Tex-Mex ciusine is a name used to describe dishes that are found in the state of Texas that is primarily American. It blends available foods in the United States with traditional Mexican food. Some of the Tex-Mex foods may differ from actual Mexican dishes, but are still referred to Mexican dishes in Texas. People who live outside of Texas sometimes refer to Tex-Mex as Southwestern food.
Another difference that separates Tex-Mex dishes is the way the foods are prepared. The use of spices and sauces are different from Mexico. Also the dishes usually have more meat and fewer beans. The dishes are influenced by the southern state of Chihuahua, which is also known for their dishes having more meat.
The foods are usually named the same as the dishes in Mexico. Burritos, chimichangas, tacos, and others consist of the same ingredients. The reason it is different is by the green chile and other small details. You may also find different items on the menus such as fish tacos and shrimp enchiladas.
Some Mexican dishes that have a different taste in Tex-Mex include chorizo. It is a sausage that is spicy, being seasoned with red chile and garlic. It is a food that can be served at breakfast. The Tex-Mex chorizo is said to taste different by its spice blend. Tortillas in Tex-Mex cuisine are also different. The tortillas are usually more thick and less chewy then tortillas found in other places. Posole is a stew that Tex-Mex has put their twist into. Tex-Mex
style has many green chiles added to it, which makes it a lot different than the traditional dish.
Salsa picante is a thin sauce with pureed red peppers, onions, and tomatoes with added spices. The spices are similar to others that you would find in typical Tex-Mex dishes. The chili sauce added is also similar to both Tex-Mex style and Louisiana hot sauce. Picante sauce is very common and is an added condiment to add an extra punch of heat to any dish.
Even the salsa is a bit different in the Tex-Mex style. Typical salsa will include tomatoes, chiles, onions, and other spices. In Tex-Mex cuisine, the salsa has a large amount of cilantro added.
Whatever restaurant you go to, you are likely to have chile sauce on top of your dish. If you are not used to the hotness, you might have to take it slow. Start with small foods like salsa. You will get used to the strength and before you know it, you will be buying your own chile to create dishes from your home. The chile can be sold throughout the year and can be stored easily in the freezer. You will be able to enjoy a touch of Tex-Mex style cuisine with your Mexican food favorites.
