The Benefits of Using Fresh, Local Ingredients
At Plaza Azteca, we are proud to offer our customers the best Mexican and Latin culinary experience in Bethesda, Maryland. Part of our commitment to fine dining is based on the choice of ingredients. Using fresh, local ingredients not only enhances the flavor of our dishes, but also provides multiple benefits for health and the environment. Superior Flavor The freshness of the ingredients is a key factor that determines the flavor of the dishes. Ingredients that have been recently harvested usually have a more intense and vibrant flavor profile. At Plaza Azteca, our fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos are made with vegetables and herbs that are sourced from local producers. This means that every bite you enjoy is full of freshness and authentic flavor. By choosing seasonal products, we also ensure that our dishes reflect the best that nature has to offer at every time of the year. Optimal Nutrition Fresh ingredients are not only tastier, but they are also more nutritious. Foods that are stored for long periods or have been transported from far away can lose essential nutrients. By using local and seasonal ingredients, we ensure that our dishes are full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This not only benefits your health, but also allows you to enjoy a richer and more satisfying culinary experience. Supporting the Local Economy Buying fresh and local ingredients is not only good for our kitchen, but also for the community. By working with local farmers and producers, we are supporting the local economy and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices. This creates a positive cycle that benefits our community and helps preserve the environment. Lower Carbon Footprint Using local ingredients also reduces the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Products that travel long distances generate greenhouse gas emissions, while local foods require less transportation and therefore contribute to a healthier environment. At Plaza Azteca, we take pride in doing our part to care for the planet by choosing ingredients that come from our immediate surroundings. Connection with the Community By using fresh, local ingredients, we create a stronger bond with our community. We like to know where our food comes from and share that story with our customers. Every dish we serve at Plaza Azteca is a reflection of our dedication to quality and commitment to sustainability. At Plaza Azteca, using fresh, local ingredients is essential to offering you an unforgettable culinary experience. Not only does it allow us to serve you high-quality dishes, but it also contributes to your well-being and the well-being of our community. We invite you to visit us and enjoy authentic Mexican and Latin cuisine, made with the best ingredients the region has to offer. Order online and discover the difference fresh ingredients make in every bite!
Read MoreMexican Cuisine and Health: Myths and Facts
Mexican cuisine is one of the richest and most diverse in the world, full of vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations. However, it is often associated with myths that portray it as unhealthy. In this article, we will demystify some of these beliefs and explore how you can enjoy Mexican cuisine in a healthy way, highlighting nutritious dishes that you can find at Plaza Azteca. Myth 1: Mexican food is high in calories and fat It is common to think that Mexican dishes are excessively caloric and fatty, but this is not necessarily true. While there are preparations that can be heavier, the essence of Mexican cuisine lies in the use of fresh and natural ingredients. For example, fajitas are an excellent option that combines lean proteins such as chicken or beef with fresh vegetables. By opting for a moderate portion of guacamole and corn tortillas, you can enjoy a delicious and balanced dish. Myth 2: Tacos are unhealthy Tacos have been unfairly stigmatized. The variety of tacos that can be found in Mexican cuisine allows for multiple healthy options. For example, fish tacos, prepared with grilled fish and accompanied by fresh vegetables and light sauces, are a nutritious and low-calorie option. At Plaza Azteca, we offer tacos that stand out for their freshness and flavor, proving that you can eat well without giving up pleasure. Myth 3: Mexican cuisine is only based on carbohydrates Although it is true that Mexican cuisine includes a variety of carbohydrates, such as tortillas and rice, it is also characterized by its richness in proteins and vegetables. Dishes such as enchiladas can be made with chicken, beans and a variety of vegetables, making them a complete and balanced option. By choosing tomato- and chili-based sauces, you can add extra nutrients and antioxidants to your meal. Myth 4: