The December 12th is an important date for Mexicans. It marks the day of Fiesta del Maíz or the Corn Festival. This vibrant and lively festival is a celebration of the rich culture and delicious cuisine of Mexico. From traditional dances and parades to mouth-watering dishes and authentic handicrafts, Fiesta del Maíz is a feast for the senses. The Corn Festival is held in many towns and cities across Mexico, with each one putting their own unique spin on the festivities. One of the most famous corn festivals is held in Jala, in the state of Nayarit, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the crop that has been an integral part of Mexican cuisine for centuries. Jala is known as the ‘corn capital’ of Mexico, making it the perfect place to experience this special celebration. So, why is corn so important to Mexicans? The answer lies in the history of the country and its people. Corn, or ‘maíz’ in Spanish, has been a staple food in Mexico for thousands of years. In fact, evidence shows that corn was cultivated by indigenous tribes in what is now southern Mexico as far back as 9,000 years ago. The Aztecs, who inhabited central Mexico in the 14th-16th centuries, believed that humans were created from corn by the gods. This makes sense when you consider just how important corn was in the Aztec diet – it formed the base of their diet and was used to make everything from tortillas to tamales and even beer. Today, corn remains an essential ingredient in Mexican cuisine. In addition to the traditional dishes of the Aztecs, corn is also used to make popular modern dishes like esquites (a street food snack made of corn kernels, cheese, and spices) and pozole (a hearty soup with hominy corn and pork or chicken). At Fiesta del Maíz, you can sample all sorts of delicious corn-based dishes from different regions of Mexico. Whether you prefer something savory or sweet, there is sure to be something to tantalize your taste buds.
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