senorita.GIF (51544 bytes)

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo With Attitude!


tamale.GIF (26230 bytes)

 


Recipes

Arroz Rojo

Baked Chilaquiles

Baked Chiles Rellanos

Cabbage-Carrot-Pineapple Salad

California Avocado
Veggie Tacos

Cantaloupe Dessert Soup

Chicken Enchiladas

Colache

Fiesta Fish

Fruit In Amaretto Cream

Grilled Lemon Fajitas

Honey Avocado

Jicama & Citrus Salad

Little Gifts

Margarita Fruit Salad

Mexican Flan (Custard)

Mexican Rice

Official Cinco de Mayo Guacamole (1998)

Peach (Dessert) Burritos

Pepper Quesadillas

Pico De Gallo

Pinto Bean Cake

Quick Enchilada Sauce

Soft Tacos Delicioso

South Texas Squash Casserole

Spicy Black Bean Pie

Stuffed Chayotes

Tia's Beans

frijoles.GIF (24255 bytes)

Return To Index


Did You Know?

There are approximately 1.2 million Mexican Americans with diabetes. That's roughly 10.6% of the Mexican American population. Did you know that on average, Mexican Americans are 1.9 times as likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites of similar age?

Statistically stated:

  • The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes is 2 times higher in Latinos than non-Latino whites.
  • 1.2 million or 10.6% of all Mexican Americans have diabetes.
  • Approximately 24% of Mexican Americans in the United States and 26% of Puerto Ricans between the ages of 45-74 have diabetes.
  • Nearly 16% of Cuban Americans in the United States between the ages of 45-74 have diabetes.

California Update

California's large and rapidly growing Hispanic population is developing diabetes at an alarming rate, a problem that poses new threats to a strained public health system, according to a report released 4/30/03.

The report,  by researchers at the University of California at Los Angeles,  analyzed state data to conclude that nearly a quarter of retirement-age Hispanics have been diagnosed with the incurable disease -- twice the percentage of whites and significantly more than Asians.

While the report says diabetes also is prevalent among the state's black and American Indian populations, their numbers do not rival the Hispanic presence in California.  About one in three CA residents is Hispanic -- that was 11 million people in 2000, a number projected to double by 2025, according to the Census Bureau.

According to a report by UCLA's Center for Health Policy Research, based on data from a telephone survey of more than 55,000 CA state residents done in 2001, nearly 6 percent of adults and 12,000 adolescents age 12 to 17 have been diagnosed with diabetes.  Survey respondents self-identified their race.  Based on the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles and obesity, an additional 1.8 million  are thought to be are at significant risk for becoming diabetic.

The report goes on to state that younger Hispanics have a rate of diabetes comparable to other groups, but the numbers begin to rise as the population ages. By age 65, 24 percent of Hispanics are diagnosed with the disease -- compared with 12 percent of whites and 15 percent of Asians.

The most common form of the disease was once called "adult-onset" diabetes, but recently it began showing up among more children and adolescents. While genetic factors increase the chances of developing diabetes, researchers agree that the growing obesity problem has become the leading risk factor.

Obesity ~ and by extension, diabetes ~ is the most common among Californians in low-income, rural, undereducated and non-English-speaking communities. Almost 60 percent of Hispanic adults in California are obese compared with 51 percent of white adults, the study says.

The study also found that Hispanics are more likely than other populations to be un-insured, making treatment of the disease more challenging.  About one-third of Hispanics with diabetes take no medication for their condition, compared with 21 percent of whites ~ and only about 35 percent of Hispanics monitor their blood sugar.

Diabetes is an incurable condition characterized by the body's inability to break down sugars in the blood. It is the nation's seventh-leading cause of death, and the leading cause of adult blindness, kidney failure and amputation of lower limbs. Diabetes frequently leads to heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.

Sources: Beth Fouhy, The Associated Press; Sacramento Bee staff writer Dorsey Griffith; and The Modesto Bee, 4/30/03.

mexchef.GIF (76289 bytes)

Cinco de Mayo Party Suggestions

  • Plan your party and your menu around the bright colors of the Mexican flag. Think red, green and white.

  • Drape serving tables with colorful serapes or paper maps of Mexico.

  • Line terracotta pots with foil and use them as serving dishes.

  • Use groupings of small succulents and cacti to create a theme centerpiece.

  • Hang red, green and white Christmas lights for a festive touch.

  • If you can't afford to hire a mariachi band, set the mood with authentic Mexican music. Check the international section of your local record store.

  • Kids and adults will have fun making and breaking their own piñatas. Give each guest a large paper bag half filled with candies, small toys, coins, and other trinkets. Tape or staple the top shut and let guests decorate their piñata using a selection of colored tissue papers and construction papers. Provide enough glue sticks to go around. Guests can take theirs home as party favors. Suspend yours in a wide doorway or from the ceiling in the center of the room using heavy twine. Let each guest take a turn (while blindfolded) at breaking the bag with a broomstick or one-inch dowel. Spin them around a few times to make it harder. When the piñata breaks, everyone scrambles for the scattered goodies.

  • Make Ojos de Dios. These traditional God's Eyes are simple and colorful party favors. You'll need two wooden crafts sticks, a selection of colorful yarns, scissors and a glue stick for each one. Glue the two sticks together to form a cross. Take one color of yarn and wrap it over and around one stick, then over and around the next until you run out of yarn. Knot a new color to the end of the first length of yarn and continue wrapping. Use at least three different colors for a pleasing design.

