Not all Mexican food is spicy. In fact, there are many options for those with a more sensitive palate. While spice is an important part of Mexico’s food identity enhancing flavor and creating balance, however, it is not essential to every dish.
Hot peppers are the soul of many recipes, but they vary greatly in spice level and purpose. Some peppers add a sweet touch, while others, especially when grilled, bring depth and smokiness to a dish.
There are also many traditional recipes where the spice or salsa is served on the side, allowing each person to adjust the heat to their taste. And yes, many non-spicy dishes are just as delicious!
LEVEL YOUR SPICE
To understand spice levels, we need to talk about the Scoville scale. Created by Wilbur Scoville in 1912, this scale measures the amount of capsaicin—the chemical compound responsible for a pepper’s heat.
- A pimiento has 0 Scoville units.
- A jalapeño ranges between 2,500 to 8,000 units.
- An habanero can reach up to 100,000 units.
This scale helps guide your spice journey and allows you to choose the level you’re comfortable with. Discover the magic of Mexico City!
MORE THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE
Mexico is home to over 60 types of peppers, each with unique characteristics. Peppers can be used fresh, dried, or grilled—each preparation offering a different flavor profile.
Here are some popular examples:
- Jalapeño: Medium spice, typically eaten fresh or pickled. Versatile and perfect for salsas. Also common in Argentina.
- Chipotle: A dried and smoked jalapeño. Smoky and slightly sweet—great for marinades and sauces.
- Guajillo: A key ingredient in red pozole, it gives the dish its rich color and a mild, pleasant heat.
- Poblano: Can range from mild to spicy. It’s the star of the famous Chiles en Nogada, and is also used in rajas and tacos.
- Habanero (also called rocoto in Argentina): Extremely spicy, but with a unique fruity aroma.
A TRIP YOU’LL NEVER FORGET
Loving spicy food is often an acquired taste, but once you learn how to manage and enjoy it, you might not want to go back! If you’re just beginning your spicy food adventure, here are some must-try Mexican dishes:
- Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Typically served with salsa on the side so you can control the heat. The same goes for quesadillas and sopes.
- Enchiladas Verdes or Rojas: Tortillas filled with chicken or pork, covered in green or red salsa.
- Chilaquiles: Similar to enchiladas, but made with tortilla chips soaked in salsa.
- Mole: One of Mexico’s most iconic dishes. Its rich sauce is made with different peppers and sometimes includes chocolate or peanuts. A true culinary gem!
FINAL TIPS
Our top recommendation? Don’t be afraid to ask questions, experiment, and try new flavors. If you’re traveling in Mexico, tasting dishes with a bit of spice might completely transform your food experience.
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