There are a lot of misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo.
First, it's not "the Mexican Independence Day" (that would be Sept. 16th).
Second, most Mexicans don't even celebrate the holiday! Outside of Pueblo (the Mexican town where the Mexican army repelled French forces on May 5th, 1962), Cinco de Mayo is just not that big of a deal.
Cinco de Mayo is popular in the States, however, where the holiday is celebrated by drinking too many margaritas, eating too many tortilla chips, and generally getting schwasted.
If you're following the Paleo diet you might be wondering how you can get your Cinco on without getting your inflammation and upset stomach on as well.
The answer? A "Paleo de Mayo" menu that mitigates the usual dietary disaster by keeping things grain-free, industrial oil free, and (mostly) homemade.
Buen provecho!
-T.Fed
The Drink
The NorCal Margarita by Ultimate Paleo Guide
Popularized by Robb Wolf, this popular drink maximizes the impact of the alchohol (thanks club soda!) while minimizing the negative effects of too much sugar.
The Appetizers
Homemade Paleo Tortilla Chips by Paleo Grubs
Sure you could use veggie crudites, but dips need chips! These grain-free almond flour based chips are baked (not fried) and make a perfect companion to Paleo-friendly sides like salsa and guac.
Paleo Guacamole by Paleo Effect
Traditional guacamole is already "Paleo", but this recipe really kicks up the flavor with restaurant-style flourishes. Pro tip: fold in the tomatoes last (after everything else is already combined) to keep them from getting mushy.
Nightshade Free Cucumber Radish Salsa by Nourishing Meals
For those following the auto-immune protocol (AIP) salsa is no bueno. This nightshade free version will let AIP Paleos enjoy without compromise.
Fresh Tomato Salsa by Cook Eat Paleo
No need to buy this ubiquitous condiment at the store when you can prepare it fresh in seconds. This bright, flavorful recipe beats the jarred stuff hands down.
Paleo Chile Relleno by Fed and Fit
A roasted, meat-stuffed chili pepper in a tasty red sauce. Nuff said.
The Main Courses
Simple Paleo Tortillas by Stupid Easy Paleo
While you can certainly sub lettuce for tortillas to make meats easier to eat, it wouldn't be a party without tortillas. This Paleo version is gluten free, grain free, and is durable enough to hold all your tasty tidbits together.
Easy Slow Cooker Paleo Taco Meat (with home-made seasoning) by Rubies and Radishes
Packets of taco seasoning often contain wheat flour, corn meal, MSG, and other "secret" ingredients (check this out if you don't believe me.) Don't risk contaminating your ground beef with gluten by following this recipe from the amazing Arsy!
Darlene's Mexican Carne Asada by Mark's Daily Apple
Carne Asada (literally "roasted meat") makes use of tasty marinade to make the meat ridiculously moist and tender even after grilling.
Paleo Fish Tacos by The Ancestral Chef
Fish tacos are a West Coast staple, so if you happen to prefer something lighter wrapped in your Paleo tortilla, this recipe is a perfect option.
Paleo Chicken Tacos with Bacon by Nature Moms Blog
Bacon, chicken, bam!
The Dessert
Mexican Chocolate Pots de Creme by Nom Nom Paleo
Smooth dark chocolate with a spicy kick topped with whipped coconut cream. A heavenly creation that is the perfect finish to your Cinco meal.
Are you started to get psyched up for grilling season? Pick up a copy of my cookbook, "Paleo Grilling: A Modern Caveman's Guide to Cooking with Fire" for more than 100 coal-fired recipes!
0 comments:
Post a Comment