The holidays are a time for warmth, joy, and unforgettable flavors—and there’s no better way to spice up your celebrations than with iconic Mexican dishes. From hearty stews to sweet treats, these traditional recipes bring a vibrant twist to the season. Ready to fall in love with every bite? Let’s dig in!
Tamales
If you’ve been invited into a Mexican kitchen during the holidays, chances are, you’ve seen the magic of tamales in the making. They’re a celebration of family, culture, and love wrapped up in corn husks!
Tamales are made from masa (a dough made from corn) and filled with shredded pork cooked in red chile sauce, green chile chicken, or even sweet versions made with raisins and cinnamon.
And oh, the flavor! One bite of a tamal transports you. The masa is soft and slightly sweet, complementing the richness of the filling. If you’ve never made tamales, now’s the perfect time to try!
Chicharrones
Need to taste a crunchy delight? Ever heard of Chicharrones? These crispy, golden pieces of pork perfection is a symbol of indulgence, joy, and a little bit of rebellion against the everyday.
In Mexican culture, chicharrones are a culinary treasure, loved by everyone from abuelitas to the tiniest, most eager toddlers. And during the holidays, they truly shine!
Families gather around, breaking them into pieces to dip into salsa or scoop up guacamole. Whether you’re making them from scratch or it’s store-brought, let their crunch transport you to a festive table in Mexico!
Queso Fundido
If you’ve ever dipped a warm tortilla into a bubbling dish of melted cheese topped with spicy chorizo, you know you’re in for a treat! And if you haven’t, trust me, you’re missing half of your life!
Well, for starters, it’s the ultimate comfort food. It’s melted into creamy perfection and topped with crumbled, cooked chorizo or other flavorful toppings like roasted poblano peppers, mushrooms, or even sautéed onions.
In every stretchy bite, you can taste the care and warmth that went into preparing it. It’s food that makes you feel at home, even if you’re miles away!
Elote
Have you ever taken a bite of something so simple yet so perfect it felt like a hug in food form? That’s elote for you. It’s a tradition, a memory, and a flavor bomb all wrapped up in one!
Elote starts with the most fundamental ingredient: corn. But not just any corn. Mexican corn has a robust, slightly chewy texture that holds up to all the incredible toppings that make this dish legendary.
After it’s grilled or boiled, the corn is brushed generously with a mixture of mayo and crema (a silky Mexican cream), then rolled in crumbly, salty cotija cheese. Enough to make your mouth water, right?
Pozole
If there’s one dish that can instantly warm your heart and fill your home with the spirit of the holidays, it’s pozole. So, what exactly is pozole? Why do Mexicans love pozole so much?
Pozole’s a rich, hearty stew made with hominy and meat—usually pork, though chicken or even beef can be used. Its broth is magic—infused with chilies, garlic, onions, and other spices!
There’s love in every spoonful of pozole! So, gather your ingredients, invite your family and friends, and let the stew simmer while you share stories and laughter.
Empanada
Oh, the little pockets of joy for the holidays! They’re like edible presents, each one hiding a surprise filling. They can be savory or sweet, depending on the occasion or the cook’s creativity.
Popular savory fillings include spiced ground beef, shredded chicken, or cheese with roasted poblano peppers. On the sweet side, you might find empanadas stuffed with pumpkin, guava, or sweetened cream cheese.
Mexicans love empanadas because they can be anything you want them to be. But more than that, they’re tied to the act of sharing. So, who do you like to share it with?
Menudo
A dish that, if you’ve never tried it, you’re missing out on a bowl of warmth, love, and unmistakable flavor! It is often the savior of the morning after a festive holiday party.
Menudo is a rich and hearty soup made primarily from beef tripe (the stomach lining) and hominy, simmered in a flavorful broth that’s spiced with dried chilies, garlic, onions, and oregano.
Cooking it will require your patience! You want your menudo to be unforgettable? Slow cooking is a must. The tripe has to be tenderized first, developing the deep, complex flavors of the soup!
