightlife, interesting cultural venues and amazing museums travelers should check out the capital, Mexico City. Eco-tourism is becoming more and more popular all over the world and Mexico is no exception. With unique wildlife and dense jungles you'll find exciting tours that satisfy your itch for adventure.

No matter which part of Mexico you visit, you'll eat delicious meals. But if you think you'll just find greasy burritos you're in for a big surprise. Succulent fruits and vegetables complement zesty meats and freshly-caught seafood. You'll find that each region is known for different ingredients and dishes. You can go to any city or resort area and there will be a market of some kind there that sells the local crafts. You want to make sure that when you purchase a gift from these people that it is made locally and not a foreign knock-off. This is the way you will help support the local economy while you're visiting.

You can make your Mexico vacation as lively or as sedate as you like. You will be at no limit as to the surf, sand and sun that you can take in. There are tropical excursions and urban exploration every where you go. You will have no problem finding adventurous activities while you are vacationing. The stories you will gather will be filled with the amazing cuisine and awe inspiring culture you've encountered. With a life time of activities and adventures to explore you can go on a Mexican vacation each year and never do the same thing twice. - 30313

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Give Mexican Seafood a Try in Your Kitchen

By Ken Kudra

When Mexican food is brought up, most people think of beef, chicken, or pork, not seafood. If you think about it though, Mexico has six thousand miles of coastline. With all that oceanfront property, seafood has got to be a big part of their menu. Mexico is situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. The Gulf of Mexico also provides a good fishing spot. The amount of seafood caught in Mexico every year is substantial.

Ceviche is something you should try if you go to Mexico. This is a dish made of raw seafood that is mixed up with salt, onion, chili peppers, and cilantro. The juice of a lime or a lemon is added and allowed to marinate. The acidity of the citrus juice changes the protein in the fish just like cooking does. Of course, sometimes some ingredients are cooked first due to safety reasons. You can enjoy ceviche by itself, as a topping for crackers or as a filling for tacos.

When fish or shrimp is served in the Veracruzana style, the seafood is simmered in a seasoned tomato sauce. The seasonings may include capers, olives, and chilies. The result is a tangy dish with some spice. It is often served with red snapper or shrimp. The area around Veracruz is well known for its many seafood dishes.

Another popular method of cooking seafood in Mexico is known as "a la Plancha." This is a Spanish cooking method that uses a metal plate set over an open flame. The fish is grilled on this plate. The fish gets the wonderful taste of grilling, but it does not tend to stick like it does on the grill.

Winter produces a huge assortment of seafood from the ocean in Mexico. Seafood is eaten especially on Fridays, when meat is forbidden in the Catholic religion. Lent is another time when seafood comes to the forefront. It plays a large part in the religious celebrations each family observes. Every cook has their own flair of seasoning that they use at this time, no matter if the seafood is something rich and sumptuous or something humble.

When you are looking for dishes to make at home, do not forget to look for those that contain seafood. You may be surprised just how versatile it really is. Chilies stuffed with shrimp, spicy clams and delicious snapper await your eager taste buds when you prepare them like they are served in Mexico.

Choosing a Mexican food recipe like one of those described here will increase your enjoyment of the cuisine. Make seafood stews, soups, and fillings. Put fish or shrimp in enchiladas, chimichangas and many more of your favorite recipes. Around Veracruz, one popular dish is known as seafood and rice. This delectable meal is made with crab, clams, octopus, shrimp, and fish. You could also try seafood frittatas. You will love it when you bite into these eggs full of crab, fish, clams, mussels, and octopus.

Do not dismiss Mexican dishes just because they contain seafood. This cuisine makes seafood really shine. Take a tour of Mexican cuisine through its seafood and you will see their culture through a whole different perspective. The seafood is a perfect ingredient to combine with the many usual spices and ingredients of Mexican cuisine. - 30313

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Everything You Wanted to Know about Mexican Food Traditions

By Ken Kudra

Food has enjoyed a long and varied history in Mexico. This diverse history is rich in influences that are now enjoyed all over in many countries. True Mexican cuisine is a fabulous blending of fresh foods that are lovingly made from scratch. It is delicious and finds new followers everywhere.

