What is it about Tex-Mex food that is so appealing? Depending on whom you ask, you will find a variety of responses. Generally, this will also closely parallel what the person happens to think makes great cuisine of this nature. Mexican foods are a delicious and wholesome cuisine, and the definitions of authentic often clash with conventional and new. However you look at the big picture, no one will deny the delicious benefits of choosing this “south of the border” cuisine for your own.

Authentic Mexican foods are extremely healthy and filled with chilies, corn, and meat. However, add in a few of the northern favorites and you have cheeses, sour creams, and a lot of frying involved with delicious Tex-Mex food. The line between authentic and mixed cuisine becomes blurred, and opinions will vary depending on who you ask and what they believe.

Tex-Mex food is, by definition, a scrumptious mix of authentic Mexican foods and southern United States foods. Most commonly, this is cuisine that has a strong home in Texas and even some of the neighboring states. In fact, much of Mexico can be found serving this mouth watering cuisine.

However, you will find that some people have interesting thoughts on what Tex-Mex food really is…

Anything that is “chicken fried” can be considered this type of cuisine. Have you ever dipped in an egg mix and then coated in a seasoned flour mixture a steak, a cube steak, or even a zucchini? Well, this is often considered “chicken fried”. Serve with a side order of mashed potatoes and some favorite vegetable dish and you have a meal fit for a king!

Anything that is served with jalapeno peppers is considered this type of cuisine. One thing is for sure, jalapeno peppers are a vital part of anything you would consider fit to be called Tex-Mex food. That spicy tang of sweetness is something that makes any meal complete, and even various types of peppers will be a unique flavor accenting any dish.

Anything with a tortilla involved is this type of cuisine. Tortillas are a great addition to any meal; you can even use tortillas for desserts! This is one versatile food staple that is healthier than bread and so much healthier. Even tortilla wraps have invaded our lives and are available in fast food establishments around the globe.

Regardless of how you define it, this is one type of cuisine that will be with us for a lifetime. One thing I hear people ask a lot is, “How do I know the difference between authentic Mexican foods and this other more Americanized cuisine?” The truth is that, sometimes, it is more difficult than ever to distinguish between the two.

One would like to think you find traditional and authentic foods in Mexican food, but the truth is that this is not always a perfect way to tell the difference. Tex-Mex food is more popular than ever, and you will find that the line has blurred between authentic and modernized. What has not changed is the delicious benefits you get when you choose this cuisine for yourself and your family.