  • Give a game of charades a Mexican flavor by asking guests to act out simple Spanish words such as Amigo, Burro, Tamale, etc.

  • Let guests try their hand at making corn tortillas from scratch. Look in the Mexican food section of your grocery story for Corn Masa, a special corn meal flour. The bag will include directions for making tortillas. Let them cook their creations on an electric griddle.

Source: The California Avocado Commission

Cactus.GIF (20498 bytes)

Return To Index

 

     Greetings and welcome to our salute to Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican national holiday that celebrates the defeat of the French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862,  when against overwhelming odds, outnumbered Mexican soldiers changed history by successfully holding back Napoleon III's overconfident brigade.

     Over the years of frolicking festivity, the celebration of  Cinco de Mayo is one foreign holiday that now seems almost as American as apple pie in many southwestern regions of the United States. Crowds of festive revelers hit the streets, restaurants, and parks -- from the afternoon well into the night --singing, dancing, and generally having a spontaneously festive time.  Strolling mariachis, picnics and fiestas are standard entertainment.  Ask many an American why they're celebrating and the response is like to be, "Simply to have a good time."

     This year we're inviting you to take a break from the typical Tex-Mex  fare (usually loaded with fat and calories), and encourage  you to become better acquainted with real Latin culture by exploring the lighter side of Mexican cooking. 

     Contrary to popular belief, original Mexican cocina (cuisine) was healthful and light. The Aztec diet was primarily vegetarian and was based on indigenous crops of corn, beans, chiles, tomatoes, and squash (coastal regions also consumed fish and seafood). The heavy, fried Tex Mex fare, which people usually associate with Mexican cuisine, is not at all representative of the diverse cuisines of Mexico. Authentic Mexican cuisine boasts a delicious combination of fresh vegetables, wholesome grains, hearty legumes, and bold seasonings.

     Lightening your Mexican recipes (which typically call for lard), is easy by substituting small amounts of monounsaturated oils like olive or canola, and adding garlic, onion, herbs, spices, and chiles to boost flavor.  Better yet, stick with Mexican dishes that are already low in fat. Mexican salsas are easy to make, require little or no fat, and add pizzazz to plain grilled chicken or fish.

     Vegetables such as tomatillos, onions, chiles, garlic and tomatoes are often roasted, and nuts, seeds, spices, and herbs are often toasted to intensify flavors when used in traditional Mexican cuisine.  Other traditional techniques for cooking with a Latin flavor  include steaming food in cornhusks or other natural food wrappers, or grilling to enhance food flavors without adding additional fat.

     In the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, we're inviting readers of ALL ethnicities to sample some new and healthier Latin flavors from recipes chosen from a select group of our favorite cookbooks.  You don't have to have diabetes to enjoy these fiery foods ~ Just bring your plate and a healthy appetite. Olé and Salud!!

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

OFFICIAL  CINCO DE MAYO GUACAMOLE 1998
Recipe from
The California Avocado Commission

2 California avocados
3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 Tbsp chopped tomato
2 Tbsp chopped yellow bell pepper
1/2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp minced cilantro
Minced Jalapeno pepper, to taste
Garnish: Cheddar or jack cheese (not included in analysis)
Tortilla chips and/or raw vegetables

     Cut the avocados in half and remove the seeds. Scoop out the pulp and place in a bowl. Drizzle the pulp with lemon juice and mash, leaving some chunks. Mix well with remaining ingredients. Add Jalapeno to taste and garnish with cheese. Serves: 12.

Per Serving (Dip Only): 55 calories, 5 g Total Fat; (3 g  Monounsaturated Fat, 1 g Sat Fat, 0.6g Polyunsaturated Fat): 3 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol: 93 mg Sodium; 1 g Dietary Fiber; 1 g Sugars; 1 g Protein.   Exchanges: 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

BAKED CHILES RELLENOS
Here is an alternative to deep-fat frying chile rellenos. 
Recipe from A Taste of Mexico, Vegetarian Cuisine, ©1996 by Kippy Nigh.

4 large poblano chiles or 8 small ones, OR two 4-ounce cans of  whole         green chiles
1/2 pound low-fat Chihuahua, Muenster, or Monterey Jack
      cheese, grated
4 eggs, separated
1/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp sea salt

Sauce:
1/2 pound fresh tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1/2 onion
1 sprig fresh epazote or parsley
pinch of sea salt

     Preheat oven to 350°F.  To peel the chiles, first roast them on a hot griddle or under the broiler, turning occasionally until they are evenly blistered.  Place them in a plastic bag to "sweat" for a few minutes, then peel.  Cut a slit down the side of each chile. Remove the seeds and veins with care.  If the chiles are hot, they may burn your fingers.  To remedy this, you can soak them in salt water for 15 minutes and wash your hands after handling them.  We recommend you use plastic gloves to handle the chiles and keep your hands away from your eyes.

     Stuff the chiles with the cheese, and place in a lightly oiled or sprayed 9 x 9-inch baking dish.  Beat the egg whites until stiff but not dry.  Separately, beat the yolks slightly, adding the flour, baking powder and salt. Fold the yolk mixture into the beaten egg whites until well blended. Pour this mixture over the chiles, and bake for 20 minutes.
     Meanwhile, blend the tomatoes with the garlic and onion.   Strain through a fine wire strainer into a small pot. Cook with the epazote or parsley sprig and salt over low heat while the chiles bake.  When the chiles are done, remove them from the oven, and serve with the tomato sauce on top, accompanied by refried beans, if desired. Makes 4 Servings.

