Prep Tips: Toppings

Toppings are such a personal preference and are usually different for everyone. Even within our own family, the way toppings are chosen and layered always vary and are quite personal. Here are the basics to consider and a few things to try that may heighten the experience for you and your family. So have fun and be creative!

Shredding, Dicing, Grating and Dollop

Iceberg Lettuce & Cabbage

Hand shredded lettuce and cabbage is without question a definite recommendation! Though it takes a little more time and effort, it makes all the difference. In our family, the one who could hand shred lettuce the fastest and the finest was king or queen!

Cutting through the stem, cut the head of lettuce or cabbage in half.
On a cutting board, place flat side down. Holding the stem side firmly, place a sharp knife about 1/8th inch the edge and cut down toward the cutting board. Repeat until you have shredded the desired amount of lettuce.
Place shredded lettuce or cabbage in a serving bowl, fill with cold water and drain twice to thoroughly wash. Hint: To prevent browning, fill the container with cold water until lettuce or cabbage is covered and store in the refrigerator.

Pico de Gallo or Fresh Tomato

A zesty blend of vibrant fresh tomato, onion, jalapeno and cilantro which is a perfect accompaniment with any Mexican meal! Time permitting, homemade Pico de Gallo is perfection. This will give you the ability to choose the quality of the produce and control the amount of each ingredient. However, store-bought is a good option if needed. Hint: We always add extra Cilantro. Pico is also a wonderful addition to omelets, mixed in guacamole and dips, or serve with chips as a chunky salsa!

Avocado

Most commonly eaten as a guacamole, this smooth, buttery fruit is a good source of antioxidants and contain no saturated fat! In our family, you will always find a plate of avocado sliced or diced dusted with season salt in our mix of topping. It is also a wonderful addition to soups and stews when added just before serving. Hint: Use a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

Crema or Sour Cream

A thickened cream similar to Sour Cream, but not as tangy. If you can find Crema, it is the authentic way to go! Hint: In our family, my aunt makes a wonderful desert mixing Crema with peaches, a little cinnamon and sugar…It’s delicious!

Mexican Cheese

Freshly grated or crumbled Mexican cheeses make a huge difference in the quality of your meal. Here are a few authentic suggestions along with alternatives if Mexican cheeses are not readily available to you:

Chihuahua - A soft Mexican cheese, perfect for grating or melting. Alternatives: Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack cheese – Common cheeses ranging from mild to extra sharp.
Cotija - A hard, strong flavored Mexican cheese. Alternative: Parmesan – An easy to find Italian cheese.
Queso Fresco - A mild, fresh, crumbly Mexican cheese. Alternative: Feta – An easy to find
Greek cheese.