Mexican cuisine is the result of Spanish, Mayan and Aztec influences. Add in a dash of French and you have today's Mexican cuisine. Although it has a reputation for being spicy, not all Mexican dishes are hot. Some are creamy and sweet. Depending on the area of Mexico a recipe is from, the food could be based more on beans, fruit, or seafood.

Cortez arrived in Mexico from Spain in 1521. He and his group discovered many new foods in the New World that they had never tasted before such as squash, vanilla, peanuts, avocados, chocolate, tomatoes, corn, beans, and coconuts. They shared what they had brought from Europe. The beef, cheese, lamb, pork, garlic, wine, milk, vinegar, and citrus fruits were quickly assimilated into Mexican cuisine and have long since become a major part of their diet.

Every cuisine is based on a few key ingredients. Mexican cuisine is based on beans, corn, and squash. Each area of Mexico then added their specialties. The Yucatan, for example, added fresh seafood and fruit. Northern Mexico became known for their grilled meats. Oaxaca and its surroundings contributed many different types of corn and chili peppers. They make at least seven different kinds of mole sauce in this region.

Around Veracruz, most recipes are based on fish. Tamales, tacos and everything else is made with the fresh fish that is available in this region. Other common ingredients that are used include olives, tomatoes, and chilies. What you eat in Mexican restaurants does not closely resemble true Mexican food.

The Mexican food we eat in the United States tends to be more Tex-Mex than Mexican. In Mexico, rice and beans would rarely be served together in the same meal, let alone the same course. Here, we get both on the same plate at most Mexican restaurants. Mexicans hardly ever make salads, either. This is the influence of the United States that has added these dishes.

You can easily find some authentic Mexican recipes, just do not expect them to be like the meals you get in restaurants. Authentic Mexican cuisine is delicious and worth trying. Take a look at some of the regional recipes that use seafood or grilled beef. They are truly spectacular.

Sitting down to a Mexican meal does not necessarily mean tacos and enchiladas, but this certainly is a wonderful way to enjoy it. The real cuisine of Mexico is rich and full of flavor. Enjoy some at your own table and see all it has to offer. You will be very surprised. - 30313

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What Makes Mexican Food Different?

By Ken Kudra

It should not be a surprise to anyone to hear that the neighboring countries of the United States and Mexico have different cuisines. Nor is it surprising to hear that Mexican food recipes and recipes for traditional American dishes are quite different. What is surprising is that they are different - quite often, countries which border each other have somewhat similar culinary traditions, such as is the case between the US and Canada. So why is it that our food is so different from Mexican food anyway?

Some Mexican Food History

One of the two biggest reasons for the differences between Mexican food and American food is historical. Mexico of course was once a Spanish territory; then again, so were parts of the United States! The difference is that Mexico remained a Spanish colony for a much longer time - and you can certainly see the influence of Spanish cooking in parts of the American southwest. These are regions, which were formerly held by the Spanish and of course, also bordering Mexico.

The US has a different history, being a former British colony with most of its early immigration coming from northern Europe and having different culinary traditions. This alone accounts for some of the divergence of Mexican and American cooking, since traditional Mexican recipes have a profound Spanish influence which is missing from most American cooking.

For a long time, however, immigrants to Mexico from the old world hailed, for the most part, from Spain, leaving an indelible stamp on the new nation's cuisine. Many Mexican recipes are adaptations of Spanish dishes, with some classic recipes from Spain surviving more or less intact. This led to a distinctive blend of culinary traditions drawn from Spanish and indigenous ingredients and cooking methods.

Mexico has of course had significant numbers of arrivals from outside of Spain since, especially settlers from Syria and Lebanon, who brought one of their traditional dishes - shawarma with them. This has been adapted into the Mexican classic al pastor. However, the Spanish influence is stronger than any other in the Mexican kitchen is.

The US has had a much more diverse population historically, meaning that American cuisine is more of a patchwork quilt of different influences and ingredients, which is characterized by constant change. By contrast, Mexico has been able to develop its own style of cooking; but Mexican cooks do of course adapt the foods of other countries to local tastes as well as enjoying them as they are.

