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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
Fun Ideas From South of the Border 
(Family Features) - What better way to welcome spring than with a lively Cinco de
Mayo celebration for the whole family? Many people think Cinco
de Mayo celebrates Mexican independence, but in fact, festivities
on the Fifth of May commemorate an important Mexican army
victory. Here in the United States, celebrations often include
parades, piñatas and, of course, a huge feast the whole family
can enjoy.
Why are Cinco de Mayo parties so popular? Because they
provide the perfect occasion to enjoy some of the best culture,
music, food and activities that Mexico has to offer. Take this
opportunity to teach your family a bit more about Cinco de Mayo
and Mexico with these ideas for activities, decorations and food.
Olé!
Activities: Having a piñata is very traditional for a Mexican-themed
party, and they're available at party supply stores. Fill
with candy or other prizes and let the kids have some fun!
Decorations: There are many great ways to decorate for Cinco de
Mayo. Mexican flags and decorations in red, white and green are
very popular. Tissue paper flowers, sombreros, maracas and other
brightly colored Mexican-themed items are easy to find in party
stores or make at home.
Food: There are hundreds of terrific Mexican recipes to choose
from that are perfect for Cinco de Mayo. It's easy to make
traditional Mexican foods from everyday products like Albers corn
meal and canned green chiles. Sopes, or corn meal cakes, make
wonderful appetizers for a fun fiesta with kids and adults alike.
Don't limit these to just one day of the year — they are fabulous
year-round!
Sopes
1 cup Albers Yellow Corn Meal1 cup masa harina flour (Mexican corn masa mix) 1/4 cup shortening or lard 1 cup warm water 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, divided 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans, warmed 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack or crumbled cotija cheese Topping suggestions: taco sauce, sliced pickled jalapeños, sour cream and/orchopped green onions (optional) PLACE corn meal and flour in large bowl; cut in shortening with pastry blender or two knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, kneading until smooth. Add chilies; mix well. Form dough into 16 small balls. Pat each ball into 3- inch patty; place on wax paper. HEAT 1 teaspoon oil in large skillet over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Cook patties 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown, adding additional oil as needed to prevent sticking. TOP with beans, cheese, taco sauce, jalapeño slices, sour cream and green onions. For more Cinco de Mayo recipes such as Tamale Pie or Fiesta Corn Bread, visit VeryBestBaking.com; in Spanish at MiCocinaLatina.com. SOURCE: Albers Corn Meal  Recipes | Food Articles | Food Safety | Culinary Schools Copyright ©2008 culinary.net Before using materials from this site, please read our usage agreement.
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