Ingredients are unhealthy Another common myth is that the ingredients used in Mexican cuisine are unhealthy. However, many of these ingredients, such as beans, corn, chilis, and fresh herbs, are highly nutritious and beneficial to your health. For example, beans are an excellent source of fiber and plant-based protein, while chilis can help speed up your metabolism. At Plaza Azteca, we make sure to use top-quality, fresh, and healthy ingredients in each of our dishes. Enjoying Mexican Cuisine in a Healthy Way To enjoy Mexican cuisine in a healthy way, it is important to opt for options that include lean proteins, abundant vegetables, and fresh sauces. Here are some recommendations of dishes that you can find at Plaza Azteca: Chicken or Beef Fajitas: Rich in protein and accompanied by sautéed peppers and onions, perfect for a balanced meal. Fish Tacos: Prepared with fresh fish and vegetables, they are a light and flavorful option. Bean Enchiladas: A vegetarian option rich in protein and fiber, which will also fill you with energy. Seafood Ceviche: A fresh and healthy option, ideal as an appetizer or main dish, packed with nutrients. Guacamole: Made with fresh avocados, it is an excellent source of healthy fats, perfect to accompany your dishes. Mexican cuisine is not only delicious, but it can also be nutritious and healthy. At Plaza Azteca, we are committed to offering you the best of Mexican and Latin haute cuisine, using fresh ingredients and recipes that highlight flavor without compromising health. Come visit us or order online to discover authentic Mexican cuisine, and demystify those myths once and for all!
Read MoreHow to Celebrate a Birthday in Mexican Style at Plaza Azteca
Celebrate your birthday with all the flavor and joy of Mexican culture at Plaza Azteca! If you’re looking for a unique and festive way to commemorate another year of life, here are some ideas inspired by the vibrant Mexican tradition. From delicious menus to colorful decorations and fun activities, your party will be unforgettable! Delicious Menu Food is one of the pillars of any Mexican celebration. At Plaza Azteca, we offer a varied menu that your guests are sure to love. Here are some suggestions: Fajitas: Our famous beef, chicken or vegetable fajitas are perfect to share and enjoy as a group. Don’t forget the fresh tortillas and homemade salsas! Enchiladas and Tacos: Offer a selection of red and green enchiladas, as well as carne asada, chicken al pastor or fish tacos. Let each guest choose their favorite. Seafood: Surprise your friends with seafood options like fresh ceviche or garlic shrimp. The flavors of the ocean are always a hit at parties. Traditional Desserts: End the meal with a sweet touch. Try our churros with chocolate or homemade flan, a delicious way to celebrate! Drinks: Complete the experience with a variety of typical drinks, from agua fresca to margaritas and Mexican cocktails. Cheers! Colorful Decorations Decoration is essential to create a festive atmosphere. Here are some ideas to decorate your party: Banners and Papel Picado: Adorn the space with colorful pennants and papel picado. These elements are emblematic of Mexican celebrations and add a festive touch. Centerpieces: Use bright flowers like cempasúchil (the flower of the dead) or sunflowers in colorful vases. You can also incorporate traditional elements like small piñatas. Themed Dessert Table: Create a dessert table decorated with Mexican sweets, such as alegrías, marzipan, and sugar skulls, which will also be a visual attraction. Fun Activities To make your party even more special, consider these activities: Piñata: No Mexican party is complete without a piñata. Choose a theme you like and let guests have fun trying to break it. Fill it with candy and surprises! Dancing and Music: Create a playlist with Mexican music, from mariachi to salsa. If possible, hire a mariachi group to play live and liven up the party. Photobooth: Set up an area with Mexican props such as sombreros, maracas, and fake mustaches. Your guests can take fun photos to remember the day! Traditional Games: Organize a tournament of games such as “Lotería” or “La Oca,” which are classics at Mexican parties and are great for all types of audiences. Celebration at Plaza Azteca At Plaza Azteca, we not only offer an exceptional menu, but also a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional customer service. Our team will be happy to help you organize your celebration, from choosing the menu to custom decoration. So don’t think twice! Celebrate your birthday in Mexican style at Plaza Azteca. Come and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience, full of flavor and joy. For more information and reservations, visit our website Plaza Azteca and make sure your party is a resounding success. We look forward to seeing you!