Locally Available Ingredients

The other important factor behind the difference in the cuisines of the two countries is geographical. The Spanish had to adapt to the ingredients, which were available in Mexico, just like the pilgrims learned to cook the local produce in Massachusetts. In Mexico, ingredients like corn, chilies, avocados, pumpkins, tomatoes and others which were new to the conquistadores quickly became staples and were cooked along with old world ones like rice, coriander and olives.

It is this adaptation of European recipes to the ingredients of the new world and the incorporation of Spanish ingredients and techniques into the indigenous cuisine that has made Mexican food the unique cuisine it is today. From Mexican food recipes like pozole to Mexican casserole recipes, tostadas to pumpkin recipes, Mexican food is one of the world's greatest fusion cuisines that no one thinks of as a fusion cuisine. - 30313

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Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Rice In Mexican Cooking

By Ken Kudra

Rice is the most commonly eaten cereal crop in the world, being the mainstay of the diet in much of east and southeast Asia, the Caribbean and central and South America. Of course, rice is eaten in literally every part of the world, including North America. Rice is grown in the United States and more apropos to this article, Mexico. After corn, rice is the most important grain in Mexican cuisine and there are too many different Mexican rice recipes to list in the space we have here.

This grain is an immigrant to the Americas, having first been cultivated in Asia and brought to Mexico by Spanish and Portuguese explorers and colonists, who began growing the crop in the new world. Rice quickly became an important ingredient in Mexican cooking, with many a traditional Mexican rice recipe having its origin shortly after its introduction to the continent.

Traditional Mexican Rice Recipe

Arroz con pollo is both a classic Mexican rice dish and a classic Mexican chicken dish. From the Spanish for "rice with chicken," this is the Mexican take on this timeless comfort food and it is an incredibly satisfying one. This is one Mexican rice recipe you may want to try making at home - it is a great change of pace from the familiar American version with canned soup.

Arroz con pollo is an excellent example of how recipes, which originated in Spain became Mexican recipes through adaptation to use locally available ingredients as well as to work in flavors and ingredients, which became popular with the European settlers. In the case of this recipe, tomatoes found their way in to the cooking pot, as did the more assertive Mexican oregano as a substitute for the European variety, which was unavailable in the country.

Spanish Cuisine Becomes Mexican In The New World

After the Spanish began to grow rice in Mexico, it quickly became a hit, working its way into dishes, which combined old and new ingredients, with some of the results now known as authentic Mexican rice recipes. One dish, which we think of as Spanish as can be is paella, but a look at the ingredients commonly, used in this dish reveal something very interesting. For example, tomato is a common ingredient; a new world ingredient, which must inevitably have found its way into a pot of rice and seafood long before a cook in Valencia, thought to do the same.

Of course, even Spanish paella happens to have a slight Mexican accent due to the inclusion of tomatoes and quite often, bell peppers - both of which are native to the Americas and were brought back to Europe from the new world! Needless to say, this is also a very popular Mexican rice dish with many regional variations being found throughout Mexico, especially in coastal regions of the country.

Lightly seasoned Mexican rice is another of the better-known Mexican rice recipes. This rice is served as a complement to a wide variety of Mexican dishes, particularly beans. This is a dish, which is quite similar to Spanish rice; and just as with paella, this rice actually contains some new world ingredients.

Rice has become almost as important of a dietary staple in Mexico as it is in much of the world. It may not have been in the Mexican culinary repertoire as long as corn or chilies, but it has found a happy place in this one of a kind cuisine and if you enjoy any of these wonderful Mexican rice recipes, you are certainly glad that it made its way over to the Americas. - 30313

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Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Rice In Mexican Cooking

By Ken Kudra

One of the most widely grown crops in the world, rice is the most important dietary staple in much of the world. It is actually the most commonly eaten grain on earth and is the basis of the traditional diet in eastern and southeastern Asia, much of Africa, the Caribbean and the region known as Latin America, spanning South, Central, and parts of North America. While rice is grown in the US and is indeed a common food here, it is in Mexico that North America can be said to truly have a culinary tradition including rice in an important role. It is second only to corn in its importance to Mexican cooking and there are far too many Mexican rice recipes to list here.