Per Serving: 184 Cal; 7 gm Fat (2 gm Sat Fat); 14 gm Carb; 240 mg Chol; 166 mg Sodium; 9 gm Protein; 80 mg Calcium; 2 gm Fiber.  Dietary Exchanges: 1/2 Starch/Bread; 3-1/2 Protein; 1 Vegetable; 2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

MARGARITA FRUIT SALAD
Recipe from Light The Fire, Fiery Food With A Bold New Attitude,  by Linda Mathie-Jacobs, ©1999 by The MJM Grande Publishing Co., Ltd, www.cookingwithfire.com/

Tequila Orange Liqueur Dressing:

3 Tbsp tequila
3 Tbsp orange-flavored liqueur (Triple Sec, Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
3 Tbsp orange marmalade
Juice of 1 lime, approximately 2 Tbsp.

Fruit Salad:

4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
4 oranges, peeled, sectioned, and cut in small pieces
1 small honeydew melon, rind and seeds removed, and cut in small pieces
1 small cantaloupe melon, rind and seeds removed and cut in small pieces

     In a large bowl, mix together tequila, orange-flavored liqueur, orange marmalade and lime juice. Add strawberries, oranges, honeydew and cantaloupe. Stir to combine and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to blend. Serves 6.

Per Serving: 207 Cal; 1 g Total Fat; 45 g Carb;  00 mg Cholesterol; 42 mg Sodium; 44 mg Calcium; 5 g Dietary Fiber. Exchanges:
3 Fruit; 1/2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

PEPPER QUESADILLAS
These are delicious & so easy to prepare! Recipe from Fire ‘n’ Ice,
©1994 by Linda Matthie-Jacobs & Sheri Morrish,
The MJM Grande Publishing Co., Ltd, www.cookingwithfire.com/

1-1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 large sweet green pepper,thinly sliced
1 large sweet red pepper, thinly sliced
1 large sweet yellow pepper, thinly sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies, drained
1/2 tsp ground cumin
6 (8-inch) flour tortillas
2 cups fat-reduced Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

     Preheat oven to 425ºF.

     In a large skillet, over medium-high heat, heat oil and sauté peppers, onion and chilies for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in cumin, then drain, reserving liquid.

     Sprinkle half of each tortilla with cheese and top with pepper mixture. Fold tortillas in half and place on a baking sheet. (You can overlap a bit to fit). Brush with reserved liquid. Bake 7 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Cut each tortilla into thirds and serve warm with salsa. Serves 6.

Per Serving: 173 Cal; 6 g Total Fat; 26 g Carb; 4 g Protein; 00 mg Cholesterol; 239 mg Sodium; 3 g Fiber. Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread;
1 Vegetable; 1 Fat
.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
You can make these a bit more fancy by topping them with a dollop of Guacamole, a dollop of light sour cream and sliced ripe olives. Recipe
from The Guiltless Gourmet, ©2001 by Judy Gilliard,
published by Adams Media Corp.

2 cups Quick Enchilada Sauce (recipe follows)
12 (6-inch) corn tortillas
6 ounces cooked chicken, shredded or diced
6 ounces low-fat jack or cheddar cheese (reserve a little for top of      casserole)
1/2 onion, minced
Cilantro leaves

     Preheat oven to 350°F.  Heat the Enchilada Sauce in a skillet until hot.

     Dip a tortilla into the sauce, then remove it to a clean, flat surface.  Place 1/2-ounce each of the chicken and cheese in the middle of the tortilla and top with a sprinkle of minced onion.  Fold the tortilla into thirds and place it seam-side down into a baking dish large enough to hold the full dozen.

     Repeat this process until all of the tortillas are filled.  Spoon the remaining Enchilada Sauce over the tortillas.  Top with a little reserved cheese.  Cover and bake for about 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Makes 6 Servings.

Per Serving (without optional topping): 220 Cal; 8 g Total Fat (6 g Sat Fat); 19 g Carb; 53 mg Cholesterol; 328 mg Sodium; 284 mg Calcium; 2 g Fiber; 19 g Protein. Exchanges: 1 Starch; 1 Veg; 2 Very Lean Meat; 2 Fat.

QUICK ENCHILADA SAUCE
(Nutritional analysis included in the Chicken Enchilada recipe)

1 cup chicken broth
1 cup tomato sauce
1 Tbsp tomato paste
1 Tbsp chili powder
2 cloves garlic, pressed
1/2 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp cumin

     Combine all of the ingredients in a saucepan.   Bring to a boil; then reduce to a simmer for about 20 minutes. Yield: About 2 Cups.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

SOUTH TEXAS SQUASH CASSEROLE
(Calabaza Sur Tejano)

Confused about winter and summer squash? Summer squash has a thin peel, easily punctured. A good example would be yellow squash. Winter squash has a hard peel. (A Halloween pumpkin is a winter squash). Recipe from Healthy Mexican Cooking, by Velda De La Garza, M.S., R.D., ©1995 by Appletree Press, Inc.,  www.appletree-press.com/

1 cup onion, chopped
1 tsp low-calorie margarine
7 cups (about 6 squash) yellow, summer squash, peeled and thinly          sliced
1/2 cup canned Ro-Tel tomatoes** and green chilies (or similar          substitute), crushed
1/8 tsp freshly ground pepper, or to taste
4 ounces part skim Mozzarella cheese, grated

** Ro-Tel tomatoes are a combination of cooked tomatoes & peppers. Some major tomato companies have similar tomato & pepper products you can substitute. Look for them in the Hispanic foods section.

