Mexican Food to Go!

Mexican Food Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:45:00 +0000

This week has been an extremely fun and interesting week looking at the deliciousness of Mexican desserts. Blending cultures is nothing new for the inhabitants of Mexico, and the results are always an amazing touch of originality combined with wonderful.

Mexican desserts and Mexican candy has always been a time-honored tradition in Mexico. If you have yet to experience this delectable flavor of Mexico, you have no idea what you are missing!

Mexican desserts blend together sweet elements and hot elements to create a unique sensation appreciated by any mouth. Whether you love the texture or the flavor, Mexican desserts will surely please. Oh yes, do not forget the amazing smell as you are making a wondrous Mexican dessert for the whole family.

Mexican candy is more than just another part of the Mexican food legacy. Mexican candy is sweet, delicious, and simply a fabulous piece of art. Imagine tasting the best in Mexican chocolate or even appreciating the texture of corn-flavored candy. Yes, I did say corn-flavored candy!

There are actually holidays celebrating the sweetness of the culture. Having edible candies is one thing, but you have to truly experience Mexican sweetness to appreciate what you have.

Tex Mex To Go provides you with a delicious touch of Mexican history with each sweet taste you try. Whether in a cup of hot cocoa or simply trying our recipe of the week (Mexican fried ice cream), you will explore your own possibilities as you delve into Mexico’s past, present, and future.

15% off Mexican Food and Gift Products

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 20:42:00 +0000

If there is anything I love more than great tasting Tejano salsa it is saving money when I buy this delectable dish. Tex Mex To Go has a great sale going on right now. If you have ever wanted to taste our delicious salsa, this is the time to shop!

With 15% off Mexican food and good products at Tex Mex To Go, you will discover that you get a great tasting dish that is suitable for yourself or gift giving at prices that cannot be beat. This is the time to give us a try, but if you have already tried our Tejano salsa and just wanna stock up for emergencies, you are in luck!

Take a look at a couple Mexican food and gifts products you will find at 15% off!

Mexican Chocolate Fiesta

We keep hearing of the healthy benefits of chocolate...of course we had to oblige! New on the chocolate scene are these succulent, spice-laced bars that will excite any lover of all things chocolate!

Mexican Tortilla Server / Warmer 8"

The best tortilla warmer on this side of the Rio Grande!

These attractive and indestructable warmers will keep your tortillas warm throughout a meal or buffet.

Place the warmer in the microwave with frozen tortillas, defrost, add lid and serve.

How about a 10 inch tortilla warmer for tortilla wraps?

Luggage Tags, Texas Theme

Find your luggage anywhere!

The Texas state luggage tags are approximately 5.5 inches by 5.5 inches.

The margarita glass and the cowboy boot are approximately 5.5 inches high and 4.5 inches wide at the widest point.

Sturdy with a name and address/window slot on the backside.

The Perfect Mexican Food Gift Basket

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 20:39:00 +0000

I am a huge fan of gift baskets. They are adorable, they are affordable, they are attractive, they are simplistic, but most importantly, Mexican food gift baskets are absolutely delicious (and good for you too)!

There are many ways to get the perfect Mexican food gift baskets you crave. How you get the gift basket is as important as what is in the gift baskets. Tex-Mex To Go offers you the opportunity to get the best gift baskets without spending a lot of time or money.

Whether you purchase our ready-to-use Mexican food gift baskets or choose to use a few of our ingredients in the creation of your own masterpieces, you will discover that each Mexican food gift basket has a taste all of its own.

Tejano salsa is our choice of salsa. Both delicious and healthy, Tejano salsa can be purchased in a gift basket created by Tex Mex To Go, or you can use our absolutely fabulous Tejano salsa to get a look and taste all of your own creation. The good news is that you get to choose what fits in your life (and budget).

A salsa caddy is another of the must haves when it comes to Mexican food gift baskets. A salsa caddy allows you to serve the salsa in an attractive bowl that looks like authentic Mexican décor. Great for your own gift baskets (or ours).

When it comes to Mexican food gift baskets, Tex Mex To Go stands out above the competition. You will discover our customer service will attract you while our great tasting Tejano salsa will keep you coming back for more.

Mexican Fried Ice Cream: A History

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 20:36:00 +0000

Ice cream has been around for quite sometime. Most commonly attributed to the Chinese as early as 2900 BC, ice cream is a delicious treat most commonly served as a dessert dish. Marco Polo can actually be thanked for giving the Italians ice cream, which in turn, found its way into popular culture of the known world.

French-style ice cream is generally made with egg yolks giving it a rich, delectable flavor appreciated by many. On the other hand, there is a Philadelphia-style ice cream made with egg whites only or no eggs at all. This is definitely an interesting dish when you start comparing popular flavors historically and modernly around the globe.