This grain is an immigrant to the Americas, having first been cultivated in Asia and brought to Mexico by Spanish and Portuguese explorers and colonists, who began growing the crop in the new world. Rice quickly became an important ingredient in Mexican cooking, with many a traditional Mexican rice recipe having its origin shortly after its introduction to the continent.

Authentic Mexican Rice Recipes

One of the best known and most popular of all Mexican rice dishes is arroz con pollo, which is also among the most popular Mexican chicken recipes. The name means "rice with chicken" and is the Mexican version of a classic comfort food combination.

This dish is a Mexican adaptation of a Spanish recipe, with some ingredients, which are native to the Americas. Tomatoes are a common ingredient in arroz con pollo, as is oregano - and in Mexico, cooks prefer to use the stronger-flavored Mexican oregano instead of Greek oregano as cooks would use in Europe. While the Spanish influence is undeniable, these small changes have made this very much a Mexican rice recipe.

Spanish Cuisine In The New World

Once rice was introduced to the Americas, cooks began adapting Spanish recipes to the ingredients, which were locally available. Before long, many of these dishes became traditional Mexican rice recipes. For instance, paella. We usually think of this dish as being the epitome of Spanish cooking, but it is a certainty that in Mexico, cooks were making rice and seafood meals which predated its arrival in Valencia.

Of course, even Spanish paella happens to have a slight Mexican accent due to the inclusion of tomatoes and quite often, bell peppers - both of which are native to the Americas and were brought back to Europe from the new world! Needless to say, this is also a very popular Mexican rice dish with many regional variations being found throughout Mexico, especially in coastal regions of the country.

Another well-known traditional Mexican rice recipe is the seasoned rice, which is often served along with bean dishes and almost everything else. This recipe is very similar to what is also called "Spanish rice" but just like paella, Mexico has its own version of this ubiquitous side dish and happens to be the original home of some of its ingredients!

Rice has become almost as important of a dietary staple in Mexico as it is in much of the world. It may not have been in the Mexican culinary repertoire as long as corn or chilies, but it has found a happy place in this one of a kind cuisine and if you enjoy any of these wonderful Mexican rice recipes, you are certainly glad that it made its way over to the Americas. - 30313

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A Few Mexican Food Traditions You Might Want To Try At Home

By Ken Kudra

Every nation has its own traditions, especially when it comes to food. Mexico is no different, having many unique Mexican food traditions. Mexican food customs include certain dishes, which are served on holidays and other special occasions, with some of these dishes being well known as classic Mexican recipes all over the world.

Mexican Holidays And Recipes

Perhaps the best known of Mexican holidays is Cinco de Mayo. This celebration on May 5th every year is commonly thought to be Mexico's Independence Day holiday. As it happens, the holiday was declared not to celebrate Mexican independence from Spain, but the victory of the Mexican army over the French in 1862 at Puebla.

Outside of the state of Puebla, the holiday is a minor one - though there are some special Cinco de Mayo dishes, which are served on this day, especially in Puebla. This state is the region of Mexico where mole, an important ingredient in many traditional Mexican recipes was developed; and this is a popular sauce nationwide.

One traditional Cinco de Mayo recipe often made in Puebla for this holiday is turkey cooked in a mole sauce. This would be mole poblano in particular (the name means "Puebla-style mole"), a rich, nutty and spicy sauce which is worth every bit of the considerable time and effort needed to make it. Turkey is a popular food in Puebla and in fact, in much of the country. Turkey shows up not only here, but also in many Mexican recipes, even some of Mexico's other special holiday dishes.

Christmas And Other Religious Holidays

Mexico is a predominantly Catholic country, which celebrates Christmas (of course) as well as the feast days of many saints and other religious holidays. No country celebrates like Mexico, especially when it comes to holiday food! Christmas Mexican food traditions include the traditional Christmas morning "posada," a sort of morning dinner party.

At this holiday meal, the menu may include codfish, turkey soup, mashed potatoes with cranberry/chili relish and punch, especially with marshmallows. Adding to the festivity of the occasion is often a piata, something which Mexican children eagerly anticipate about their family's posada.

