1. Mexico

2. CULTURE ► The Aztecs were the original inhabitants of Mexico. In 1520, a Spanish Conquistador named Hernando Cortez took control of Mexico. Mexico today is a combination of Aztec and Spanish cultures.

3. LIFESTYLE ► Mexican homes are simple with hand- crafted furniture and dishes. ► Traditionally, Mexican families are close-knit. Children learn at an early age to help out around the house, with siblings and possibly income.

4. Holidays ► Most Mexicans are Roman Catholic ► Many of the holidays celebrated center around religious celebrations. ► The Feast of Epiphany on January 6 th  This day celebrates the coming of three kings to see the infant Jesus. ► People share a special supper, which includes a ring-shaped cake with a tiny plastic baby baked inside.

5. Galette de Rois or Kings Cake ► The person who gets the baby is to host a tamales party for all who are present.

6. Days of the Dead ► Mexicans believe dead souls return to visit the living between October 31 and November 2. ► Called the Days of the Dead ► Families set up altars in the corners of their homes with candles, photos and favorite foods and drinks of the dead loved ones.

7. Agriculture ► Corn is major crop ► Beans are second ► Other important crops include sugarcane, coffee, tomatoes, green peppers, peas, melons, citrus fruits, strawberries and cacao bean. ► In the North cattle are raised and wheat is grown

8. Mexican Cuisine Aztec and the Spaniards made contributions to Mexican cuisine. ► The Aztecs: chocolate, vanilla, corn, peppers, peanuts, tomatoes, avocados, squash, beans, sweet potatoes, pineapple and papayas. ► Aztecs boiled, broiled or steamed their food. ► The Spanish : oil, wine, cinnamon, cloves, rice, wheat, beef and chicken. With the introduction of oil many of the foods could be fried. ► Frying is an important part of Mexican cooking.

9. Characteristic Foods of Mexico ► Corn, beans, and peppers are staple ingredients in Mexican cuisine

10. Tortilla ► A flat unleavened bread made from cornmeal and water. ► EnchiladaBurritoTaco

11. Guacamole ► A spread made from mashed avocado, tomato, and onion. Served with tortillas.

12. Moles ► From an Aztec word meaning chili-flavored sauce ► Mole is a complex sauce made from chilies, almonds, raisins, garlic, sesame seeds, onions, tomatoes, cinnamon, cloves, coriander seeds, anise seeds, chicken stock, and lastly unsweetened chocolate.

13. Desserts ► Early Spanish and Portuguese cooks influenced Mexican desserts that use large amounts of egg and sugar, such the flan.

14. Mexican Meal Patterns ► Desayuno- a substantial breakfast with fruit, tortillas, eggs or meat with coffee or (hot) chocolate ► Comida- Main meal of day, served between 1-3 Six courses are typically served Six courses are typically served Normally followed by a siesta (rest period) ► Merienda- a light snack, served around 5 or 6 o’clock includes sweet breads, fruit & coffee ► Cena- (supper) is served between 8 & 10 o’clock Similar to comida but lighter and smaller.