     In a large skillet, melt margarine. Add onions and sauté until they look clear. Add sliced squash and continue to sauté 4-5 minutes more, tossing gently.

     In a large baking dish (sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, if desired), combine tomatoes, squash and onions. Mix well and add pepper. Sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake 30 minutes in 350°F oven, or until bubbly. Serves 8.

Per Serving: 70 Cal; 3g Total Fat;  7 mg Cholesterol; 200 mg Sodium. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Veg; 1 Bread; 1/2 Fat; 1 Meat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

FIESTA FISH
Good choices for this dish are sea bass, halibut or red snapper.  Shrimp would also work, if you have some in your freezer and are looking for something different to do with them.  Recipe from The Guiltless Gourmet, ©2001 by Judy Gilliard, Adams Media Corp.

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 whole green pepper, chopped
2 Tbsp red onion, chopped
1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
3 Tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp basil
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp chili powder
2 pounds fresh whitefish

     Preheat oven to 350°F.  Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with a nonstick spray.

     Heat the olive oil in a nonstick skillet and sauté the green pepper, onion, and tomatoes for 1 to 2 minutes to soften.  Remove from the heat, add lemon juice, basil, black pepper and chili powder.

     Place the fish in the prepared dish, and spoon the vegetable mixture over it.  Cover and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the fish flakes with a fork.  Makes 6 Servings.

Per Serving: 178 Cal; 5 g Total Fat (<1 g Sat Fat); 4 g Carb; 73 mg Cholesterol; 121 mg Sodium; 179 mg Calcium; 1 g Fiber; 29 g Protein.   Exchanges: 4 Very Lean Meat; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

CALIFORNIA AVOCADO VEGGIE TACOS
Recipe from The California Avocado Commission

1 medium California avocado
Non-stick cooking spray (as needed)
1-1/4 cups onion, julienne strips
1-1/2 cups sweet green pepper, julienne strips
1-1/2 cup sweet red pepper, julienne strips
1 cup cilantro
1-1/2 cups fresh tomato salsa (recipe below)
12 (8-inch) flour tortillas

       Prepare fresh tomato salsa in advance (see below). Spray skillet with non-stick cooking spray.

     Lightly sauté the onion, green and red peppers. Mince cilantro and cut avocado into 12 slices. Warm tortillas in oven and fill with sautéed peppers and onions, cilantro, avocado slices, and salsa. Fold tortilla over and serve. Makes 12 Servings.

Fresh Tomato Salsa:

1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
1/3 cup onions, diced
1/2 clove garlic, minced
1/3 tsp Jalapeño peppers, minced
2 tsp cilantro, minced
1 pinch ground cumin
1-1/2 tsp fresh lime juice

     Mix all ingredients   together and refrigerate. Yield: 1-1/2 cups salsa.

Note:  The fresh salsa can be made ahead and keeps for 2 days under refrigeration

Per (1 Taco) Serving: 158 Cal;  5 g  Total Fat (1 g Sat Fat, 1 g PolyUnsat Fat, 3 g MonoUnsat Fat); 25 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol; 175 mg Sodium; 2 g Dietary Fiber; 3 g Sugars; 4 g Protein. Exchanges: 1 Bread; 1 Veg; 2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

SOFT TACOS DELICIOSO
Recipe from The California Avocado Commission,
Cinco De May Recipes 1998

12 (6-inch) corn or flour tortillas
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1-1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1-1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil
3 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
3 California avocados, peeled, seeded, and diced
1 red onion, diced
1-1/2 cups prepared salsa

     Wrap tortillas in foil and keep in warm oven until ready to serve.

     Pound chicken until about 1/2-inch thick.   Drizzle lemon juice on chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

     Heat oil in a large skillet.  Cut chicken diagonally into 1/4-inch slices; sauté  3 to 5 minutes or until until no longer pink; keep warm.

     Fill tortillas with shredded lettuce, chicken, diced avocado and red onion.  Drizzle salsa over filling and gently fold in half.   Makes 12 Servings.

Per (1 Taco) Serving: 241 Cal; 11 g Total Fat (2 g Sat Fat; 5 g MonoUnsat Fat; 1 g PolyUnsat Fat); 17 g Carb; 44 mg Cholesterol; 167 mg Sodium; 594 mg Potassium; 4 g Fiber; 20 g protein.  Exchanges: 1 Bread; 1-1/2 Very Lean Meat; 2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

GRILLED LEMON FAJITAS
According to author Velda De La Garza, "Barbecues are very popular in Texas, dating back to cowboy days. During the time of cattle drives, meats were cooked on open mesquite fires.**  There are many types of marinades we use for fajitas or skirt steak. This marinade is low in fat and easy. Select skirt steak that has been trimmed well and butterflied, if possible." Recipe from  Healthy Mexican Cooking, by Velda de la Garza, M.S., R.D., ©1995, 2002
by Appletree Press, Inc.,  www.appletree-press.com/

1 pound fajitas (skirt steak) trimmed well and butterflied
Juice of 4 to 5 lemons

**(Mesquite is a native Texas tree that provides excellent firewood for barbecues, giving meat a wonderful smoked flavor). Mesquite-type briquettes are available for barbecuing fajitas, or you can use real mesquite kindling.