Epiphany is a holiday, which is celebrated in Mexico with festivity and food and has some Mexican food traditions of its own. On this day, a ring-shaped cake is served, a tradition introduced by the Spanish. Hot chocolate is traditionally served, a treat, which is native to the Americas.

Naturally, we cannot talk about Mexican food culture without a few words about Dia de los Muertos. This is how Mexico celebrates All Saints Day. On "the day of the dead," there are special holiday sweets which are eaten. These include dulce de calabasa, a candy made from pumpkin and pan de muerto. Pan de muerto is a bread, which is glazed and decorated with colored sugar, and smaller pieces of bread shaped like bones.

The most famous food tradition connected with Dia de los Muertos is the making of the colorful, skull shaped candies called sugar skulls. These are made from sugar which is pressed into molds and decorated, sometimes very elaborately - many of these candies are works of art which are simply to wonderful to eat!

Mexican food traditions are a reflection of this nation's rich cultural heritage and include traditional recipes of both indigenous and Spanish origin, a blend which is the hallmark of this country's cuisine, one of the world's most famous. - 30313

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Equipment You Will Probably Want To Buy For Mexican Recipes

By Beverley Drake

There are certain tools and equipment that you will need for cooking authentic Mexican foods. Some of those tools may only be found in Mexico, where as others may be found in a good Mexican grocery store in your own neighborhood. They will help you to prepare authentic Mexican food. You will find that Mexican cooking is very rewarding.

Mole is best made in a Cazuelas. This is a small bowl like pottery dish with handles that is used to simmer sauces. Clay is very good at dispersing heat and prevents hot spots where sauce is burnt. The handles make them easier to handle in open fires. The outside may be painted brightly and beautifully, while the inside is glazed. These clay pots look great when just setting on a shelf as decorations.

The Olla or Barro are also clay pots from Mexico. They are very large and are used to slow cook beans, soups or stews. Heating is very even and ingredients can be cooked all day long on open flames. These pots will break, especially if exposed to extreme temperature changes.

The griddle or Comal can be made of cast iron, aluminum or even clay. The griddle is round and can be used to warm tortillas or for roasting vegetables including chiles. There are several sizes of Comals available, some up to two feet in diameter.

A Metate y Mano is a manual grinder which is carved from lava rock or stone. It looks much like a large mortar and pestle. It is used in Mexico for grinding corn to make tortillas. Water is then added to the ground corn to make the paste to make the tortillas.

Mexico's true mortar and pestle is called the Molcajete y Tejolote. It can be made out of clay, wood or stone. A cylinder of the same material that has been rounded on each end is used to crush the spaces or chilis to prepare them for cooking.

The Molinillo is a wooden whisk that is used to make foam on top of a cup containing hot chocolate. The Molinillo is spun between your hands in order to form the foam.

The Tortilla Press or Tortillero was first made of wood, but today can be found made of cast iron or resin. There are aluminum tortilla presses, however they tend to break easily, so save your money. The press has two large wood blocks or round plates. Mesa is rolled into a ball and pressed in the press in order to make a tortilla.

Traditional Mexican cooking is time consuming. We are fortunate today that we can come very close to the original without taking all the time. Additionally, you may find utensils in your kitchen that will work in preparing Mexican food.

In addition, you may be able to find a high quality Mexican bakery in your neighborhood that can supply you with high quality tortillas so you will not have to grind your own corn or press your own tortillas in order to make your own authentic Mexican food. - 30313

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What Are The Most Commonly Used Mexican Spices?

By Ken Kudra

Mexican cuisine makes most of us think of assertive spices; mostly chilies and cumin. This combination of spices is one, which is a perfect representative of the country's culinary history; an ingredient, which came from the old world with the Spanish and one, which has been a central part of Mexican food for thousands of years.

Chilies are the Mexican spices with the longest history, having been used by the Aztecs for many centuries before the arrival of Europeans. Like tomatoes and potatoes, peppers are new world natives and remain one of the most important ingredients in Mexican recipes just as they always have been.