Read More5 Mexican Traditions You Should Know
Mexico is a country rich in cultural traditions that have endured throughout the centuries and that reflect the diversity and history of its people. At Plaza Azteca, we are proud to not only offer the best of Mexican and Latin haute cuisine, but also to pay homage to these traditions that are a fundamental part of our identity. Below, we will explore five Mexican traditions that you should know and how they are reflected in the food and atmosphere of our restaurant in Bethesda, MD. Day of the Dead Day of the Dead is one of the most emblematic traditions in Mexico, celebrated on November 1 and 2. During this holiday, families honor their loved ones who have passed away with decorated altars, food offerings, flowers, and photographs. At Plaza Azteca, we pay homage to this tradition through our festive décor and a special menu that includes typical dishes such as pan de muerto and sugar skulls. We believe that remembering our ancestors is a way to keep the connection to our roots alive. Las Posadas Las Posadas are celebrations that take place from December 16 to 24, where families and friends gather to recreate Mary and Joseph’s journey in search of a place to spend the night before the birth of Jesus. These festivities include singing, piñatas, and of course, delicious food. At Plaza Azteca, we offer a cozy and festive atmosphere during the Christmas season, where you can enjoy traditional dishes such as tamales and Christmas punch. It is the perfect place to experience the essence of Las Posadas with your loved ones. La Guelaguetza Originally from the state of Oaxaca, the Guelaguetza is a celebration that pays tribute to the cultural diversity and traditions of Mexico’s indigenous communities. This holiday includes dances, music, and of course, a rich variety of typical dishes. At Plaza Azteca, we offer a selection of Oaxacan dishes, such as mole and tlayudas, that represent the gastronomic richness of this region. We invite you to experience Guelaguetza through our authentic flavors. Fiesta de la Candelaria Celebrated on February 2, the Fiesta de la Candelaria is a special day to honor the Virgin of Candelaria. On this holiday, it is common for families who found the “child” in the Rosca de Reyes to prepare tamales and atole to share with their loved ones. At Plaza Azteca, we join this tradition by offering a variety of tamales and atole, providing a special touch to our menu that will make you feel at home. September 16 — Independence Day Mexican Independence Day, celebrated on September 16, is one of the most important holidays in the country. Celebrations include parades, music, and, of course, a hearty dinner with typical dishes. At Plaza Azteca, we host special events to commemorate this date, where you can enjoy authentic Mexican dishes such as chiles en nogada and pozole. Come and celebrate with us as we share the pride of being part of this beautiful culture. Mexican traditions are a vital part of our cultural identity and are reflected in every corner of Plaza Azteca. From our décor to our dishes, every detail is thought out to celebrate and share Mexico’s rich heritage. We invite you to visit us and experience these traditions through our food and atmosphere. Whether you come to celebrate a holiday or simply enjoy dinner with friends and family, at Plaza Azteca you will always find a place where traditions come to life. We look forward to seeing you!
