Celebrating Cinco de Mayo: A Look at the Festivities and Guacamole Tips from Chefs

The United States gears up for Cinco de Mayo celebrations, with music, all-day happy hours, and deals on tacos across the country this Sunday. The event, widely misunderstood, holds deep ties to Mexican American culture dating back to the 1800s.

In the U.S., Cinco de Mayo means parades, street festivities, mariachi competitions, and folkloric dances. For many, it’s a day to indulge in tequila shots and cheesy nachos, a stark difference from Mexican traditions.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico‘s victory over invading French troops in 1862 during the Battle of Puebla, led by Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza. Reenactments and parades honor this crucial moment in Mexican history.

However, it’s essential to note that Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day. The nation celebrates freedom from Spain on September 16, 1810, marked by the powerful Cry of Independence initiated by Rev. Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.

As May 5 approaches, numerous celebrations are lined up across the U.S., especially in regions with large Mexican American communities. From parades in San Jose to festivals in San Francisco, the country is set to embrace Mexican culture.

Chefs like Julian and establishments like Beto and Son in NY City offer insights into perfecting guacamole. Avocado variety, ripeness, and carefully selected seasonings play a vital role in crafting the ideal guacamole.

Perfect guacamole necessitates ripe Mexican Hass avocados with high oil content. Chefs recommend a balanced seasoning of salt, lime, and orange juice for a creamy texture. Using mortar and pestle enhances the consistency.

Unique twists on guacamole include incorporation of tropical fruits, berries, and even seafood like shrimp, crab, or lobster. Proper storage techniques, such as sealing with plastic wrap to prevent browning, maintain the freshness of guacamole.