You are probably familiar with jalapeno peppers as an ingredient in salsas and (in pickled form) as a condiment and perhaps the smaller, slightly hotter Serrano pepper as well. There are dozens of different chilies, which make a regular appearance in traditional Mexican food; many, perhaps even most Mexican recipes would be nearly unthinkable without these spicy vegetables. Whether fresh, picked as in escabeche or dried and ground, ancho peppers, pasilla peppers and many others are an essential part of creating the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.

Culantro, Mexican oregano and epazote are three common herbs used in Mexican cooking which are native to the Americas. Culantro is used widely in Central America and the Caribbean, but is largely unknown outside of the region. Like many other Mexican spices, it is easier to find in the US than it once was, but it has a flavor which is similar enough to cilantro that cilantro can safely be substituted if cilantro is unavailable.

Do not let the name fool you - Mexican oregano may taste something like a more assertive version of the familiar Greek oregano, but this herb is actually a close relative of lemon verbena. Its flavor is an important component in a number of Mexican dishes, but you can substitute the old world herb if needed. However, Mexican oregano is becoming easier to find. You can usually purchase this herb from specialty spice shops as well as Mexican groceries. It is usually used dried, just like Greek oregano.

Epazote, however, has no real substitute. It tastes a little like tarragon, but its flavor is uniquely its own. This herb is commonly used when cooking Mexican bean recipes, especially black beans. However, you can safely omit this herb in your Mexican recipes if it is not available. Look for epazote in the produce aisle of Mexican groceries; if you cannot find fresh epazote, you may be able to find it dried in the spice section.

Cumin is a spice, which is strongly associated with Mexican cooking, just as it is with Greek, Turkish and other cuisines of the Mediterranean. It was the Spanish who introduced this spice to Mexico, where it quickly became a favorite and is now part of many Mexican dishes.

Mexican food is really one of the first examples of successful fusion cuisine in the world. The culinary tradition of Mexico is a blend of flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods from the new and old worlds, with foods and spices native to both the Americas and Europe. It has been a very successful pairing and Mexican spices new and old have made this country's cuisine a favorite all over the world. - 30313

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Facts About Internet Cash Transfer to Mexico: Instructions When Using a Preloaded Debit Card

By Mia Bennet

Should the need ever arise; there are multiple ways to transfer cash to Mexico, each with its own set of standards that governs how the money is sent. Service cost, safety and security levels as well as the amount of time it takes for funds to be transferred and received can change.

On occasion however, time becomes a imperative matter, needing the funds to arrive in a rather rushed time frame. When a crisis arises and time becomes the utmost important feature in finishing a wire money transfer, it is very important to know what options might work best for you and your situation.

The most essential thing to remember in a hurried situation of this kind is that there is no need for alarm or fear. There are several methods available to you that will get the job done quickly and easily.

If you are in an opposite differing, where time is not a issue, preparing before the need arises, is always a great idea. For example, if you have a son or daughter that will be spending the summer in Mexico, it would be a great idea to have framework in place so that a money transfer can be made with quite short notice, if at all essential.

The debit card is a terrific option for this kind of situation or for this kind of traveler. For several, you can trust the receiver enough to have a non-denominational card assigned to their name, which is then associated to your savings or checking account.

As long as they have the card in their possession and the corresponding PIN number, they will be able to access the funds through any ATM machine, as often as needed. If you choose the later of the two formerly discussed options, remember that the cardholder will have access to your account at all times (and they may not wait for an event that you would consider a crisis situation, to access funds).

The reality is that in many instances, we in fact, do not want the card recipient to have complete and unmonitored access to the funds in our account(s). Because of this fact, a preloaded debit card is the ideal solution.

A preloaded debit card is a card is just like any other typical ATM card except for the fact that it is preloaded with a specific amount of funds, thus, holding a definite limit. Once all the money has used, the cardholder no longer has access to any more funds, unless the sender refills the prepaid debit card with more money.

With whatever option that you choose, opening an account with a bank that has offices both in Mexico and in the US will help to make a transfer between accounts easy. Taking a safeguard of this kind, along with everything else previously mentioned, will guarantee a secure and timely transaction. - 30313

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Guadalajara Vacation Rental Tips

By Angela Suarez

Whether you are in town for a vacation or a business trip, there are plenty of Guadalajara vacation rentals such as condominiums, apartments and even single rooms to choose from.

