2 min read

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day
3:13

The History, The Grito and the Food that brings it all Together.

Every September, something shifts in kitchens across Mexico and in Mexican households throughout the United States. Green, white and red decorations go up, favorite recipes come back out, and families start planning a table big enough for everyone. That shift is all leading up to one night: September 15th, the eve of Mexico's Independence Day.

A quick history lesson

Mexican Independence Day is often confused with Cinco de Mayo, but they mark two very different moments. Cinco de Mayo celebrates a single battle victory in 1862. Independence Day marks something much bigger, the start of Mexico's eleven year fight to break free from Spanish rule.

That fight began in the early hours of September 16, 1810, when a priest named Miguel Hidalgo rang the bell of his small church in the town of Dolores and called on his community to rise up. That call became known as the Grito de Dolores, and it is considered the spark that lit Mexico's War of Independence.

El Grito today

More than two centuries later, that same call is repeated every year. On the night of September 15th, just before midnight, the tradition comes alive in the zócalo of Mexico City, where a version of Hidalgo's cry rings out, ending with three shouts of Viva Mexico. Many Mexican families and communities here in the United States keep the tradition going in their own way, with dinners, restaurant celebrations and gatherings among friends, often with fireworks, live music and mariachi somewhere nearby. 

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A table dressed in the colors of the flag

If there is one dish that captures the spirit of the holiday, it is chiles en nogada. Poblano peppers are stuffed with a savory and slightly sweet filling, covered in a creamy walnut sauce, and topped with pomegranate seeds and parsley. The result lines up green, white and red on the plate, just like the Mexican flag, and it happens to be in season during these exact weeks of September.

Beyond that centerpiece dish, Independence Day tables tend to be generous and varied: pots of pozole simmering for hours, trays of tacos being passed around, big batches of beans, and plenty of salsa to go with everything. It is food meant to be shared, eaten standing up, plate in hand, while everyone talks over each other and the music plays in the background.

Bring the celebration to your table

You do not need a big backyard or a mariachi band to join in. A few good recipes and good company go a long way. Here are three ways to celebrate this September, courtesy of Pati Jinich:

 

**Carnitas Tacos

There are countless versions, but my take is based on the ones I ate growing up in Mexico City. I braise them with fresh orange juice for a little tang and sweetened condensed milk, which helps the meat really caramelize. If you dare, chase them with bites of pickled jalapeño the chilanga way, like I eat them! 

Enjoy the Full Recipe Carnitas Tacos 

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Skirt Nachos

Experience the savory delight of our Skirt Steak Nachos—a vibrant fusion of tender, marinated skirt steak layered over a bed of crisp tortilla chips. Each bite is a celebration of bold, authentic Mexican flavors, perfectly balanced with mouthwatering salsas and freshly sliced jalapeños. Finished with a sprinkle of creamy cheese and a touch of tradition, these nachos invite you to savor the warmth and richness of a true Mexican classic, crafted for sharing and enjoying with friends and family. 

 Full Recipe to Enjoy delicious Skirt Steak Nachos 

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Chihuahua Style Discada

Chihuahua-Style Mixed Meat Grill, a delightful culinary experience that brings together a variety of succulent meats, expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, capturing the authentic flavors and vibrant spirit of the Chihuahua region! 


Post it. Tag your friends. Inspire someone to try something new this September.

Find the full recipe here:
Chihuahua-Style Mixed Meat Grill 

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Bring La Costeña® to your Table

September 15th is made of small moments that stay with us. A shared pot. A dish that makes everyone smile before the first bite. La Costeña® is proud to be part of these traditions with ingredients that carry the true taste of Mexico.

If you try any of these recipes, share your photos and your stories and tag us on social media. Invite your community to celebrate The Grito with you. The more we share, the more our traditions shine.

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