An authentic Day of the Dead celebration includes a traditional Mexican meal. Creating the perfect event requires an appreciation for its history.

The sacred holiday of Día de los Muertos is both reflection and remembrance. It honors departed loved ones, family, culture, and ancestral traditions. It is exuberant with vibrant colors and festive gatherings, yet sober in its observance of lifting a veil between life and death.

Between Halloween and early November are two days of reunion. First, Dia de los Angelitos allows children to return, followed by Dia de los Difuntos, which summons departed adults. Ofrendas of photos, flowers, and treats left on altars entice the spirits on their journeys. At noon on the second day, Dia de los Muertos observances begin. Cities commemorate with lavish parades while loved ones upkeep gravesites and decorate them with marigolds, candies, and gifts. 

With its origins in their native culture, Mexican cuisine is synonymous with the holiday. Deliciously and lovingly prepared, these traditional favorites should be a must for every party host.

Our list will provide links to full recipes from Food52.com

Main Fare

Tamales: Food for long nights awaiting loved ones, tamales contain different fillings inside a steamed corn husk. Try Chicken Tamales With Salsa Verde, Pork Tamales, or a Mushroom Tamale Pie as a delicious main dish.

Other main dish options include  Pozole (stew of hominy and meat), Tortilla Soup, or Entomatadas.

Moles: Burned and blackened chiles and their seeds creates this dark, rich flavored sauce. Usually ingredient-laden and time-consuming, Food52 chefs have created this simpler Mole Sencillo. 

Guacamole: Not limited to the holiday, this classic is complimentary with meals. Serve with fresh pita or tortilla chips.

Sweet Treats

Pan de Muerto (Day of the Dead Bread) Also known as pan dulce or sweet bread, this traditional spongey, yeast-based egg bread is a must. 

Tamales Azules De Elote: Spiced brown sugar, chile syrup, and rich crema make these blue corn masa tamales an unexpected treasure.

Classic Flan with Vanilla: A traditional and sweet dessert, this flan recipe includes caramel syrup.

You can purchase delights such as Calaveras, Calabaza en Tacha, and Alegrias candy at most local Mexican groceries.

Libations

Authentic holiday drinks are plentiful, a sampling of which appears below.

Horchata: Agave adds sweetness. Cinnamon offers a hint of spice. The combination of brown rice and blanched almonds creates a festive, non-alcoholic drink. 

Tequila Old Fashioned: A spin on two classics, tequila and agave replace bourbon and syrup to create a modern Muertos treat.

Champurrado (Mexican Hot Chocolate-Ish) The ‘ish’ is the chipotle that gives this chocolate drink its infamous kick. 

May sharing in the beauty and mystery of this holiday bring joy to your family, friends, and returning loved ones.

photo credits: pexels: Mikhail Nilov, unsplash: Gerardo Covarrubias, pexels: Ernesto Lua

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