Mexican ice cream is no different!

Mexican fried ice cream is a popular dessert recipe that is not quite the traditional Mexican food of the culture. However, that does not make Mexican ice cream any less popular. In fact, Mexican ice cream is more popular than ever.

There are generally two types of fried ice cream: Mexican fried ice cream and Chinese fried ice cream. The same basic principles are utilized in both dishes, but you will discover that what is different is the coating. In Mexican fried ice cream corn flakes or cookie crumbs are used; in Chinese fried ice cream a tempura is often used.

Mexican ice cream did not start rearing its creamy head until the late 19th century. How did it start? Where did it come from? Who knows! What I do know is that Mexican ice cream is positively, absolutely magnificent.

Recipe of the Week: Mexican Fried Ice Cream

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 02:34:00 +0000

When I head down to my favorite Mexican food restaurant, one of my most anticipated dishes is dessert. I have a love of Mexican food; I have a love of ice cream. Combine my two loves and I can guarantee you I am in my own slice of heaven.

Mexican fried ice cream is an extremely popular dish – definitely in my family. Both creamy, fried, and delicious, Mexican fried ice cream is easy to make in your own home any time you feel a craving.

Mexican Fried Ice Cream Recipe

Ingredients:
2 cups Corn Flakes, crushed
20 oz chocolate chip ice cream
3½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1½ tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon water
2 eggs
4 flour tortillas
Oil for deep-frying
Cinnamon mixed with sugar for garnish
Whipped cream for garnish
4 maraschino cherries for garnish

Preparation: Divide the ice cream into 4 balls. Freeze them solid, which will take around 2 hours. Combine the Corn Flakes, sugar, and cinnamon and divide between 2 pie plates. Beat the eggs with the water. Roll each ice cream ball in the Corn Flakes mixture then dip the coated ball in the egg wash. Roll the ball in the other Corn Flake mixture, pressing the coating on firmly. Freeze these balls for 5 or 6 hours. Shape the tortillas like hourglasses by cutting off curved slices from two opposite sides, so that the ice cream can rest on one end and the other end can be a decorative fan.

Heat the oil in a deep fryer or wok. Place the tortilla between two large spoons, with the smaller one on top. The base of the tortilla should be in the bigger spoon to form a basket. Rest the other part of the tortilla on the spoon handle. Deep-fry it until crisp. Drain and then sprinkle with some cinnamon sugar.

Deep-fry the ice cream balls for 30 to 45 seconds. Place each tortilla in a large-stemmed glass, with the fan part vertically above the glass. Place the ice cream ball in the base of the tortilla. Top with whipped cream and a cherry. (Serves 4)

Enjoying the Taste of Chipotle

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 00:26:00 +0000

The weekend is almost here!

Yes, as the weekend nears, visions of relaxation and comfort plagued the mind. Even if you are starting to mow the lawn or even firing up the grill, there are some quick tips that ensure that if you add chipotles to the menu that you and yours stay safe and healthy…

Keep those cutting boards sanitized!

When it comes to cleaning the kitchen, one item often left forgotten is the cutting board. Cutting boards should be sanitized along with the cabinets and sinks. Neglecting the cutting board can cause a variety of illnesses, and everyone knows cross contamination is bad. How you sanitize your cutting board will depend a great deal on the type of cutting board you own. A good rule of thumb is to use a good soap and water, but you will find that sanitizing the cutting board starts with knowing what works best for you.

One of the great things about chipotles is that they are hearty. But that does not mean you should neglect storing your chipotles at the appropriate temperature. If you have a chipotle sauce (absolutely delicious by the way), you should keep it refrigerated. Dried chipotles can actually be stored at room temperature in a dark, non-damp location. How you store your chipotles will depend on the type and style of chipotle you purchase.

Always remember that chipotles are best just the way you like them. But if you are adventurous, try a chipotle or two in ways you never knew you never knew. For instance, this week’s recipe offers a delicious look at how chipotles can not only spice up your life but sweeten your life as well.

Wonderful Gifts Just in Time for Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:25:00 +0000

Spring is a gorgeous time of year where flowers are blooming, birds are whistling, and gift giving is at an all time high. Whether celebrating an anniversary, holiday, or “just another day”, Spring allows us to touch base with a softer side where possibilities are limited only by our imagination.

Cooking is always fun, and as you start warming up those grills, here are a few gift ideas that will definitely work for your friends and family!

4 Shell Taco Holder

The original taquero! Handy and attractive. From stove top to table top. Perfect for a party or buffet: place the taco shells in the taco holder and let your guests add the fill-ins! Makes it so much easier to fill while at the stove and easy to carry to the table using the end tabs as handles.

