No holiday is complete without food, and that’s especially true of a Mexican Christmas! Christmas is a massive holiday in Mexican culture, with celebrations that begin at the beginning of December and last until the beginning of February. Each of these celebrations has traditions that go with it, and all those traditions are supported by delicious food. At Mi Jalisco, we bring traditional flavors to you with Mexican food in Manchester.
In this article, we’re taking a look at some of the traditional food that makes Mexican Christmas celebrations special.
Ensalada Nochebuena
The peak of the Christmas celebrations in Mexico occurs on Noche Beuna, Christmas Eve. Families traditionally celebrate with a big meal at midnight, featuring many dishes, including tamales, pozole, mole, buñuelos, and pan dulce. Ensalada nochebuena is one of the healthier, lighter offerings on the table. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t delicious! This salad is filled with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and nuts and topped with a creamy citrus dressing.
Ponche Novideño and Rompope
A meal isn’t complete without something to drink! Ponche Navideño is a warm fruit punch many people serve with their Christmas dinners. It’s non-alcoholic, so all ages can enjoy ponche as part of the celebration. There’s also rompope for the adults! Rompope is similar to eggnog with rum added to it. It’s a thick, warm drink perfect for celebrating on a chilly night.
Rosca De Reyes
As we mentioned, the Christmas celebrations in Mexico aren’t limited to Christmas Day. An important holiday within the Christmas season is Epiphany on January 6th. This feast celebrates the arrival of the Three Kings to Bethlehem and is celebrated with a party hosted in someone’s home. At this party, everyone enjoys Rosca de Reyes—Kings Bread—a ring-shaped sweet bread. The rosca is decorated with sliced and dried fruit, and inside, the baker conceals a small baby figurine to represent the Baby Jesus. Whoever gets the slice with the figurine has to host the celebration next year. Finding the baby figurine is also supposed to bring good luck throughout the year.
Mi Jalisco | Mexican Food Manchester
Mexican culture is rich with traditions, especially around Christmastime. When you want to celebrate with your friends and family, come to Mi Jalisco to enjoy authentic Mexican food in Manchester!