Caldo de Res
During the holidays, when the air is crisp and hearts are full, caldo de res becomes a beloved centerpiece at family gatherings. It’s a meal that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!
Start with beef shanks or short ribs, simmered slowly to create a flavorful broth. Into the pot go an assortment of vegetables—corn on the cob, carrots, zucchini, potatoes, and sometimes chayote or green beans.
Serve it with warm tortillas, a side of rice, or a sprinkle of chili for an extra kick, and you’ve got a meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Sopa de Tortilla
So, what is sopa de tortilla? It’s a tomato-based soup infused with smoky, earthy flavors from dried chilies like pasilla or guajillo. But the magic happens when you add the topping!
It could be strips of crispy, fried tortillas, creamy avocado, tangy queso fresco, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of crema. Some people like to add shredded chicken for a heartier version.
It’s often served as a starter, warming up the table before the main dishes. So grab some fresh tortillas, roast a few chilies, and let the aroma of this timeless dish fill your kitchen!
Mole Poblano
There are dishes that impress, and then there are dishes that leave a lasting imprint on your heart. Mole poblano belongs to the latter. It has its rightful place at the table as a symbol of Mexican heritage!
At first glance, it might seem like a simple sauce. But one taste reveals its intricate complexity. It’s made by blending dried chilies like ancho and mulato, toasted seeds and nuts, and fragrant spices.
The result is a smoky, slightly sweet, earthy sauce that is unlike anything else you’ve ever tasted! Though this isn’t the dish you throw at the last minute, it demands time, patience, and a deep respect for tradition.
Tacos al Pastor
If there’s one dish that can instantly transport you to the bustling streets of Mexico, it’s tacos al pastor. With their vibrant colors and bold flavors, these are culinary treats to Mexico’s history and creativity.
Beloved as an everyday favorite, tacos al pastor shine during the holidays: corn tortillas filled with pork marinated in dried chilies, spices, and pineapple juice, creating smoky, slightly sweet flavors perfect for festive gatherings.
Trust me, one bite, and you’ll understand why they’ve captured hearts worldwide, not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Birria
If you’ve ever been lucky enough to enjoy a bowl of this rich, flavorful stew, you know it’s an immaculate taste! Let’s talk about birria, a dish of celebration and a star during holidays.
It’s a slow-cooked stew, traditionally made with goat meat, though beef and lamb have become popular alternatives. The meat is marinated in a bold mixture of dried chilies, herbs, and spices!
Birria is often served with fresh chopped onions, cilantro, and lime, alongside warm tortillas for dipping. Whether it’s served as a hearty dinner on Christmas or as a cure-all on New Year’s Day, it’s yummy!
Carnitas
Golden, tender, and bursting with flavor, carnitas brings everyone running to the table! Preparing them is a communal activity, with family members gathering to help, sharing stories, and waiting for the magic to happen.
They’re chunks of pork cooked slowly until they’re irresistibly tender and perfectly caramelized. The name itself means “little meats,” and it’s a nod to the small, bite-sized pieces that make it so easy to share.
The pork absorbs all the citrusy, garlicky goodness it’s cooked in, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to describe but impossible to forget. If you’ve never made carnitas, don’t be intimidated. Just do it!
Bacalao
Originally brought to Mexico by Spanish influence, bacalao a la Vizcaína is made with salted codfish, which is soaked for hours (sometimes overnight) to rehydrate and remove the excess salt.
This process reflects the care and patience behind bacalao. The cod is simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce with olive oil, garlic, onions, green olives, capers, potatoes, and occasionally raisins for subtle sweetness.
It’s typically served with warm bolillos (Mexican bread rolls) or crackers, perfect for scooping up the rich, flavorful sauce. If you’ve never tried making bacalao, the holidays are the perfect time to start!
Romeritos
If you’ve never tried romeritos, you’re in for a treat—and a story! They’re a dish made with a leafy green vegetable that looks like rosemary but has a flavor closer to spinach or chard.