     Prepare fajitas by removing all excess fat and connective tissue.  Add lemon juice and coat well.  Put fajitas in airtight container and place in refrigerator.  Allow to marinate in refrigerator for 2 days, turning several times.

     Cook over very hot mesquite coals for 10-15 minutes on each side.  Makes 4 Servings:

Velda's Serving Suggestion: For a real Texas meal, serve with rice, beans PICO DE GALLO and fresh corn tortillas!

Per Serving: 165 Cal; 6 g Total Fat (2 g Sat Fat); 64 mg Cholesterol; 86 mg Sodium.  Exchanges: 3 Meat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

PICO DE GALLO
Cookbook author Velda De La Garza says, "(This is) a very common relish in Texas;   we use it as an accompaniment for beef, chicken and even seafood. Pico de Gallo is low in sodium and adds lots of flavor to foods." Recipe from Healthy Mexican Cooking, by Velda de la Garza, M.S., R.D., ©1995, 2002 by Appletree Press, Inc.,   www.appletree-press.com/

3 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
2/3 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 small onion, chopped
Juice of 1 to 2 medium limes
Fresno Jalapeño or Serrano chile, chopped (optional)

     Mix all ingredients.  Use as relish or side dish.  Keeps about 2 days refrigerated, but is best if used fresh.  Makes 6 Servings.

Per Serving: 20 Cal; 00 g Total Fat (00 g Sat Fat);
00 mg Cholesterol; 7 mg Sodium; 1 g Fiber.  Exchanges: 1 Veg.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

MEXICAN RICE
This is an excellent side dish with Chicken Enchiladas. The fresh cilantro gives it a great taste.  Recipe from The Guiltless Gourmet, ©2001 by Judy Gilliard, published by Adams Media Corp.

2 tomatoes, chopped into large chunks
1/2 onion, chopped into large chunks
2 cloves garlic, peeled and cut in half
1/4 tsp chili powder
1 Tbsp canola oil
1 cup brown rice
1-1/2 cups chicken broth
Small bunch of cilantro, chopped

     Combine the tomatoes, onion, and garlic in a blender and purée.  Strain the mixture into a small bowl and add the chili powder.

     Heat the oil in a heavy pan o skillet.   Brown the rice in the hot oil, stirring constantly so it will not burn.  When the rice is browned, add the tomato mixture and broth or water.  Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.  Cover and cook for approximately 45 minutes, or until the rice is done and all of the liquid is absorbed.

     Add the chopped fresh cilantro, stir slightly, and serve.  Makes 4 Servings.

Per Serving: 230 Cal; 4 g Total Fat (<1/2 g Sat Fat); 47 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol; 152 mg Sodium; 3 g Protein; 2 g Fiber.  Exchanges: 3 Starch; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

CABBAGE-CARROT-PINEAPPLE SALAD
Children like this sweet recipe. It is quick and easy to make and is very nutritious, high in fiber, and nonfat.  Recipe from A Taste of Mexico, Vegetarian Cuisine, ©1996 by Kippy Nigh.

2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
1/2 pound carrots, peeled and shredded
1 cup fresh or canned pineapple, finely chopped
1/2 cup golden raisins

     Combine all the ingredients and serve. Makes 6 Servings.

Per Serving: 77 Cal; <1/2 gm Fat; 19 gm Carb; 0 mg Chol; 22 mg Sodium; 1 gm Protein; 27 mg Calcium; 3 gm Fiber.   Dietary Exchanges: 1 Vegetable; 1 Fruit.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

COLACHE
If accompanied with beans on the side, this dish, including its name, is
right out of a pre-Hispanic milpa (a cornfield consisting of corn,
beans, squash, peppers, and greens).  Recipe from A Taste of Mexico, Vegetarian Cuisine, ©1996 by Kippy Nigh.

2 Tbsp corn oil
3 green onions, chopped
1 poblano chile, stem removed, seeded & chopped
1/2 pound tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 pound zucchini, chopped
1/2 pound yellow squash, chopped
1 sprig fresh cilantro or epazote
kernels from 4 ears of fresh sweet corn
1 tsp sea salt
pinch of ground pequin (red, dried, very hot) chile

     In a 2-quart saucepan, heat the oil and sauté the green onions and poblano chile for 5 minutes.  Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring , for 5 more minutes.  Add the zucchini, yellow squash, cilantro, sweet corn kernels, salt and chile (if desired), and cover.  Lower the heat and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the vegetables are barely tender.  Serve with beans and rice.  Makes 4 to 6 Servings.

Per Serving (calculated for 6 Servings): 133 Cal; 6 gm Fat (1 gm Sat Fat); 20 gm Carb; 0 mg Chol; 26 mg Sodium; 4 gm Protein; 21 mg Calcium; 4 gm Fiber.  Dietary Exchanges: 1 Starch/Bread; 1-1/2 Veg; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

JICAMA & CITRUS SALAD
Jicama, also referred to as the "Mexican potato,"  is a root-type vegetable usually eaten raw.  Like a radish but sweeter, its outer grey-brown skin is removed before eating. Chose it firm
with no dark spots and store in the refrigerator.
Recipe from the
 American Institute for Cancer Research.

