Cinco De Mayo

Contrary to popular belief Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day... but a celebration of the Mexican army's defeat of the French in the battle of Puebla in 1862. After years of being involved in various wars Mexico was short on cash. When they failed to pay their debt to the French France decided that it was time to start their own Latin-American empire. The battle of Puebla didn't bring an end to the French occupation... but it did boost the morale a bit. It was several years before they managed to rid themselves of the French. It isn't a very big celebration in Mexico unless you happen to be in the state of Puebla... but in the United States it is a huge event especially in Central Texas where I live.


To celebrate we made Fajitas and my daughters went out in the yard to play with the piñata she made at school. She also made one for her sister when she got home so that they both would have a chance to break one.






Pinto Beans

These make a great side dish or filling for tamales or tacos. You can also make these in a slow-cooker. Just throw all the ingredients in a crock pot except the tomatoes and salt and cook the beans all day. Throw the tomatoes and salt in during the last hour or so of cooking time.

1-lb. of pinto beans
several cloves of garlic
1 onion
1-2 bouillon cubes

Sort and wash beans. Place in a large pot and cover with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil and cook 2 minutes and then soak for 1-2 hours. This is the quick soak method…otherwise just soak the beans overnight.
Now you are ready to cook the beans. Add garlic and onions to the water and cook until the beans are almost tender. When the beans are done add bouillon cubes or salt. Add other spices such as cumin and chili powder if you wish... you can even throw in some stewed tomatoes or jalapenos. Be creative.