These greens are cooked and often combined with potatoes, dried shrimp patties (tortitas de camarón), and a rich, earthy mole sauce, giving the dish its signature depth and a touch of sweetness.
This dish is deeply tied to Christmas, and Lent, when avoiding red meats is customary. So, if you’re looking for a unique dish with authentic Mexican flavor this holiday, romeritos are a must-try.
Chiles en Nogada
If you’ve never made chiles en nogada, the holidays are the perfect time to give it a try. It’s a dish that requires time and care but rewards you with a feast for the senses!
It starts with a roasted poblano pepper stuffed with a savory-sweet picadillo filling of meat, fruits, nuts, and spices, topped with creamy walnut sauce, pomegranate seeds, and parsley for a festive finish.
Legend says chiles en nogada originated in Puebla, created by Santa Mónica convent nuns to honor Agustín de Iturbide. Its red, white, and green colors symbolize Mexico’s newly formed national flag and independence. Cool, right?
Cochinita Pibil
Imagine the aroma of citrus, smoky spices, and earthy banana leaves filling your home. That’s the allure of cochinita pibil, a Yucatecan masterpiece as rich in flavor as it is in history.
How to start it? Marinate pork in sour orange juice and achiote paste for a bold, earthy flavor. Wrapped in banana leaves and slow-roasted—traditionally in an underground oven—it becomes smoky, tender, and deeply flavorful.
Served with warm tortillas, tangy pickled onions, and fiery habanero salsa, every bite is a harmony of savory, citrusy, and spicy notes. Also, the tender pork melts in your mouth! Mouthwatering!
Enchiladas Suizas
Few dishes can match the cozy, indulgent charm of enchiladas suizas. Their creamy green sauce and melty cheese are a holiday classic that brings warmth, flavor, and tradition to the table.
Enchiladas suizas are rolled corn tortillas filled with chicken, smothered in creamy green tomatillo sauce, topped with melted cheese, and finished with crema and onions. A cool, crisp finish, I’d say!
A little bit of fun fact! The name “suizas,” which means “Swiss” in Spanish, reflects the influence of Swiss immigrants and the heavy use of cheese and cream. Interesting history, right?
Carne Asada
If there’s one dish that guarantees a crowd around the table—and around the grill—it’s carne asada. There’s something about the sound of the meat sizzling over an open flame and its smoky aroma!
Thin, tender cuts of beef—usually flank or skirt steak—are marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and sometimes a splash of beer or orange juice for extra depth.
Once the meat hits the flames, magic happens. The marinade caramelizes, creating charred edges that deliver a smoky, slightly sweet crunch while the inside stays tender and juicy. I could smell it from here!
Barbacoa
Do you want to see your guests lingering at the table, eager to eat? Well, barbacoa could help you with that! Once you smell it, prepare to get hungry!
It’s usually lamb, goat, or beef—cooked in an underground pit lined with hot stones and covered with maguey leaves. Over hours of slow cooking, the meat becomes so tender it practically falls apart!
And its marinade? Oh, savory! A mix of dried chilies, garlic, onion, vinegar, and spices like cumin and oregano creates a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy blend that’s absorbed deep into the meat.
Pescado a la Veracruzana
This dish is like sunshine on a plate—a beautiful combination of fresh, zesty, and savory flavors that make you feel like you’re dining by the sea, even in the heart of winter!
The highlight of this dish? It’s the sauce! Rich, tangy tomato-based creation with Spanish and coastal Mexican influences. The fish, often red snapper or another firm white fish, is seared or baked to tender perfection!
If you cannot find those fishes, you can use other white fish like tilapia, cod, or halibut, depending on what’s available. And the sauce? It’s so good you’ll want to put it on everything!
Arroz Rojo
It’s the kind of dish that never plays second fiddle, no matter how extravagant the main course is. When it comes to the holidays, arroz rojo is the glue that ties the entire meal together.
It’s a long-grain rice cooked to perfection in a tomato-based broth. A pinch of cumin and a bay leaf might sneak in, filling the kitchen with the promise of something delicious.