2 small Jicama, peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces
1 (8oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
1/4 cup orange juice
2 Tbsp lemon juice
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Paprika for garnish

Note: You can increase recipe by 1/2 for 6 Servings.

     Place the jicama and oranges in a salad bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the juices and cayenne. Pour over the jicama. Mix well and garnish with paprika. Makes 4 Servings.

Per Serving: 62 Cal; 00 g Total Fat; 15 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol; 5 mg Sodium; 4 g Fiber; 16 mg Calcium. Exchanges: 1 Veg; 1/2 Fruit.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

BAKED CHILAQUILES
Here is a great solution for leftover tortillas that is delicious and easy to make ~ an all-time favorite. There are many variations; this one uses green tomatillos, a small, green variety of wild tomato which grows with a thin, leaf-like husk. The husk is removed before cooking the tomatillos.  Recipe from A Taste of Mexico, Vegetarian Cuisine, ©1996 by Kippy Nigh.

12 tortillas, cut in strips
3 Tbsp vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, roasted and smashed
1 small onion, roasted and sliced
1 pound green tomatillos, husked, boiled for 15 minutes in
     salt water and drained
1 cup water
sea salt to taste
3/4 cup low-fat Chihuahua or Monterey Jack cheese, grated
1 cup plain, nonfat yogurt
3 green onion, chopped

     Preheat the oven to 350°F.   Fry the tortilla strips in the oil until crispy. Roast the garlic and onion in a dry skillet over medium heat, turning to scorch evenly.
     Combine the garlic, onion, tomatillos and water in a blender. Add salt to taste. In an ovenproof dish, layer the tortilla strips, then the cheese, and then the sauce.  Repeat the layers.  Bake for 20 minutes.
     Remove from the oven and garnish with the yogurt and green onions. Makes 4 to 6 Servings.

Per Serving (calculated for 6 Servings):  251 Cal; 9 gm Total Fat
(1 gm Sat Fat); 34 g Carb;  1 mg Chol; 213 mg Sodium; 11 g Protein; 305 mg Calcium; 5 g Fiber.  Dietary Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch/Bread; 1-1/2 Vegetables; 1/2 Protein; 2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

STUFFED CHAYOTES
Chayotes are pear-shaped, juicy vegetables that grow on a vine.
There are two basic varieties: those with spines and those without.
Homegrown varieties have spines; grocers carry the smooth ones.
Both kinds are delicious just boiled and salted. Recipe from A Taste of Mexico, Vegetarian Cuisine, ©1996 by Kippy Nigh.

3 chayotes, boiled in salted water until tender (about 30 minutes)
2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp fresh thyme, or 1/2 tsp dried
1/2 cup low-fat Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sweet corn kernels, cooked
1/4 cup vegetable broth
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1/3 cup seasoned whole wheat or rye bread crumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

     Preheat oven to 375°F.  Slice the cooked chayotes in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds.  Scoop out the pulp and save the shells.
     Mash the chayote and mix it with the garlic, thyme, cheese, corn, vegetable broth, salt and pepper.  Fill the chayote shells with the mixture, and cover with bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.  Arrange in an ovenproof dish, and bake for 20 minutes.  Makes 3 Servings.

Sodium Alert: This recipe is not suitable for those on sodium restricted meal plans.

Per Serving (2 Chayote shells with stuffing): 206 Cal; 4 g Total Fat (2 g Sat Fat); 32 g Carb; 6 mg Cholesterol; 650 mg Sodium; 9 g Protein; 209 mg Calcium; 7 g Fiber.  Dietary Exchanges:
2 Starch/Bread; 1 Protein; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

TIA'S BEANS
(Frijoles de Tia)

To test for doneness, blow on a spoonful.  If the outer part of the
bean "peels" away, they are done!  Recipe from Healthy Mexican
Cooking
, by Velda De La Garza, M.S., R.D., ©1995, 2002 by
Appletree Press, Inc.,  www.appletree-press.com/

2 cups dried pinto beans
2 quarts water
1 strip bacon
1-1/2 tsp oil
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 cloves garlic, crushed

     Clean beans according to package directions.   Rinse well with warm water.  In a large crock pot, add beans, 2 quarts boiling water, and remaining ingredients.  Cover top of crock pot with aluminum foil and top with lid.  Cook on high for 4 to 6 hours, stirring 2 to 3 times the first hour and then every hour after that.  Test beans for doneness after about 4 hours.

One half hour before beans are done add:

5 dashes Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp chili powder, more if desired
1 medium tomato, diced
1 small onion, diced
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green pepper

1 tsp salt

     Stir gently and continue cooking at high heat in crock pot until beans are done. Makes 12 Servings.

Per Serving: 150 Cal; 3 g Total Fat (1 g Sat Fat); 2 mg Cholesterol; 2230 mg Sodium; 6 g Fiber.  Exchanges: 2 Bread; 1/2 Veg; 1/2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

ARROZ ROJO
The red chile gives this rice dish amazing depth of flavor and color. It is virtually foolproof to prepare.  Recipe from Light The Fire, Fiery Food With A Bold New Attitude,  by Linda Mathie-Jacobs, ©1999 by The MJM Grande Publishing Co., Ltd, www.cookingwithfire.com/

1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1-1/2 cups long-grain rice, uncooked
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 Tbsp red chile powder
1-3/4 cups water
3/4 cup frozen baby peas, thawed

     In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add rice and sauté until evenly golden in color, about 7 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and continue to sauté until onion is translucent. Stir in the tomatoes, chile powder and water; bring mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low; cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed.