Salsa Caddy

Attractive salsa caddy has 2-10oz removable molcajetes (salsa bowls). Unique cactus design center handle.

Molcajetes (bowls) are removable for use without the caddy holder but rather as individual bowls.

Perfect for serving two types of salsas, peppers or condiments, shredded cheeses or use for serving our famous Boracho Bean soup!

Cactus Napkin Holders

Set of 4 napkin holders in an attractive & unique cactus look

Tortilla Server / Warmer

The best tortilla warmer on this side of the Rio Grande!

These attractive and indestructable warmers will keep your tortillas warm throughout a meal or buffet. Place the warmer in the microwave with frozen tortillas, defrost, add lid and serve.

With these gifts at your side, this Spring is looking oo-la-la delicious!

Kitchen Tips: Cooking Smarter

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:13:00 +0000

When it comes to cooking in the kitchen, tips and tricks are a wonderful way to maximize your own time and efforts. Kitchen tips come in all styles and types which make them a wonderful way to put a bit of excitement into the food, but more importantly, kitchen tips definitely make life a bit easier.

Take a look at a few of our preferred kitchen tips!

Those hot grill bars make dramatic grill marks on that favorite rib eye. Concentrating the heat and keeping it from escaping allows you a simple way top clean those grill bars without a lot of dangerous chemicals. Take a simple sheet of aluminum foil, and lay it flat on the grill for about 10 minutes. Peel the foil off of the grill, scrunch into a ball and use the foil ball to clean the grime off your grill.

Want to quickly cool off that favorite bottle of wine?

Grab an ice bucket. Fill the ice bucket half full of ice. Add about 2 handfuls of salt. Add enough water to cover the top of the ice and that is all the water should cover. Now, add the bottle of wine. You should have ice cold wine in about 25 minutes. Do not forget to remove the excess water and ice before serving!

To keep cake from sticking to the bottom of the pan you can turn to good, old fashioned grease and flour, or you could try this method…

Cut a piece of wax paper the same size as the baking pan. Grease the bottom of the pan, and place the cutout at the bottom of the baking pan. That cake will be super easy to remove and without a lot of oopsies!

Chipotle History

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 01:57:00 +0000

With a heat factor (SR) of between 10,000 and 50,000, the chipotle chili is a medium ranking chili offering a spiciness that has a unique flavor when melded with certain foods. This is a smoky chili found primarily in the heart of Mexico. However, the chipotle has found a home in Mexican-American, Tex-Mex, and Mexican cuisine.

Typically, a grower will pass through a jalapeño field multiple times, picking the best green jalapeños for market. At the end of the growing season, jalapeños naturally begin to turn red. There is an extensive fresh market for red jalapeños in both Mexico and the United States. Many U.S. growers disk the red jalapeños into the ground. They are kept on the vine as long as possible. When the jalapeños are deep red and have lost much of their moisture, they are selected to be made into chipotles.

Once chosen, these red jalapeños are moved to a cozier location – a smoke-box. This smoker will have layers of these red jalapeños that will be soon smoked to perfection and turned into the chipotle so popular in our cuisine.

Did you know it takes roughly 10 pounds of jalapenos to make just one pound of chipotle?

Chipotles are a key ingredient that impart a relatively mild but earthy spiciness to many dishes in Mexican cuisine. The chiles are used to make various salsas. Chipotle chiles can also be ground up and combined with other spices to make a meat marinade known as an adobo.

How do you like your chipotles?

Recipe of the Week: Plantain empanadas with crema

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 01:47:00 +0000

Looking for a unique Mexican food recipe that will literally take your breath away? Well, I was scanning the LA Times this last weekend and stumbled across this recipe. I must admit, I was slightly taken back by the details and numerous ingredients, but I have always wanted to try plantains… so the fun began!

This is delicious! I would love to hear what more of you think…

Plantain empanadas with chipotle crema

Total time: 2 hours, plus cooling time
Servings: Makes 30 empanadas

Note: Adapted from a Border Grill recipe. The plantains should be mostly brown with only a little yellow; plantains with any green on them will not be sweet.

6 very ripe plantains, unpeeled
2 small poblano chiles, roasted, peeled and seeded
2 cups good-quality, canned refried black beans
4 green onions, white and light green parts, thinly sliced
1/2 cup grated añejo, Romano or feta cheese
1/2 cup grated Manchego or Monterey Jack cheese
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
2 ripe bananas, peeled
2 medium onions, roughly chopped
7 dried chipotle chiles, stemmed, or 3 canned chipotle chiles, stemmed and rinsed
16 Roma tomatoes, cored
20 garlic cloves, peeled
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 cup peanut oil
1 cup crema, crème fraîche or sour cream

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Cut a lengthwise slit into each plantain and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake until the flesh is thoroughly soft and oozing through the slit, 40 to 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.

