toledoblade.com --

(ARA) - In Mexico, the heart of the family resides in the kitchen, where friends and family share the comforts of great, flavorful meals. A number of influences from Mexican and Latin culture have affected Americans in how we celebrate, cook and eat. And more of us, no matter what heritage, are spending more time dining at home with our families. With the popularity of Mexican and Latin dishes on the rise, you can celebrate spending time with family while enjoying an authentic Mexican meal in your own kitchen.

"When I am not in one of my restaurant kitchens, I love creating a meal with my husband using authentic ingredients from our Latin heritage to create approachable and comforting meals to share with our family and friends," says Michelle Bernstein-Martinez, James Beard award-winning chef and author of Cuisine A Latina. "As a chef, I like to use local ingredients, as well as ingredients from other cultures, or inspired by other cultures, to create a layer of flavors. Incorporating Latin cheese varieties is one way I layer in rich authentic ingredients."

Bernstein-Martinez has a few tips and suggestions on how you can create your own Latin experience:

*Add your own twist.
To take a traditional meal and make it your own, incorporate traditional Latin ingredients such as chilies and Mexican cheeses, then add your favorite in-season go-to ingredients. For example, tortilla chips may be a great traditional accompaniment to a cheese dip, but consider adding fresh green onion sticks or sweet potato fries alongside a basket of chips to add variety to your typical chip and dip platter.

* Use authentic ingredients.
Luckily, many cultural influences have made an impact at local grocery chains. Now you can find unique blends of spices, produce and other fresh ingredients without making a special trip to a boutique market.

* Offer a mix of dishes.
To keep conversation lively and guests satisfied, offer an array of dishes and build on each one. Offer a mix of spicy and mild dishes as well as a mix of cold and hot, and keep one or two guest favorites on the table throughout the party. A good table staple should not need reheating or should be kept in a hot-dish to avoid extra work to replenish.

This recipe for a Spicy Cheese Fondue by Bernstein-Martinez is the perfect dish to keep on the table throughout the evening and offers a nice blend of traditional authentic ingredients to serve with tortilla chips or your favorite appetizers.

Spicy Cheese Fondue
1 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste (optional)
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 cup shredded Authentic Mexican Cheese

Directions:
Heat heavy cream in saucepan on high. Add spices and season with salt, if desired. Add cheese and stir until melted. Remove from heat and serve warm. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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