     Remove from heat; stir in thawed peas; replace lid and allow to steam for an additional 15 minutes. Remove lid; fluff with a fork and serve. Makes 8 Servings:

Per Serving: 179 Cal; 2 g Total Fat; 35 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol; 139 mg Sodium; 4 g Protein; 3 g Fiber; 37 mg Calcium. Exchanges: 2 Starch; 1 Veg; 1/2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

SPICY BLACK BEAN PIE
A hearty entrée with plenty of attitude! Recipe from Light The Fire, Fiery Food With A Bold New Attitude, by Linda Mathie-Jacobs, ©1999 by
The MJM Grande Publishing Co., Ltd,  www.cookingwithfire.com/

1 (15oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed
1/2 cup low-fat (2%) milk
2 egg whites
4 Tbsp chopped, fresh cilantro or parsley, divided
1 tsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup vegetable stock or broth
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 (4oz) cans chopped green chilies, drained
3 cups (about 7oz) tortilla chips, coarsely chopped, divided
1 cup light cheddar cheese, shredded

     Preheat oven to 375ºF.

     In blender, process beans, milk, egg whites and 2 Tbsp of the cilantro or parsley, until smooth. Set aside.

     In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, peppers, vegetable stock, garlic and green chiles; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining cilantro or parsley.

     Place 1-1/2 cups of chopped tortilla chips in the bottom of a 2-quart casserole. Pour bean mixture over chips. Spread vegetable mixture over bean mixture. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of the cheese. Add remaining chips and top with remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.

     Bake 30 to 35 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown. Serve with salsa, if desired. Makes 8 Servings.

Per Serving: 237 Cal; 10 g Total Fat; 30 g Carb; 6 mg Cholesterol; 94mg Sodium; 6 g Fiber; 10 g Protein; 233 mg Calcium. Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch; 1 Veg; 1 Protein; 2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

PEACH BURRITOS
This recipe makes an excellent breakfast, brunch or light dessert.   Recipe from Fire ‘n’ Ice, © 1994 by Linda Matthie-Jacobs & Sheri Morrish, The MJM Grande Publishing Co., Ltd, www.cookingwithfire.com/

2 large peaches, thinly sliced
4 (8-inch) flour tortillas
2 Tbsp butter or margarine
Cinnamon, to taste
2 Tbsp brown sugar, or to taste

     Arrange peach slices in a row near center of tortilla. Fold burrito up from the bottom first, then in from each side, folding over the bottom fold, like a diaper. Make sure your tortillas are fresh and not too dry!

     Melt margarine in a chafing dish or skillet. Place filled tortillas in the dish and cook 4 to 5 minutes, until golden brown, turning once. Remove from heat and sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar. Serves 4.

Per Serving: 176 Cal; 5 g Total Fat;   29 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol; 207 mg Sodium; 3 g Protein; 2 g Fiber.   Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread;
1/2 Fruit; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

HONEY AVOCADO
The simplest and quickest way to make a delicious California avocado dessert.  Recipe submitted to The California Avocado Commission by Ting Ting Ng, Leicestershire, UK.

1 whole California avocado
2 Tbsp honey

     Cut the avocado in half and remove the seed.   Scoop out the flesh into individual serving bowls.  Add honey and you're ready to eat dessert!  Makes 2 Servings.

Per Serving: 171 Cal; 15 g Total Fat (2 g Sat Fat, 10 g MonoUnsat Fat, 2 g PolyUnsat Fat); 12 g Carb; 00 mg Cholesterol; 10 mg Sodium; 541 mg Potassium; 2 g Protein; 4 g Dietary Fiber; 6 g Sugars.  Exchanges: 1 Starch (Other Carb); 3 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

CANTALOUPE DESSERT SOUP
Cantaloupe is loaded with beta carotene and vitamin C. It’s hard to believe that anything that tastes so sweet and fresh could be so good for you! Recipe from  Light The Fire, ©1998 by Linda Matthie-Jacobs, The MJM Grande Publishing Co., Ltd,   www.cookingwithfire.com/

2 large cantaloupes, cut in chunks
1/2 cup orange juice
1 fresh lime, juice of
2 Tbsp fresh mint
1 Tbsp liquid honey
1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
Mint sprigs for garnish

     Place half of the cantaloupe in a blender and add orange juice, lime juice, mint and honey; process until smooth. Add remaining cantaloupe; process until smooth.

     In a large bowl, combine cantaloupe mixture with yogurt and mix well. Cover and chill until ready to serve. Garnish each serving with a mint sprig. Makes 6 Servings.

Per Serving: 179 Cal; 1 g Total Fat; 42 g Carb; 2 mg Cholesterol; 110 mg Sodium; 128 mg Calcium; 6 g Protein; 5 g Fiber. Exchanges: 2-1/2 Fruit.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

MEXICAN FLAN (CUSTARD)
Flan was originally a Spanish dessert, but it is made throughout
Mexico and is popular with everyone. Recipe from A Taste of Mexico, Vegetarian Cuisine, ©1996 by Kippy Nigh.

