Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) is a minor, regional, Mexican holiday that has become, in the United States, a celebration of all things Mexican. The occasion is a great opportunity for a party. Just make sure to plan ahead and don’t skimp on the margarita mix. Below are some ideas to make sure that your Cinco de Mayo gathering is a success:
What is Cinco de Mayo?
Cinco de Mayo (literally, the Fifth of May in Spanish) commemorates the defeat of the French army by the Mexican army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The battle was significant because the French, who had not been defeated in nearly 50 years, outnumbered the Mexicans by two-to-one. The victory also led the way for Mexican independence, which is celebrated on September 16.
Food and Drink
Anything Mexican will work for your Cinco de Mayo party. Since many Americans are shy about spicy and/or unfamiliar food, it’s a good idea to include a few “standard” foods, such as guacamole or tacos, with your more exotic fare. A fun way to celebrate the day is by starting early with a breakfast party. “Huevos Rancheros,” a Mexican favorite, are easy to make. Top a flour tortilla with a mixture of chorizo sausage, onions and peppers. Top that with a fried egg and sprinkle grated cheddar and Monterrey Jack cheese on the egg and put the dish under the broiler until the cheese has melted.
For an afternoon party, consider setting up a taco bar, where guests can assemble their own tacos. Put out separate dishes or ground beef cooked with taco seasoning; fajita-spiced, cooked and diced chicken; grated cheese; diced tomatoes; multi-colored, diced peppers; and shredded lettuce. Make condiments like salsa, guacamole and sour cream available.
For an appetizer, consider a Mexican flag dip. To create this festive dish, make “stripes” of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa to resemble the flag in a rectangular baking dish. Top with black olives and rosemary sprigs in the pattern of the eagle on the Mexican flag. Serve with flour or corn tortilla chips.
Of course, margaritas are the standard beverage for a Cinco de Mayo party. This mixture of tequila, triple sec, lime juice and orange liqueur can be pretty potent, however. For something a little lighter, consider making pitchers of sangria, using a fruity red wine (like a Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais) and adding cut fruit (oranges, limes, and lemons) to the mix.
Decorating for Cinco de Mayo
Decorations for your Cinco de Mayo party should be fun and festive. Use the colors of the Mexican flag–green, red and white–with draped crepe paper, confetti scattered on the buffet table and small Mexican flags (available at party supply stores) adorning the serving dishes. If you have any terre cotta carafes or serving bowls, those would also lend a south-of-the-border flair.
Hosting a Cinco de Mayo event doesn’t have to be expensive or a lot of work. This holiday was made for simple, tasty food; a few drinks; and some good friends.
Other Food and Wine Articles by Sandy Mitchell
How to Host a Margarita Party
What to Drink with Dessert
Where to Hunt for Morel Mushrooms
