Traveling to Mexico is one of my most favorite things to do, but if I’m not heading down there for some fun in the sun, and I’m craving some of the yummy Mexican dishes I so love, I dig out a few of my fav recipes and plan a party for my BFFs’!

When it comes to choosing the theme for a party, a flavourful Mexican fiesta is often a popular choice. From Mexico’s signature mole to tasty tacos, this country is bursting with savory dishes that are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds – from mild to magnificent.

When it comes to choosing the theme for a party, a flavourful Mexican fiesta is often a popular choice. From Mexico’s signature mole to tasty tacos, this country is bursting with savory dishes that are sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds – from mild to magnificent.

Instead of opting for the traditional salsa and guacamole, try one of these four authentic recipes from some of Mexico’s most gastronomic cities at your next bash to delight guests with something a little unexpected.

1. Birria from Guadalajara

Known as the land of tequila and mariachi, Guadalajara is a city rich in history and traditions. One of the city’s signature dishes served at celebrations such as weddings is birria or wedding roast, a traditional dish that’s often made with goat meat, or can be substituted with beef, veal or pork. It is also widely known to cure hangovers, making it a popular brunch dish for the morning after!

Try serving this Birria recipe at your next gathering!

2. Chiles en Nogada from Puebla

The streets and flavors of this Mexican city honor its nickname Puebla de las Angeles or “the city of angels.” Created to celebrate Mexico’s independence, Chiles en Nogada is a dish native to Puebla symbolizing the red, white and green colors of the Mexican flag. Poblano peppers are stuffed with a ground meat (usually beef or pork) along with dried fruits and nuts, served with a cream sauce made of pureed walnuts and topped with pomegranate seeds. Traditionally served in August, during walnut and pomegranate season, this dish is popular year-round and makes the perfect addition to any entertaining menu!

Try this traditional recipe for Chiles en Nogada from Puebla.

3. Bocoles from the Huasteca Region

These small round dough treats called “bocoles” hail from the Huasteca region of Mexico and are a traditional Mexican street food, typically served for breakfast or as a snack with coffee. The Husateca region is formed by several states, including Veracruz, Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosi, and Hidalgo which has influenced the rich gastronomy of the area. Made from corn flour, bocoles are filled with a variety of tasty ingredients including cheese, picadillo, salsa, beans, or cooked eggs.

Try this version of Bocoles from the Huasteca Region.

4. Panucho from Merida

Merida is known for its beaches, Mayan ruins, and its prominent African, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern influences that make for a very distinctive cuisine. Panucho is a Yucatan specialty originating from Merida where a street food vendor named “Don Hucho” famously served bread with beans and a boiled egg to passing travelers. As the dish evolved, the bread was replaced with tortillas topped with refried black beans, chopped cabbage, pulled chicken or turkey, tomato, pickled red onion, avocado, and pickled jalapeño pepper.

Try this recipe for Panucho from Merida.

So put on your party hat/sombrero and start cooking up one or all of these great Mexican recipes, it’ll be like having a little taste of Mexico in your home.