It’s a dish that’s universally loved, and even picky eaters are pleased with its flavors! And let’s be honest; no holiday spread feels complete without that signature mound of red rice next to your favorite dishes.
Frijoles Charros
Do you love beans? This one’s for you! Frijoles charros is smoky, savory, and downright irresistible, with a depth of flavor that will make you crave another bowl.
Grab your pinto beans and slow-cook them until tender in a rich and smoky broth! Don’t forget the extras—crispy bacon, savory chorizo, diced ham, and sometimes even hot dogs for a playful touch.
While it’s traditionally a side dish, it can easily hold its own as a main meal, especially when served with rice or crusty bread! How would you like to enjoy it? Tell us!
Esquites
If you’ve ever strolled through a Mexican street market, chances are the aroma of esquites stopped you in your tracks. That warm, buttery corn simmered to perfection? Impossible to resist!
It’s the perfect combination of nostalgia and indulgence. The corn is cut off the cob and simmered with epazote, onion, and a touch of butter, creating a flavorful base that’s tender, aromatic, and comforting.
Sprinkle on some chili powder or tajín, and you have a snack that hits every flavor note: creamy, tangy, savory, and spicy! Plus, esquites a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
Buñuelos
Imagine biting into a golden, crispy disk that shatters into delicate flakes, leaving a hint of cinnamon and sugar lingering on your tongue. Sound irresistible? That’s exactly what buñuelos is all about!
They have been a part of Mexican culture for centuries, with roots tracing back to Spain. Once fried, they’re either coated in cinnamon sugar or served with a warm piloncillo syrup! Sweet.
Many families believe that breaking a buñuelo into pieces brings good luck for the year ahead, making them an essential part of holiday traditions. And the sound of that first crisp bite? Pure happiness!
Papas con chorizo
In Mexico, few dishes bring as much comfort and flavor as papas con chorizo during the holidays. This humble yet irresistible dish combines tender potatoes and spicy, smoky chorizo into a symphony of textures!
It’s easy to cook! Just boil your potatoes (you can mash or cube them) and pair them with chorizo, cook until it releases its vibrant red oils, infusing the potatoes with its smoky, tangy essence!
Afterward, the two ingredients are sautéed together with a touch of onion, garlic, and sometimes a hint of fresh or dried chili for extra depth. The result? Flavors popping in your mouth!
Nopales Salad
Well, if you haven’t heard by now, yes—cactus is edible! It’s a healthy salad dish in Mexico! (Don’t forget to remove the pricks from its tender paddles.)
Once cleaned of their spines and boiled, they taste delightfully tangy with just a hint of earthiness. Add juicy tomatoes, crisp onions, fresh cilantro, and lime juice, and tada— you have a tasty salad!
So, this holiday season, why not give nopales salad a place at your table? Fresh cactus paddles can be easily found in most Mexican markets! Impress your guests this Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
Conchas
Mexico’s most beloved sweet bread! Just one look at their beautiful, shell-like design, and you know they’re special. But it’s that first bite—the soft, pillowy bread with a buttery, crumbly sugar crust—that’s unforgettable!
Served warm with hot chocolate or coffee, they have a way of making chilly mornings feel cozy. They’re a staple in Mexican bakeries, or panaderías, where the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air.
They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a midnight snack after a long day of celebrating. Dip them in your champurrado, and you’re about to taste heaven!
Pan de Muerto
Tender, sweet, and fragrant, pan de muerto is a seasonal favorite that graces tables during Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) but is also enjoyed as a comforting treat during the holiday season.
Made from a buttery, brioche-like dough, it’s infused with orange blossom water or citrus zest, giving it a floral aroma. A sprinkle of sugar on top adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch.
Why is this bread so loved? It’s more than its delicious taste. Pan de muerto is deeply symbolic, a reminder to celebrate life and honor loved ones who have passed.
Crème caramel
Let me tell you about flan, also known as crème caramel. If I’m going to suggest a Mexican delicacy to you, this is it! One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s loved by many!