2. While the plantains are roasting, make the stuffing: Finely dice the poblano chiles. In a medium bowl, combine the diced chiles, beans, green onions, cheeses and one-half teaspoon each of salt and pepper. The stuffing can be made up to a day in advance and reserved in the refrigerator.

3. Make the dough: Peel, trim and discard any tough ends from the plantains. In a food processor or in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the plantains and bananas with 2 teaspoons salt and purée. Be careful not to overwork the dough or it will become too starchy. Wrap the dough in plastic and chill until firm, about 2 hours.

4. Make the chipotle salsa: Combine the onions, chipotle chiles, tomatoes, garlic and 6 cups water in a medium saucepan. Stir in 4 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon pepper and the sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by about one-third and the tomato skins are falling off. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool. Pour the mixture into a blender or food processor and purée until smooth, then cover and refrigerate. This makes more salsa than is needed for this recipe. The remainder can be reserved for another use.

5. To assemble the empanadas, roll 2 tablespoons of the dough lightly between your palms to form a ball. Line the bottom of a tortilla press with a small plastic bag or plastic wrap and place the ball of dough in the center. Place another small plastic bag, or piece of plastic wrap, over the dough and press to form a 3 1/2 -inch circle. Place 1 teaspoon of bean stuffing on half of the circle and fold over to enclose, pressing the edges to seal. Repeat until you have used up the dough and stuffing; you should have about 30 empanadas. Place the stuffed empanadas on a tray and chill at least 30 minutes, up to a day.

6. Heat the peanut oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, until a thermometer inserted reads 350 degrees. Fry four to six empanadas at a time, shaking the pan constantly, about 1 minute until dark brown. Flip and cook the reverse side of each. Remove the empanadas and drain on paper towels.

7. Combine 1 cup of the chipotle salsa with the crema in a small bowl. Serve with the warm empanadas.

Each empanada: 133 calories; 3 grams protein; 18 grams carbohydrates; 2 grams fiber; 7 grams fat; 2 grams saturated fat; 7 mg. cholesterol; 431 mg. sodium.

Tortilla Chips: Avoiding MSG

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:27:00 +0000

If you have visited the blog on occasion, chances are pretty good you have noticed I really push the idea of making your own tortilla chips. Why is it so important you make your own homemade tortilla chips?

Simply stated: monosodium glutamate or MSG.

Before I started researching MSG, I thought, “Isn’t MSG that stuff that makes oriental food unhealthy?” Well, MSG is dangerous, unhealthy, and one of the world’s most popular preservatives and flavor enhancers.

The following is an article I borrowed with permission from the organization Truth in Labeling….

MSG is shorthand for processed free glutamic acid. It is a toxic substance used in food, drugs, cosmetics, and pesticide products without disclosure.

The flavor enhancer know as "monosodium glutamate" was first brought to the United States in quantity in the late 1940s. Today, processed free glutamic acid (MSG), the toxic ingredient in "monosodium glutamate," is found in virtually all processed food.

In 1997, MSG was introduced in a plant "growth enhancer" (AuxiGro) to be sprayed on growing crops. Testing of AuxiGro was approved by the EPA in September, 1997, and test crops that had been sprayed with processed free glutamic acid (MSG) were brought to market without telling consumers.

A number of people reported MSG reactions following ingestion of lettuce, strawberries, and the giant russet potatoes that came to market in 1997 -- people who didn't know that those crops might have been sprayed with a product that contained MSG.

EPA approvals of AuxiGro began in 1998. On January 7, 1998, processed free glutamic acid (MSG) used as a plant growth and crop yield enhancer was granted an exemption from establishment of a tolerance limit by the EPA -- meaning that processed free glutamic acid (MSG) could be used as a plant growth and crop yield enhancer without restriction. The January 7, 1998 Final Rule sanctioned the use of unregulated amounts of processed free glutamic acid (MSG) (calling it "the biochemical glutamic acid") regardless of how much processed free glutamic acid (MSG) residue might be left in or on any or all food commodities when bought by consumers -- when the processed free glutamic acid was applied as a plant growth and crop yield enhancer. Shortly thereafter, the EPA began to approve AuxiGro for use on specific crops. Today we know of no crop that the EPA has failed to approve for spraying.

By and large, individual states rubber stamped the EPA's approvals. For those few exceptions, Auxein/Emerald BioAgriculture set in motion the processes needed for individual state approvals. The most significant exception has been the State of California which has, to date, approved only almonds, broccoli, onions, tomatoes, melons, grapes, and stone fruits (peaches, nectarine, plums, pluots, prunes, apricots, and cherries. The glutamate industry continues to press for approvals of AuxiGro for additional crops and additional uses in California.