Read MoreShopping Guide: Essential Ingredients for Cooking Mexican
If you’ve ever enjoyed our delicious fajitas, enchiladas, or tacos and wondered how to replicate those flavors in your own kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of essential ingredients that can’t be missing from your pantry if you want to venture into cooking Mexican dishes at home. With these ingredients, you can try to recreate some of our most popular dishes and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in the comfort of your own home. Tortillas Tortillas are the base of many Mexican dishes. They can be made from corn or flour, and are perfect for tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Look for fresh tortillas at your local store, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try making them from scratch! Dried Chiles Dried chiles, such as ancho, guajillo, and pasilla, are essential in Mexican cuisine. They add a deep flavor and a hint of heat to many sauces and stews. You can rehydrate and blend them to make homemade sauces or add them to your dishes. Spices Spices are essential to bring your meals to life. Some of the most common in Mexican cuisine are: -Cumin: Provides an earthy and warm flavor. -Oregano: Often used in sauces and stews. -Black pepper: A staple that can’t be missed. -Dried cilantro: Perfect for adding a fresh touch to your dishes. Tomatoes and Onion Tomatoes are the base of many sauces and stews. You can use fresh or canned tomatoes. Onion, on the other hand, is a key ingredient that adds flavor and aroma to almost any dish. Don’t forget to have both white and red onion on hand for different preparations. Garlic Garlic is an essential ingredient used in numerous Mexican recipes. Its intense flavor enhances any stew, sauce or marinade. You can use fresh or powdered garlic, depending on your preference. Beans Beans, whether black, pinto, or otherwise, are a staple in the Mexican diet. They are great for making refried beans, in salads, or as a side dish in your dishes. Meats and Seafood If you want to replicate our famous fajitas or tacos, you will need high-quality meats. You can opt for chicken, beef, pork, or even seafood like shrimp and fish. Make sure to marinate the meats with spices and juices for an authentic flavor. Cheese Cheese is a key ingredient in many Mexican dishes. Look for cheeses like queso fresco, queso Oaxaca, or queso cotija to add that creamy, flavorful touch we all love. Sour Cream and Guacamole Sour cream and guacamole are the perfect complement to many dishes. You can make your own guacamole with avocado, onion, cilantro, lime, and salt. Sour cream is great for adding a creamy touch to your tacos and enchiladas. Lemons and Limes Fresh lemon or lime juice is essential for adding a touch of freshness to your dishes. Use them in sauces, stews, or just to dress up your tacos. Now that you have your list of essential ingredients for cooking Mexican at home, it’s time to get to work! At Plaza Azteca, we are passionate about sharing the best of Mexican cuisine, and we hope this article inspires you to experiment in your own kitchen. Don’t forget that the key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, just like we do at our restaurant. Good luck and bon appetit! If you want to enjoy these authentic flavors without having to cook, we invite you to visit us at Plaza Azteca in Bethesda, MD! You can also order online through our website.
Read MoreHow to Pick the Perfect Dish for Your Mood
Welcome to Plaza Azteca, where Mexican and Latin haute cuisine meets your mood! We know that food can be an extension of how you feel, so we’ve created a fun guide to help you pick the perfect dish for your mood. Get ready to satisfy your cravings and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience! Happy Like a Taco If you’re feeling cheerful and in the mood to celebrate, there’s nothing better than fresh tacos! At Plaza Azteca, our tacos are the perfect choice to share laughter and good times. Choose from chicken, grilled beef, or fish, and accompany them with our homemade sauces. Every bite will take you to a state of total happiness! Need a Hug (Warm and Comforting!) When the world is a little heavy on you, it’s time to reach for something comforting. Our famous fajitas are like a hug on a plate. Juicy and full of flavor, they are served with sautéed peppers and onions, ready to be wrapped in a warm tortilla. There’s nothing like enjoying a fajita to lift your spirits! A Touch of Adventure If you feel that spark of adventure and want to try something new, our enchiladas are the ideal choice. Whether you prefer meat, chicken or vegetables, each enchilada comes bathed in a tasty sauce that will make your palate thrill. Dare to explore the flavors of Mexico and choose this option full of surprises. Seafood for the Soul When you feel relaxed and at peace, take the opportunity to enjoy our delicious seafood dishes. From fresh ceviche to grilled shrimp, seafood is perfect for those days when you just want to savor life. Let the flavor of the ocean envelop you! Fiesta Day If you are celebrating a special day, our burritos are the perfect choice for a party on your plate. With a variety of toppings to choose from, you can customize your burrito to your liking. Perfect for sharing, but can also be enjoyed solo if the party is with just yourself! A Touch of Nostalgia Sometimes, you just want to go back to the flavors of childhood. If that’s your mood, our quesadillas are the answer. With melted cheese and freshly made tortillas, these classics are perfect for reconnecting with those happy memories. Don’t forget to order a side of guacamole to make the experience even more delicious! A Moment of Reflection If you need time to yourself and want to enjoy a quiet meal, opt for a delicious soup. Our tortilla soup, with its mix of flavors and textures, is perfect for those moments of introspection. Accompany it with some crusty bread and enjoy the moment. A Sweet Adventure Feeling a little naughty? Then don’t forget to save room for one of our desserts. A creamy flan or tres leches cake is the perfect finishing touch to any meal. A sweet ending always brightens the mood! At Plaza Azteca, we understand that every moment is unique, and so is your mood. No matter how you feel, there is always a perfect dish waiting to delight you. Come visit us or order online and let our flavors take you on a culinary journey that will brighten your day. We look forward to seeing you at Plaza Azteca, where every bite is a celebration!