It’s made with just a handful of ingredients: eggs, sugar, milk, and vanilla. Yet, when those ingredients are combined and baked just right, you get this treasured sweet!
The custard becomes luxuriously smooth and creamy, while the caramel on top transforms into a glossy, sweet layer that melts in your mouth. The joy of flipping it out of its mold? It’s so satisfying!
Arroz con Leche
Missing your grandma’s during Christmas because she lives far away? Have some arroz con leche! It’s the kind of dish grandmothers make, filling kitchens with the soothing aroma of milk and cinnamon simmering together.
The main ingredients are rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Some versions include a touch of vanilla, condensed milk for added creaminess, or raisins for a chewy, sweet contrast.
It’s easy to make! Slowly cook the rice in milk, absorbing all the flavors until it reaches a pudding-like consistency. Then, serve it warm or chilled! It’s up to your preference.
Tres Leches Cake
If you haven’t tried Tres Leches Cake, let me tell you—you’re missing out on one of the most indulgent desserts ever to grace a holiday table! Take a bite, and you’ll forget your name.
Made with a light, airy sponge base, the cake is punctured after baking and drenched in a mix of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. It’s luxuriously moist without being soggy!
Every bite feels like a party on your taste buds—rich, creamy, and just sweet enough to leave you wanting more. Don’t forget to serve it cold for the ultimate creamy experience!
Churros
I think everyone knows churros! Whether it’s enjoyed as a street food snack or the sweet conclusion to a festive holiday feast, churros are a joy that never disappoints. Even non-Mexicans loved it (including me).
They’re made with a dough similar to what’s used in cream puffs. The dough is piped into long, ridged sticks, fried to crispy perfection, and then rolled in a generous coating of sugar or cinnamon.
It’s the perfect pairing—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness. Add that warm, spiced chocolate and have the dessert of your dreams!
Capirotada
Another showstopper of Mexican holidays—capirotada! Picture slices of slightly crusty bread lovingly layered in a clay pot, then drenched in a luscious piloncillo syrup. Lips-licking goodness!
Each layer of bread is topped with raisins, crunchy nuts, and—here’s the surprise—a sprinkling of salty cheese. Yes, cheese! It’s the element that keeps you coming back for more.
Whether it’s your first time making Capirotada or it’s a dish you’ve grown up with, let it take center stage at your holiday table. It’s a reminder that the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Champurrado
We’ve mentioned champurrado in our previous items, and it’s time for you to learn about this sweet treat, which is also one of my favorites!
This velvety beverage is made with masa (yes, the same corn dough used in tamales), Mexican chocolate, piloncillo (raw sugar), and warm spices like cinnamon and vanilla.
During the chilly holiday season, there’s nothing quite like holding a steaming mug of champurrado! Trust me—your taste buds (and your heart) will thank you.
Ponche Navideño
If the holidays in Mexico had a scent, it would undoubtedly be the intoxicating aroma of Ponche Navideño simmering away on the stove. The traditional Christmas punch.
So, what is it? It’s a steaming infusion of fresh and dried fruits like tejocotes (Mexican hawthorn), guavas, apples, oranges, and prunes, all steeped in a spiced syrup of cinnamon, cloves, and piloncillo.
It’s served to warm, cold hands and cheerful hearts, often ladled straight from a massive pot! Each sip feels like a holiday, sweetened by the love and care that goes into making it.
Horchata
Something about horchata wraps you up in warmth—even when it’s served cold. This creamy, cinnamon-spiced rice drink has a way of making every sip feel like a cherished memory.
It’s one of Mexico’s most beloved beverages, soaked rice blended with cinnamon and sweetened to perfection! Sometimes almonds or a hint of vanilla are added, giving it an extra layer of richness.
When served chilled, especially over ice, it’s a drink that soothes and refreshes, offering the perfect counterbalance to the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican holiday feasts.
Atole
When the cool breeze of the holiday season sets in, there’s nothing quite like cradling a warm mug of atole. It’s like your loved ones gave you warm, cuddly hugs while it’s snowing outside!