Guadalajara is a wonderful city with a proud culture, lovely architecture, great food, lots of shopping spots and fun attractions.

Finding a good rental all depends on you and what your personal tastes are. The whole vacation rental experience can actually be quite fun!

You will have more opportunities to live like real Mexicans do, shop for your groceries and perhaps get to know some of your local neighbors and neighborhood.

To find your rental you will need to ask yourself what kind of accommodations you would like such as:

Do you want wireless access?

Do you need it to have all furnishings, couch, bed, dishes, etc.

Does its location matter?

Do you need the kitchen fully stocked? (Fridge, micro, stove, dishes, etc)

Would you prefer a luxury rental?

Many Guadalajara vacation rental owners try their best to make sure you are comfortable and will want to come back! It is important to realize, however, that you might also pay extra for comfort and these "little perks," such as wireless access.

There are also single room rentals if you are trying to save money. These rooms are usually equipped with a bed, television and maybe a bathroom. You might also have to share the home with other people, so keep that in mind.

There are actually some very fair deals and bare minimum rental homes but just remember that if it is fairly inexpensive it might mean you will lack certain perks such as a washer/dryer, it might not be centrally located, may not have a water cooler ( remember that it is not advised to drink tap water in Mexico).

Many Guadalajara vacation rentals might not have air conditioning. Many of the people who live there are quite used to it and feel find without a/c. The weather is very comfortable and usually pleasant all year round.

If you think that this will be a problem then you will need to make some adjustments when searching.

It is also extremely important to always have a way to reach the owner of your rental. You never know when a pipe might bust!

Always ask questions if you are not sure what your rental comes with! You will eliminate unwanted surprises and have a great, carefree vacation this way. - 30313

About the Author:

Gringo Guide to Speaking Spanish - Instantly Know What To Say!

By Dr Jay Polmar

My Story: I had a challenge. I needed to move to Mexico for my health and to retire, and I spoke English; I also knew a few words of French from high school, about 12 words of Spanish which could wind me up in fight or jail, yeah - mostly curse words.

Luckily, I met Reuben Varela, a well known Restauranteur at the Balneario Hot Springs in San Juan Cosala, Jalisco, Mexico and Gerardo Tolentino, an English teacher who was teaching 1st year English.

Reuben pushed me to find ways of studying and practicing Spanish, and Gerardo help me create the Gringo Guide. I was the gringo -- and I definitely had to have a guide to get me through the experience of living here in Mexico.

We searched the internet, and books on Spanish, and listened to conversations in the English speaking sections of restaurants in Ajijic and San Miguel de Allende where most of the gringos hang out.

We talked to Americans and Canadians in Mexico and asked them what they needed, and we listened to what they asked of the waiters, restaurant owners, etc. Later, then Gerardo accompanied me to doctors and we went to travel through Mexico.

Now, you can speak like native in Spanish speaking countries/Mexico. It's that easy.

Now, everyone I know who visits Mexico, Spanish or anywhere else in Latin America - can speak like a expat that lives in Mexico. It's that easy. The audios cover every unique sound of Spanish speech. The printed book will fit in your shirt pocket for use whenever you want.

The audios cover every pecularity of pronounciation in the Spanish language. The printed book will fit in your shirt pocket for use whenever you want. The electronic pdf will fit on pocket devices to help you communicate on the spot with electronic support.

So, when someone says: Que quieres tomar? You'll immediately know the answer -- una marguarita, por favor. Or, una coca, limonada, cerveza, or whatever you want!Fulfill all your needs to communicate in Spanish for Spain, Mexico or Latin America?

The book comes with a full guide, by sections to learn, use, and get answers to all your questions. It's guaranteed to make your vacation -- fantastic. - 30313

About the Author:

Your Guide To Cancun Vacation Packages

By Timmy Shaw

So it's that time of the year again. You can't wait to get away from the office and it's a fantastic opportunity to go for a holiday with your family. You've been musing to go to Cancun, Mexico and it sounds like a great plan. But hold on, should you go free and easy? Or opt for the vacation package? Well there are pros and cons to both.