At the same time that Auxein/Emerald BioAgriculture was working on securing EPA approvals for AuxiGro, Auxein/Emerald BioAgriculture was also working to secure organic certification for its AuxiGro and the processed free glutamic acid (MSG) contained in it. In the late 1990's, the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), was pushing for these organic approvals over the objections of the Truth in Labeling Campaign. According to communications from Miguel Guerrero, Product Review Coordinator of OMRI, AuxiGro was never OMRI Listed, and "in 2002, [OMRI] voluntarily removed the product from consideration because the new National Organic Program Rule would have clearly prohibited it."

Processed free glutamic acid (MSG) is hidden in food, drugs, cosmetics, fertilizer, fungicides, plant "growth enhancers," and pesticides. Hidden, we believe, because the glutamate industry understands that MSG is a toxic substance: that it causes adverse reactions, brain lesions, endocrine disorders and more. Furthermore, the glutamate industry must certainly understand, as we do, that if the MSG in food, drugs, and cosmetics was disclosed on product labels, people who reacted adversely to those products might realize that is was the MSG they were reacting to, and might, therefore, refrain from buying any products that contained MSG.

When it comes to staying healthy, avoiding MSG is a good habit to get into. The great tortilla chips you need are going to be made in your own kitchen. Try our tortilla kit to see how good living MSG-free can be!

Recipe of the Week: Mexican Salad

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:27:00 +0000

This Mexican salad goes well with chicken quesadillas, beef tacos or enchiladas. Or you can add chicken, and this Mexican salad recipe becomes a wonderful lunch or light supper.

What makes this Mexican salad recipe a hit with kids is the way everything is cut into bite-sized pieces. Be sure to chop the spinach very finely, almost the size of coarsely-chopped parsley, and the salad will melt in your mouth.

Mexican Salad Recipe by Stephanie G.

Ingredients:

1 16 oz. package baby spinach
1 medium red pepper, diced
1 14 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup frozen or canned corn
1/4 cup finely-diced red onion
1/4 cup olive oil
3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
1/4 cup finely-chopped fresh cilantro
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. chili powder
kosher salt and pepper to taste
1 cup tortilla strips

Preparation:

Chop baby spinach finely -- the size of coarsely chopped parsley. Place in a large salad bowl.
Add diced red pepper, black beans, corn and onion.
Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.
If making in advance, store the salad and the dressing separately in tightly-covered containers. If serving right away, pour dressing over salad and toss.
Top with tortilla strips.

Happy Weekend!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 19:42:00 +0000

Guess what? Today is Friday! That means for many people, you get to relax, catch up on sleep, and/or prepare for upcoming events. How fun!

This Friday, Tex-Mex To Go wants to offer a few ideas on how to have fun with the whole family while staying indoors either by choice or due to the weather outside. Great for kids AND adults, you will discover that your weekends can be more exciting whether you go outside for a trip to the lake or stay home entertaining the kids.

Play a Board Game

With the addition of game systems and the internet, many families are missing out on family time. Try playing a board game with the whole family whether playing Risk or Monopoly. You will discover that you can have a lot of fun without a lot of high-tech equipment.

Start an Indoor Garden

Gardens are fun if you have a knack for keeping plants alive. Even if you do not have a green thumb, you can appreciate an indoor garden with the whole family. Plant an herb garden where all family members choose a favorite herb, or even start bean sprouts using a simple pinto bean, cup, and wet paper towel. Gardening is rewarding… get the whole family involved!

Make Nachos

Almost as fun as fondue (without the mess), nachos are great for anyone and can be customized to meet preferences. Make homemade tortilla chips and add some salsa. What you will discover is a snack the whole family can agree on.

Choosing the Best Food Gift Baskets & Boxes

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:40:00 +0000

In recent years, gift baskets have definitely increased in popularity. This increase in popularity has many reason ranging from cost to personal touches. Regardless of why you choose gift baskets, you will discover that a good gift basket is worth its weight in gold.

What should you look for when it comes to choosing the best gift baskets? Here are a few ideas from Tex-Mex To Go!

Go Natural…

With health consciousness being extremely important these days, you will discover that if you offer all natural (and sometimes organic) ingredients in your gift boxes or gift baskets that you will have a healthy and happy recipient. Tex-Mex To Go offers natural salsa gift boxes that deserve a closer look.

Avoid Sugar…

Well, most people just adore sugary snacks, but the truth is that as more people are being diagnosed with Diabetes and other health concerns, sugar is a thing to avoid. In addition, if you are giving gift boxes or baskets for company benefits, chances are you may not know whether someone needs to avoid sugar in his or her diet. Tex-Mex To Go does NOT add sugar to its salsa!

