I’m always flattered – not to mention surprised – when I find that some high-level online influencer or celeb chef endorses a cooking tip or principle that I also embrace. Especially when that principle is one of the ‘simple’ rules I ‘live to cook by’…
I have shared today’s Tex-Mex technique/hack/tip more than once in this pace. But it remains just as true today as it was a decade or more ago when I first brought it up…
It was a quick Chili recipe, I think…
I tried to find that ancient incidence of the rule I’m going to reprise today, but it eluded site search. No big deal.
I’m talking about the ultra-basic blend of herbs and spices that defines Tex-Mex flavour for me.It’s both a jumping-off place for more elaborate lavourig adventures and a go-to option for quic, throw-together dishes you want to infuse with a classic South-of-the-Border character.
What it is…
… Is a skeletal mix of fundamental Tex-Mex flavours each of which is a traditional backbone of au-thentic Mexican cuisine, in general.
The source recipe is simply titled East Chicken Tacos. And that, in my opinion, is an understate-ment.he whole recipe calls for only 7 ingredients, exclusive the chicken and other classic toppings.
The spice blend is intended as a flavouring rub. But they can also be used as marinade by mixing them up with a little beer, white wine or even just water.
So, what’s the magic mixture?
All you need to go true, essential Tex-Mex is: Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic, Paprika and Cayenne. Make that sweet paprika and just a pinch (or whatever your taste dictates). of cayenne. The fresh Cilantro is a must for garnishing/finishing any dish you flavour with today’s blend.
And don’t forget the usual Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper.
Use the proportions/measurements of the key ingredients as called for in the original recipe the first time you make the dish. But don’t be afraid to tinker with the blend in the future to make it your own…
Tips…
One of the most important ingredients in the universal Tex-Mex flavouring is the cumin. The inter-action of the chili powder and the cumin is the fundamental pivot that determines how well this blend is going to work for you. It’s the balance between these two key ingredients that will be the focus of your future tinkering…
My take
One important principle of Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine this basic flavouring blend will teach you is, authentic South-of-the-Border cooking need not be scorching, spicy hot, or thin in the savoury/umami dimension. Quite the opposite, in fact!
~ Maggie J.