Read MoreHow to Pair Wines with Mexican Dishes
Mexican cuisine is known for its richness of flavors, colors, and traditions. Every dish tells a story, and to enhance that experience, a good wine can be the perfect complement. At Plaza Azteca, we pride ourselves on offering the best of Mexican and Latin cuisine, and today we want to share some tips on how to pair wines with our delicious dishes. Get to know the flavors of Mexican food Mexican cuisine is diverse and encompasses a wide range of flavors, from spicy to sweet. When choosing a wine, it is essential to consider the flavor profile of the dish. For example, the intense and spicy flavors of fajitas require a wine that can balance and highlight those nuances. White wines for light dishes White wines are an excellent choice to accompany lighter dishes. If you decide to enjoy our fresh seafood or a fresh salad, a dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, can be the ideal companion. These wines complement the freshness of the fish and provide acidity that cuts through the fat, enhancing the flavors of the sea. Rosés for a versatile touch Rosés are versatile and can pair well with a variety of dishes. They tend to have a fruity and fresh flavor profile, making them an excellent choice for chicken tacos or carne asada. At Plaza Azteca, our chicken enchiladas could benefit from a soft rosé, which complements both the flavor of the chicken and the sauces used. Robust reds for intense flavors When it comes to more robust dishes, such as our famous burritos or a delicious carne asada, a full-bodied red wine is the way to go. Varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec have the structure and tannins needed to balance the richness of these dishes. A good red can enhance the culinary experience, making each bite even more pleasurable. Sparkling Wines for Celebrations Sparkling wines, such as Prosecco or Cava, are perfect for celebrations and can add a festive touch to any meal. If you’re enjoying a meal with friends and family at our restaurant, consider a sparkling wine to toast with and enjoy dishes like our ceviches or guacamole, which benefit from the wine’s freshness and bubbles. Don’t Forget the Spice Spiciness is a common element in many Mexican dishes, and it’s crucial to choose a wine that won’t be overwhelmed by the heat. Opt for wines with a hint of sweetness, such as a Riesling or Gewürztraminer, which can help balance the spice and enhance the flavors. Experiment and Enjoy Finally, remember that the best way to find out which wine pairs best with your favorite dishes is to experiment. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations. At Plaza Azteca, we encourage you to be adventurous and discover new ways to enjoy our cuisine. Pairing wine with Mexican dishes can enrich your dining experience and open up a world of flavors. At Plaza Azteca, we invite you to try our delicious options while enjoying the selection of wines that perfectly complement each bite. Come visit us or order online and discover how a good wine can enhance the authentic experience of Mexican cuisine!