Make it Tasty…

When choosing the best food gift boxes or baskets, remember, taste is important. If you would not eat it yourself, would you expect others to? Tex-Mex To Go has salsa that is taste approved by more people around the globe. Simply delicious and brewed to perfection, our salsa is geared to please every audience.

Tex-mex, Mexican, salsa, gift-baskets, gift-boxes

Kitchen Tips: Get More From Your Produce

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 19:35:00 +0000

Whether you are living on a budget or simply want to ensure you get more for your money, knowing a few kitchen tips for your produce can help. The great thing about kitchen tips is that they do not cost you anything and what you get in return will stay with you for a lifetime.

Tex-Mex To Go offers these kitchen tips for your produce!

Hot Peppers or Chilies - When working with fresh chilies and peppers, wear disposable gloves. Don't handle the peppers under water (it extracts painful vapors). Remember, the spice comes from the white membrane inside the pepper, not the skin or seeds.
Herbs – Try preserving fresh herbs for out of season use by freezing the fresh herbs in ice or oil. Ice trays are perfect! Once needed, remember that there will be added oil or water content. If this is an issue, thaw completely before adding to a favorite recipe.
Potatoes – To keep potatoes from spouting, simply add an apple to the bag.
Peppers or Chilies – One easy method for finding peppers or chilies with the right hotness factor is to look at the skin. The more wrinkles usually means the mellower the chili or pepper.
Citrus Zest – You can grate off lemon, lime, or orange zest before squeezing the fruit. Freeze the zest in a freezer bag. Once needed, simply add a bit of sugar to the zest you need. This will add to the flavor as well as the consistency.

History of Chipotle

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 19:29:00 +0000

After trying this week’s recipe, you may find this bit of chipotle history extremely interesting. By taking an ingredient out of its traditional use, you are able to create a masterpiece of unexpected proportions. People are always surprised to find chipotle is more than just a spicy ingredient in a favorite burger or burrito.

Chipotles actually date back way before the popular Aztec civilization. While finding an actual date is little more than educated conjecture, people believe that the chipotle popularity started with its art for perseverance.

Jalapenos, while delicious and popular, are prone to rot easily and were often difficult to dry without our modern drying equipment. Chipotles are easy to preserve especially when drying, and chipotles are not as prone to rotting as other popular chilies. This made chipotles a definite favorite from a historic perspective.

Chilies were often smoked while drying meats. This was great because it would not only dry the chilies, but it would also allow the meats to take on the flavor of the chilies. Of course, everyone knows how delicious meat is when soaked or smoked in chipotle. Absolutely mouth watering!

Today, chipotles are popular throughout Mexico as well as the United States. However, chipotles are especially popular in the southern United States in such states as Texas. And chipotles are popular for a good reason – they are a spicy deliciousness you will never forget.

Looking at the history of chipotles makes it an easy process in understanding how those chili peppers could be used in our dishes such as soups and desserts along with main courses.

Recipe of the Week: Chocolate Chipotle Brownies

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 19:24:00 +0000

This week, we are going to spice up dessert with a delicious Mexican dessert recipe. If you have never tried adding chipotle to desserts, you are in for quite a surprise! This is delectably scrumptious and affords you a chance to experience true Mexican cuisine without a difficult recipe.

This is a recipe the whole family will love!

Chocolate Chipotle Brownies (Recipe By : RisaG)

i n g r e d i e n t s
3/4 cup butter or margarine
6 ounces semi sweet chocolate -- broken into small pieces
3 ounces unsweetened chocolate
3 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoons chipotle powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup raisins -- soaked overnight in beer
1/2 cup hazelnuts -- toasted & chopped
confectioners' sugar -- for garnish

d i r e c t i o n s
Put the butter and chocolate in a microwaveable dish
and melt them together on HIGH for a few seconds at a
time until the chocolate was melted. Stir well. Cool.

Beat the eggs in a mixing bowl until they start to
thicken. Add the sugars. Continue beating until the mixture
is light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla and chocolate mixture.

Lightly toast the spices in a skillet over low heat, stirring
often and don't allow to burn.! Combine the spices and flour in a bowl with a whisk.

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Gently add the
raisins and hazelnuts, stirring just until combined. Don't
over-mix.

Pour the mixture into a greased and floured 9" round pan.
Bake in a 350°F oven just until set 25-30 minutes. Cool
in the pan. Turn out and cut into wedges. If desired,
dust with confectioners' sugar and serve with vanilla
ice cream.

NEWS: Chili challenge raises $20K for charities

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 23:43:00 +0000

by Kelly Carr - Mar. 2, 2009
Special for The Republic

Before the crowd packed onto Washington Street in Phoenix, firefighters from across Maricopa County put the final design touches on their booths and transferred their chili into crockpots.