1-1/2 cups light brown sugar, divided
4 cups whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp almond extract
1/4 tsp salt
4 whole eggs
1/2 tsp cornstarch

     Preheat oven to 350°F. Heat 3/4 cup sugar in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and caramelizes. Pour into a 9-inch ovenproof baking ring, tilting it until the caramel covers the sides evenly. Set aside

     Heat the milk and the rest of the sugar in a medium saucepan until it boils; turn down the heat and cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes.  Remove from the heat and add the vanilla and almond extracts and salt.

     Beat the eggs lightly with a wire whisk, then dissolve the corn starch in a tablespoon of cold water; add to the beaten eggs.  Gradually add the warm milk and sugar mixture to the egg mixture, stirring constantly.  Pour this mixture into the caramel-coated baking ring.  Place the ring in a round, 1`2-inch cake pan or casserole, pour in an inch of hot water to the bottom of the outer container, and bake for approximately 40 minutes or until firm.   

     Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature before removing from the mold and refrigerating.  Serve well chilled.  Makes 8 Servings.

Per Serving:  225 Cal; 7 g Total Fat (3 g Sat Fat); 33 g Carb; 137 mg Cholesterol; 178 mg Sodium; 8 g Protein; 185 mg Calcium.  Dietary Exchanges: 2 Starch/Bread; 1/2 Milk; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

FRUIT IN AMARETTO CREAM
(Fruta en Crema de Amaretto)
Velda says, "This is one of my favorite desserts when I entertain.  It
is healthy and delicious."  Recipe from
Healthy Mexican
Cooking
, by Velda De La Garza, M.S., R.D., ©1995, 2002 by
Appletree Press, Inc.,  www.appletree-press.com/

1-1/2 Tbsp Amaretto liqueur**
3 packages sugar substitute, OR 2 Tbsp brown sugar (or to taste)
1 cup vanilla-flavored yogurt (sweetened with sugar substitute)
5 cups fresh, sliced strawberries or mangos or any mix of fresh fruit
2 Tbsp slivered almonds, toasted

**Almond extract may also be used to flavor yogurt.

     Combine liqueur or extract, sugar and yogurt, making a cream.  Stir long enough to dissolve all sugar.   Place fruit in dessert glasses.  Add Amaretto cream to top of fruits. Garnish with slivered almonds.  Makes 4 Servings.

Per Serving: 118 Cal; 3 g Total Fat (Trace Sat Fat); 1 mg Cholesterol; 46 mg Sodium; 2 g Fiber.  Exchanges: 1 Fruit; 1/4 Milk; 1 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

PINTO BEAN CAKE
This is a dense, moist cake with a surprisingly good taste. Because it is an exception to the low-fat guidelines for those with diabetes, include it only on special occasions.   Recipe from The UCSD Healthy Diet for Diabetes, A Comprehensive Nutritional Guide and Cookbook, by Susan Algert, MS, RD, Barbara Grasse, RD, CDE, and Annie Durning, MS, RD, ©1990 by Regents of the University of California.

1/4 cup fructose*
1/2 cup margarine, softened
2 eggs
2 cups pinto beans, cooked and mashed
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp allspice
2 cups diced apples
3/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
2 tsp vanilla extract

*Fructose is a naturally occurring sugar found in honey and fruits and contains the same number of calories as sugar.  Fructose is slightly sweeter (between 1.0 and 1.8 times) than sugar, and causes less of an elevation in blood glucose. In fact,  if diabetes is well controlled,  pure crystalline fructose will not raise blood glucose levels more than an equal amount of a complex carbohydrate.

     Preheat oven to 375°F.  Lightly oil or spray a 10-inch angel food cake or bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.     

     With an electric mixer or food processor, cream fructose and margarine until smooth.  Stir in eggs, and beans.

     Sift all dry ingredients together and add to sugar mixture.  Add apples, raisins, nuts, and vanilla.  Pour into prepared pan and bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until done.  Makes 12 Servings.

Per Serving: 210 Cal; 10 g Total Fat; 25 g Carb; 46 mg Cholesterol; 113 mg Sodium; 60 mg Potassium; 6 g Protein;
3 g Fiber.  Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch/Bread; 2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)

LITTLE GIFTS
(Regalitos)
"The idea for this dessert came from a Mexican restaurant we enjoyed in Houston, " says Velda De La Garza. "While their version had a similar filling in a deep-fried pastry, my version is much lower in fat and calories." Recipe from Healthy Mexican Cooking, by Velda De La Garza, M.S., R.D., ©1995, 2002 by Appletree Press, Inc., www.appletree-press.com/

1/2 cup seedless raisins
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1-1/2 cups water
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp cinnamon
2 firm bananas
2 sheets phyllo dough
2 tsp liquid margarine

     Preheat oven to 350°F.  Defrost phyllo dough according to package directions.

     Add raisins, sugar and water to a medium-sized sauce pan.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat.  Use 2 Tablespoons water to make cornstarch a smooth paste and slowly add to raisins and water.  Stir until thickened.   Add cinnamon and bananas.  Stir until well blended.  Keep warm.

     Brush each phyllo later with margarine and cut into quarters.  Add fruit mixture to the center of each of the four quarters.   Bring up corners and bunch together around fruit mixture to form "bundle."   Bake in 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until golden brown.  Serve warm.  Makes 4 Servings.

Per (2 "Bundle") Serving: 200 Cal; 3 g Total Fat (1/2 g Sat Fat); 00 mg Cholesterol; 88 mg Sodium; 2 g Fiber.  Exchanges: 1/2 Bread; 2 Fruit;
1/2 Fat.

heartbrd.gif (8871 bytes)