The Rise of Mexican Cuisine in the UK
Living in multicultural Britain, we are fortunate to have access to a wide array of cuisines right on our doorstep. Among these, Mexican food has rapidly become a favorite among many. A recent poll by YouGov revealed that fajitas, chilli con carne, and nachos are the top three choices for Britons when it comes to Mexican dishes.
For years, the primary way people experienced Mexican cuisine was through meal kits from brands like Old El Paso. However, over the past five years, there has been a significant increase in the number of Mexican restaurants and takeaways across the UK. According to figures from RenTech Digital, there are over 800 Mexican restaurants in England alone. Popular chains such as Chipotle and Taco Bell, along with homegrown brands like Wahaca, Chiquito, Tortilla, and Las Iguanas, have become familiar fixtures on the High Street. Additionally, independent eateries, food trucks, and pop-ups continue to bring the vibrant and flavorful tastes of Mexico to British shores.
Nutritional Benefits of Traditional Mexican Cuisine
While many enjoy the taste of Mexican food, questions about its health benefits often arise. London-based nutritionist Lily Soutter highlights that traditional Mexican cuisine can be nutritious due to its focus on fresh ingredients and fibre-rich components like beans and rice. However, she warns that some American-favoured 'Tex-Mex' dishes should be consumed in moderation.
Soutter explains: "Ingredients used in traditional Mexican cuisine are often fresh, flavourful, and nutritionally dense. A variety of beans are commonly used in meals and are an excellent source of plant-based protein. Corn is another popular carbohydrate source and is naturally gluten-free."
Another YouGov poll found that Mexican food is popular with vegetarians, largely due to the inclusion of fresh salsa, guacamole, and other nutrient-dense ingredients. "Many dishes are accompanied by fresh salsa, typically made with tomatoes that are a source of heart-friendly lycopene and vitamin C," said Soutter. "Salsas are often low in calories yet full of nutrient-dense ingredients like coriander, onion, garlic, chilli, and lime juice."
Avocado is frequently featured in Mexican cuisine, particularly in dishes like guacamole. It is low in saturated fat but high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, as well as vitamin E, fibre, potassium, and folate. Additionally, the use of herbs and spices like garlic, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, and oregano provides antioxidant benefits.
The Healthiest Choices on a Mexican Menu
If you're looking for a healthy option, grilled chicken and avocado tacos with salsa are a great choice. Grilled dishes often contain less fat than their deep-fried counterparts. "Grilled chicken is an excellent source of protein and B vitamins, while avocado provides fibre and healthy monounsaturated fats," said Soutter. "Served in soft corn tortillas, these tacos offer a good source of carbohydrates, and the salsa adds a nutrient-dense and flavourful kick."
Fajitas are another customizable option, allowing diners to choose lean meats or fish along with plenty of vegetables. "You can choose to skip the sour cream and cheese, which makes the dish lower in fat, saturated fat, and salt," explained Soutter. A typical serving of fajitas contains around 340 calories, with some restaurants offering bread-free versions like lettuce wraps or bowls to further reduce calorie intake.
Pozole, a traditional Mexican stew, includes meat, vegetables, broth, and hominy. "It's often topped with avocado, chillies, lettuce, lime, and cabbage," said Soutter. While generally balanced, some versions can be high in salt, so it's best to opt for lean cuts of meat and plenty of vegetables.
Unhealthier Options to Avoid
Not all Mexican dishes are created equal, and some options should be approached with caution. Chimichangas, for example, are deep-fried burritos that can contain up to 810 calories and more than 40g of fat. "Deep-fried burritos add extra calories and fat to an already energy-dense dish," said Soutter. A healthier alternative would be to bake the burritos instead.
Churros with chocolate sauce are another deep-fried dessert that can be extremely high in calories and fat. "A portion can contain a staggering 982 calories," said Soutter. These should be enjoyed occasionally rather than as a regular part of the diet.
Nachos, often served with melted cheese and sour cream, can easily exceed 661 calories per serving. Quesadillas, while possible to make healthy, often contain large amounts of cheese and can reach up to 874 calories per serve. Refried beans, though made from healthy beans, are often high in saturated fat due to the addition of lard.
Conclusion
Mexican cuisine offers a range of healthy and delicious options, especially when choosing traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. However, it's important to be mindful of how certain dishes are prepared and what ingredients are added. By making informed choices, diners can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican food while maintaining a balanced diet.
