Searching for an authentic Mexican restaurant near me in Plymouth, MI? There are plenty of Mexican restaurants out there, but what does it really mean for one to be “authentic?” What are the signs that a family Mexican restaurant is the real deal?
Many Mexican restaurants blend Mexican and American cuisine together. However, there are some qualities that only truly authentic Mexican dishes have.
At Las Palapas Authentic Mexican Restaurant, we’re the best Mexican restaurant near you in Plymouth, MI, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more about our menu or place your order online.
How Can I Tell If a Mexican Restaurant Near Me is the Real Deal?
Mexican restaurants near you that blend American and Mexican elements together are delicious even if they’re entirely authentic. For example, Tex-Mex is a popular style of Mexican-inspired cuisine, originally developed in Texas. It combines Mexican and American ingredients and preparation styles to create unique dishes.
Tex-Mex and other American-inspired dishes differ from authentic Mexican food because of the use of yellow cheese like cheddar and monterey jack, beef as the main protein, heavy use of cumin, and flour tortillas instead of masa.
An authentic Mexican restaurant near you in Plymouth, MI will likely have cuisine and ingredients based on particular regions. For example, Puebla, Oaxaca, or Yucatan. Each of these regions have a distinct style of food, but usually share some common elements, such as:
- Corn tortillas
- Authentic sauces like mole
- White cheeses like cotija or queso fresco
- Spices like oregano, clove, and coriander
- Chiles
Tacos
An authentic Mexican restaurant near you in Plymouth, MI goes beyond basic beef and chicken. Instead, look for tacos al pastor and birria tacos. Tacos al pastor is pork marinated with a variety of spices, while birria is slow-cooked beef. The cooking process is key to achieving an authentic flavor.
Tacos should also be served on small corn tortillas, rather than crispy hard shell tacos. Yellow cheese also should not be used. Tacos are typically only served with onion and cilantro.
Protein
Aside from tacos al pastor and birria, an authentic Mexican restaurant near you will have other proteins such as:
- Ceviche
- Camarones al mojo de ajo
- Carnitas
- Pollo con mole
These proteins go beyond simple beef or pork, or chili con carne by mixing a variety of ingredients and slow-cooking methods.
Cheeses
Queso fresco and cotija are likely to be found in any Mexican restaurant near you. These cheeses are white, crumbly, and typically used to garnish different plates. The use of yellow cheeses, on the other hand, is typically a sign of American influence. This is especially the case when large amounts of cheese are used in a dish.
Tortillas
An authentic Mexican restaurant near you should make their own corn tortillas. This is essential for fresh flavor. Some restaurants may also include flour options on their menu to appeal to a wide range of customers.
Sauces
Burrito or chili sauce are commonly found in Mexican restaurants. These are thicker sauces usually served on top of burritos or enchiladas. However, salsa verde and mole sauces are generally a sign of a more authentic Mexican restaurant near you.
Visit Las Palapas to Try the Best Mexican Dinner Near You
Ready to visit an authentic Mexican restaurant near you in Plymouth, MI? At Las Palapas Authentic Mexican Restaurant, we serve delicious Mexican food made with authentic preparation.
From burritos and tacos to enchiladas and fajitas, everything we serve is made with traditional preparation and fresh ingredients.
Want to taste our delicious food for yourself? Contact us to ask any questions or place your order online. Or, experience our fun, welcoming atmosphere for yourself and come by today to visit our Mexican restaurant near you in person!