Read MoreChristmas Traditions in Mexico and Latin America
Christmas is a time of celebration, togetherness, and traditions that vary from one country to another in Latin America. From Mexico to the Southern Cone, each nation brings its own flavor and customs to this long-awaited holiday. At Plaza Azteca Restaurant, we are proud to offer a little piece of these traditions through our dishes. Join us on this journey through Christmas customs in Mexico and Latin America, where gastronomy plays a fundamental role. Mexico: Posadas and Christmas Eve Dinner Christmas in Mexico is celebrated in a special way, beginning with the Posadas, which take place from December 16 to 24. This tradition represents the journey of Mary and Joseph in search of lodging. Families gather to recreate this search, singing Christmas carols and asking for lodging. Each night, a different house is visited, where piñatas, music, and, of course, typical dishes are enjoyed. At Christmas Eve Dinner, celebrated on the night of December 24, families gather to enjoy a dinner that includes dishes such as roast turkey, cod a la vizcaína, and romeritos. Typical desserts include buñuelos and the traditional Christmas punch, a hot drink made with fruits and spices. Guatemala: The Burning of the Devil In Guatemala, Christmas is celebrated with unique customs, beginning with the “Burning of the Devil” on December 7. This tradition symbolizes the cleansing of the home and life, where rag dolls representing the devil are burned. Families decorate their homes with lights and ornaments, creating a festive atmosphere. For Christmas Eve dinner, it is common to find dishes such as chicken tamale, stuffed turkey, and the famous fruit punch. Desserts usually include the delicious buñuelo and the famous “kak’ik,” a traditional Guatemalan soup. Peru: Christmas Eve Dinner and Panettone In Peru, Christmas celebrations have a strong focus on family. Christmas Eve Dinner, celebrated on December 24, includes typical dishes such as roast turkey, apple salad, and the famous panettone, a sweet cake that has become a symbol of Peruvian Christmas. Families also often attend the Misa de Gallo, which is celebrated at midnight. During this holiday, Peruvians share the joy of Christmas with friends and family, enjoying good food and company. Colombia: The Novena and Ajiaco In Colombia, Christmas begins on December 16 with the Novena de Aguinaldos, a series of family gatherings that include prayers, songs, and carols. During these nights, typical foods such as ajiaco, a delicious chicken soup with potatoes and corn, and natilla, a dessert made from milk and sugar, are shared. The celebration culminates on December 24 with Christmas Eve dinner, where lechón, buñuelo and the famous tamale are served. Christmas traditions in Mexico and Latin America are a reflection of the cultural richness of the region. Each country celebrates with unique customs and dishes that fill this time of year with flavor and joy. At Plaza Azteca, we want you to experience these traditions through our food, whether you enjoy it in our restaurant or order online. We invite you to celebrate Christmas with us and discover the authentic flavor of Mexican and Latin haute cuisine. Happy holidays!
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Traditional Recipes to Prepare at Home
At Plaza Azteca, we are proud to offer an authentic experience of Mexican and Latin haute cuisine. We want to share with you a little piece of our cuisine, and that is why we have decided to share three easy recipes for some of our most popular dishes. Prepare them at home and delight your loved ones with incredible flavors! 1. Chicken Fajitas Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, cut into strips 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips 1 green bell pepper, cut into strips 1 large onion, cut into strips 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon paprika Salt and pepper to taste Flour or corn tortillas Instructions: In a large bowl, mix the chicken, bell peppers, onion, olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and vegetable mixture and cook, stirring, until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or in the microwave. Serve the fajitas hot. You can serve them with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. 2. Swiss Enchiladas Ingredients: 12 corn tortillas 500g cooked, shredded chicken 1 cup green salsa 1 cup sour cream 1 cup grated Monterrey Jack cheese Chopped onion for garnish Vegetable oil Instructions: Heat a little oil in a pan and dip the tortillas for a few seconds until soft. Drain off excess oil. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and roll up. Place the enchiladas in a baking dish. Pour the green salsa over the enchiladas and add the sour cream and grated cheese on top. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped onion and serve hot. 3. Fish Tacos Ingredients: 400g fish fillet (like tilapia or cod) 1 cup flour 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper to taste Oil for frying Corn tortillas Shredded cabbage Avocado salsa or your favorite salsa Instructions: Mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cut the fish into strips and coat each strip with the flour mixture. Heat enough oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish strips until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Heat the tortillas in a skillet or in the microwave. Assemble your tacos by placing the fried fish on top of the tortillas, and add shredded cabbage and avocado salsa to taste. Now that you have these delicious recipes in your hands, it’s the perfect time to experiment in the kitchen and enjoy the flavors of Plaza Azteca at home. Remember that cooking is a form of love and sharing, so invite them all to your table! Don’t forget to visit our restaurant in Bethesda, MD, for the full experience. Bon appetit!
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