5 Treats for Cinco de Mayo

Tuesday, May 5th it's time to break out the tequila,Tecate, chips and guacamole, and celebrate Cinco De Mayo: a holiday commemorating the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at The Battle Of Puebla in 1862. The holiday celebrates Mexican culture and pride (not Mexico's Independence Day) and is observed widely throughout the United States. If you're hosting a Cinco de Mayo fiesta or are seeking a little culinary creativity, Behind the Burner has festive, Mexican-inspired food and drink ideas for you.

1. Salsa Verde
Concocted by Chef Sue Torres from Sueños in New York City and featured in Food & Wine's 2009 Annual Cookbook, this zesty salsa features beautiful green tomatillo peppers, fresh garlic, serrano chile and cilantro.

2. Guacamole
You say "g-waka," I say, "h-waka." Regardless of the pronunciation, guacamole is a tasty treat on Cinco de Mayo or any other day of the year. High in monosaturated fats, avocados are a good source of fat for a vegetarian diet and a perfect food to eat if you're looking to lower your cholesterol.

3. Traditional Mole
With more than just a laundry list of ingredients, an authentic Mexican mole requires hours of attention and is advised to be prepared on Cuatro de Mayo in order for your Cinco de Mayo festivities. A bizarre concoction of dried peppers, roasted vegetables, nuts, seeds and chocolate is actually the perfect time machine to Old Mexico.

4. Cilantro Margarita
Traditionally used in Mexican, Middle Eastern and Asian cooking, cilantro comes from the leaf of the young coriander and is heavily-grown in California. In this unique twist on a classic margarita, the herb's fragrant parsley and citrus aromas infuse with simple syrup and tequila. Don't be fooled by its refreshing and aromatic air, this cocktail packs a potent punch and one too many, and you may just find yourself trying to bring back the Macarena.

5. The Behind the Burner Cocktail
Created by mixologist Vincenzo Marianella, this spicy tequila cocktail is deliciously caliente and will definitely shake things up. With tequila partida, apricot brandy, fresh lemon, simple syrup, blood orange and topped with a hot Jalapeño, this drink will burn calories faster than you can say olé! Chilis and hot peppers are high in minerals and antioxidants that boost your metabolism and immune system, so you can guiltlessly enjoy another taco or two. For extra heat, check out artisanal Tanteo Jalapeño Tequila: 100% agave, handcrafted and a peppery sizzle.

— Written by Mona Buehler and Hailee Moore

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