Soon enough there was a pirate ship boasting smoking cannons and a Western saloon complete with wood swinging doors. Retired firefighters dubbed the "Silverbacks" scooped their slow-burning chili to visitors and a Peoria battalion chief dressed as Elvis swooned fans to his "Hunk of Burning Love Chili" booth.

This was all part of Saturday's Fighterfighter Chili Challenge, an activity that had Valley fireman, local restaurants and non-profit organizations competing to have the best chili and booths all in an effort to raise money for charity.

In its second year, the challenge brought about 4,000 people to downtown Phoenix and raised $20,000 to support Valley firefighters' charity programs sponsored by the United Firefighters Association.

Rich Bauer, director for community programs for the association, said the money generated from the challenge supports fire victims and community programs.

"The money from this event allows us to be very reactive to the needs we see in the streets without using one cent of taxpayers' money," Bauer said. "This brings the community together and builds a team spirit."

Residents packed Washington Street between First and Fourth avenues, testing the varieties of chili, talking to firefighters and checking out the elaborate booths. In the sea of people was Phoenix resident Carol McCourt, who said the challenge was the perfect way to spend the day with her nephew, a firefighter from Greer. [Read More]

Note: What a great way to raise money! How do you help your local community?

Health After School Mexican Snacks

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 23:33:00 +0000

Living a healthy lifestyle starts when we are young. Maybe as adults it is a lifestyle we have had to work for, but as parents, we understand the need for healthy in the foods we eat and the life we live. One way we can ensure healthy lifestyle habits start young is to offer healthy after school Mexican snacks as a delicious and healthy alternative to junk food.

While there is never a guarantee your children will enjoy what you offer, you will be able to try different healthy snack ideas over time allowing you to find the best ones for your family. Of course, you can always mix and match ideas to suit a variety of children with ease.

What kind of healthy after school Mexican snacks can you offer your youngsters?

Salsa and Tortilla Chips

Everyone loves fresh, delicious salsa with homemade tortilla chips. This is the ultimate in after school snacks! You will find Tex-Mex To Go has the perfect salsa that comes without preservatives, additives, sugar, or added fat. Make your own tortilla chips and serve warm for the best results.

Nachos

Nachos are a wonderful idea implementing something perfect for everyone. Basically, nachos consist of tortilla chips and cheese. But you can add meat, vegetables, fruits, and other extras to make nachos a favorite in your household. Be careful! You will find slathering nachos with meats and sour cream is going to negate some of the healthiness of that after school snack.

Start treating your children in a healthy manner by offering healthy Mexican food snacks after school, and you will have started a great tradition that will continue for generations.

Gourmet Spicy Mexican Food Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 23:27:00 +0000

Do you enjoy that extra kick from Mexican food? Perhaps you like giving the gift that will test the “hot” limits of your dearest friend? Maybe you are a connoisseur of spicy chili from around the world?

Finding gourmet spicy Mexican food gifts is a delicious way to treat yourself or a close friend. Whether you choose Tabasco sauce or just a trail mix with an added kick, you will definitely discover that when you give the gift of spiciness, you are giving a gift that will keep on giving.

Spicy Tex-Mex Gourmet Jams - Let's jam it up...gourmet style! Fresh, tangy, spicy jams sure to lighten up any dip or baste over grilled chicken, beef or pork. Click on information for more delightful uses....personally, we spoon these jams over cream cheese, dip in with tortilla chips or crackers....and a margarita of course!

Tabasco Spicy Popcorn - Hot & Spicy Popcorn. Comes in a Tabasco burlap pouch with a small Tabasco bottle tied at the neck. Inside you'll find 1lb of unpopped corn and recipes from Tabasco. A great gift item!

Tex-Mex Spicy Trail Mix - Spicy Trail Mix - Addictive! And that is an under statement! One of our best sellers in our online store, probably because you can serve our spicy trail mix anywhere, anytime and for any occasion. Might even keep you calm while going nowhere in traffic (works for us!).

When it comes to giving the gift of spiciness, Tex-Mex To Go is here to help! Trust our quality when you demand the best…

Thanking Mexican Food

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 23:07:00 +0000

When we think of Mexican cuisine, we often think of spicy dishes filled with bright colors offering a scrumptious blend of flavors and aromas. Many people do not realize what Mexican cooking has given the world in terms of flavors. If you want to appreciate Mexican food at its finest, check out some of these interesting facts!

Do you like chocolate?

Whether you enjoy chocolate chip cookies, hot cocoa, a favorite candy bar, or even chocolate cake, you may not realize that chocolate originated from Mexico. As an export from Mexico, chocolate quickly became a rich flavor affordable by everyone.

Mexican cuisine is as rich as the chocolate the world appreciates today, but Mexico has given even more specialties to the world.