If you are on a budget, familiar with the place (or know someone who lives there who can show you around), then it is a very economic but fun way to explore Cancun.

The experience would be more on-the-streets. Granted, your family might not be happy if you were trotting around looking at a map! For those with a little bit more money, and just want to enjoy what Cancun has to offer, then you would definitely want to choose the Cancun vacation packages.

So what is it about Cancun that is so attractive to many tourists? Well for one, it is famous for being a resort city. The long stretch of beaches, tranquil water and amazing hotels gives the visitor an immediate relief and anticipation for fun. With it's many fun-filled water activities and amazing entertainment centers, there is definitely something for everyone.

Ok for those of you looking for Cancun vacation packages, you first thing you can do to get started is to check with your trusted travel agents. Usually these agencies already have made deals with the hotels, airlines and cruises there.

Depending on what kind of activities you want to indulge in, they can offer you the standard holiday package or maybe even customized ones. For example, newly weds have a variety of honeymoon vacation packages they can choose from. Or for the family vacation people, there is also a wholesome but fun vacation package for them.

So no matter what your needs are, if you don't want the hassle of sourcing or checking out for places to visit in Cancun, then checking out the various Cancun vacation packages is the way to go. Your family will thank you for it. And your wife or husband will love you for it. - 30313

About the Author:

Mexican Boxing Legend Carlos Palomino In Profile

By Ross Everett

Vince Lombardi once said "Winning isn't everything, its the only thing". For most of the mainstream sports media, that couldn't be more true. Countless hours on sports talk radio are spent deriding NBA players like Charles Barkley and NFL players like Dan Marino for never winning a championship. Simply stated, no one remembers the runner up and the mainstream sports media helps reinforce this 'frontrunner' mentality.

At the same time, the mainstream sports media takes every opportunity available to bash boxing, but the reality is that the 'sweet science' more so than any other professional sport places a great emphasis on the quality of a fight as much as its eventual outcome. Fights like the Gatti-Ward trilogy, Hagler-Hearns, Hagler-Leonard are considered classics, and in most cases were very tightly contested bouts. A great case in point is the 2004 'fight of the year' between Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquaio. Despite nonstop action, the official verdict in the bout was a draw.

At a certain point in a fighters' career, they can even be criticized for having an undefeated record. While exceptions are made for the best of the best--Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Rocky Marciano come to mind--having a 'zero' in the loss column often reflects poorly on a fighter's willingness to fight high level competition. Even for the best fighters, an undefeated record alone does little to guarantee a place in boxing history. Certainly, that is of much less significance that the manner in which these victories were earned.

For a combination of accomplishment and championships, along with class and humility, few fighters can match welterweight great Carlos Palomino. A native of Sonora, Mexico, Palomino held the welterweight title for two years during the late 1970's. While he was champion, he earned his college degree from Long Beach State University in California and in the process became the first reigning world champion to do so.

Palomino came to the US as a child and began to train as a fighter during his teenage years. After a stint in the Army (where he earned the All Army Welterweight Championship) and a National AAU title he turned pro in 1972. Four years later, he become welterweight champion of the world by knocking out John Stracey in London, England. Palomino would defend his belt seven times over the next two years before losing it to another great, Wilfred Benetiz, via split decision. He retired from the ring shortly thereafter.

Palomino turned his attention to acting following his boxing career, and has worked steadily in a variety of roles both in movies (mostly forgettable action films) and television (shows like Taxi, Star Trek Voyager, Highway to Heaven and Hill Street Blues). He appeared in some of the early Miller Light tastes great/less filling TV commercials. Hes also done some live theatre work, in addition to generating publicity for a number of charities.

In the ring, Palomino was something of a hybrid of Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales"a very intelligent, technically sound fighter with deceptive power. His best power shot was a left hook, but hed more frequently break his opponent down with a punishing body attack. He may have been a more tactical competitor than the prototypical blood and guts Mexican fighter, but a worthy claimant to the proud tradition of great fighters from south of the border. - 30313

About the Author:

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