Atole begins with simple yet deeply comforting ingredients: masa harina, milk or water, piloncillo (Mexican brown sugar), and a touch of cinnamon and vanilla. They’re gently simmered until they reach the perfect creamy consistency.
Depending on the region, families may enhance it with chocolate, fruit, or even nuts, making every sip uniquely special. The first sip—silky, spiced, and subtly sweet—feels like coming home.
Micheladas
Fancy an ice-cold beer mingling with tangy lime juice, a dash of savory spices, and a fiery kick from hot sauce? You better make some micheladas!
This drink often starts with a salt-rimmed glass, sometimes dusted with chili powder (yep, you read it right), setting the stage for the bold and zesty mix inside.
Talking about uniqueness, this is top-tier! Have you ever expected Worcestershire, soy sauce, or hot sauce to accompany your beer? Wow! I wonder how it tastes!
Rosca de Reyes
Imagine sitting with family and friends, a steaming mug of hot chocolate in hand, as the Rosca de Reyes is placed at the center of the table. I know you couldn’t resist a piece!
Shaped like a crown, it’s adorned with candied fruits that shimmer like jewels, making it as visually striking. It’s also interactive in nature because a tiny Baby Jesus figurine is hidden inside!
The one who finds it hosts the next gathering for Día de la Candelaria—how’s that for festive anticipation? That’s seriously a sign of good luck and more blessings coming!
Mexican Deviled Eggs
Mexican-style deviled eggs are the appetizer you didn’t know you needed for the holidays! These little flavor-packed bites take the traditional deviled egg and amp it up with Mexican flair.
The creamy yolk filling is mixed with lime juice, diced jalapeños, smoky chipotle peppers, and sometimes avocado! They’re then garnished with crispy chorizo slices or a sprinkle of Tajín for that signature kick.
They’re the instant crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy in every bite. Serve these at your next holiday gathering, and watch as they steal the spotlight.
Ceviche
If you’ve ever tasted a spoonful of ceviche, you know why it’s adored in Mexican cuisine. This dish is a sensory masterpiece. Don’t wanna believe me? Just take a look at the photo!
You can do it by marinating tender shrimp or fish in fresh lime juice and mixing it with diced tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sharp red onions, and the heat of fresh chilies.
Try tossing it in sweet mango chunks or avocado; you have a flavor explosion! Serve it, and watch your guests rave about its fresh, zesty charm!
Pollo Adobado
Pollo Adobado is the kind of dish that draws you in before you even take a bite. The heady aroma of chilies, garlic, and spices wafting through the air is enough to make anyone hungry.
The magic starts with the adobo marinade, a rich concoction of dried chilies, garlic, vinegar, and spices like cumin and oregano. The chicken absorbs this marinade overnight, allowing every bite to burst with flavor.
As it roasts or grills, the adobo forms a caramelized coating, locking in the juices and creating a gorgeous, slightly crispy finish. Want to amplify it? Eat it with fluffy rice!
Enfrijoladas
Let me paint you a picture—corn tortillas, warm and tender, bathed in a silky black bean sauce that’s been spiced just right. Sounds divine, yeah?
Topped with crumbled queso fresco, fresh crema, and thin onion slices, they’re as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate. This dish is a Mexican favorite because it’s tradition on a plate.
Fill the tortillas with shredded chicken or keep it vegetarian with just cheese, and you’ve got a dish that adapts to any preference. If you haven’t tasted this slice of Mexican comfort, you’re missing out!
Sopapillas
A texture so airy it feels like biting into a cloud, meet Sopapillas! Crafted from a simple mix of flour, baking powder, and love, these little wonders transform into magical pockets when fried.
With every bite, you’re greeted by a delicate crunch! Traditionally served with a drizzle of honey or dusted with powdered sugar, they strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory!
Sopapillas may be simple, but they have the ability to bring happiness and smiles to the guests! If you’ve never tried them, the holidays are the perfect time to indulge in this delightful tradition.