Tomatoes, coconuts, vanilla, peanuts, and beans are just a few of the other ingredients originating in Mexico. Mexican cuisine has spread its seed all over the world, and we enjoy its flavors almost everyday.

Whether cooking dinner or a magnificent dessert, you can thank Mexico for offering delicious cuisines. Mexican food actually evolved thanks to conquerors. Mexico melded together the best of each culture. With each additional culture, a new flavor was born.

Beef, lamb, wine, pork, cheese, vinegar, and other delicacies found their way into Mexican cuisine. As the people of Mexico evolved, the foods evolved as well. This has proven beneficial, but you will discover that “authentic” Mexican food is often an idea differing from one person to the next.

At Tex-Mex To Go, you will discover Mexican food takes on a whole new meaning!

Recipe of the Week: Mexican Omelet

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:04:00 +0000

Nothing screams “delicious” quite like Mexican omelets. Healthy and scrumptious, you will discover that Mexican omelets are a wonderful way to treat the family to something special. Easy to make, this is one recipe that is sure to please the entire family.

Mexican Omelet

6 tablespoons of oil (Olive oil is a healthy choice)
4 corn tortillas (Try one of Tex-Mex To Go Tortilla Making Kits)
1/2 chopped tomato
1/4 cup of chopped onion (Sweet is my favorite but you can use your own favorite)
1 small Serrano chile
4 eggs

Directions

Beat the eggs until frothy. Set aside.

Slice the tortillas into 1-inch slices. Dice the chile.

Heat half the oil in a small sauté skillet and sauté the tortilla strips. Drain appropriately.

Heat the remaining oil in the same small skillet and stir-fry the tomatoes, chile, and onion for about 30 seconds. Put the tortilla strips and the vegetable mixture together.

I prefer to use no stick cooking spray at this point. Spray a medium sized pan with no stick cooking spray and place on medium heat. Once heated, add the egg mixture. Do NOT touch the eggs! Once the egg mixture starts to pull away from the pan, flip the egg patty. Cook for about 1 minute. Flip back over.

Add your vegetable mixture and the tortilla strips.

You can add a favorite meat, cheese, and top with salsa and sour cream for the ultimate Mexican omelet around!

We Have Returned!

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:04:00 +0000

Due to a family medical emergency, Tex-Mex To Go put a hold on this most interesting of blogs on hold on Christmas Day. Much has occurred in that time, but needless to say, all of you have been missed.

Now for the good stuff!

Our Christmas Wish For You

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 15:00:00 +0000

My Christmas wish for you, my friend
Is not a simple one
For I wish you hope and joy and peace
Days filled with warmth and sun

I wish you love and friendship too
Throughout the coming year
Lots of laughter and happiness
To fill your world with cheer

May you count your blessings, one by one
And when totaled by the lot
May you find all you've been given
To be more than what you sought

May your journeys be short, your burdens light
May your spirit never grow old
May all your clouds have silver linings
And your rainbows pots of gold

I wish this all and so much more
May all your dreams come true
May you have a Merry Christmas friend
And a happy New Year, too ..Tex-Mex To Go wishes you a Merry Christmas :)

Last Minute Christmas Preparations

noreply@blogger.com (Stephanie Hudson) — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 02:04:00 +0000

Happy Christmas Eve!

If you are in the holiday spirit, chances are good you are awaiting the arrival of Santa in the hours ahead. Children are tucked into bed dreaming of the morning to come, and you are smiling happily content with the knowledge that you shopper well, prepared for everything, and the reward will arrive in the wee hours of the morning.

Christmas Eve is a time for reflection. Reflection on the past, present, and future. But today is also the time for checking that list a second time to guarantee tomorrow goes smoothly.

Whether flying to a family member’s house or hosting the Christmas party of all Christmas parties, you will find that you are better prepared if you follow these simple ideas.

Check for road conditions… road conditions in many parts of the country are hazardous right now. If you have family or friends traveling to you, road conditions are something you can share with those loved ones or the road conditions will let you know what to expect. Will they be delayed? Should you leave an hour or two earlier?

Check the ingredients list one more time… chances are good you have already completed your Christmas shopping. However, you may want to check that list one more time to ensure you have everything you need for Mom’s secret stuffing recipe. If you need to do some last minute shopping, drive safely but head out first thing in the morning.

Prepare the Christmas stockings… tonight is the time to fill those Christmas stockings with goodies and toys. This is always a family tradition in my home. Oodles of nuts and dried fruits mixed with a few little Cracker Jack (the old type) toys.

Finally, relax… you have worked hard and your reward is almost here. Make sure you have a camera ready to catch those smiling oohs and ahs of the Christmas morning. This is what memories are made of!