Authentic Mexican Tripas a la Mexicana Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb of beef tripe
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 large white onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 3 jalapeno peppers, chopped
  • 4 tomatoes, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 avocados, peeled and sliced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by cleaning the beef tripe thoroughly under running water.
  2. Put the tripe in a large pot and fill it with water until it's fully covered. Add salt to taste.
  3. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours or until the tripe is tender.
  4. Drain the tripe and cut it into small pieces.
  5. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  6. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, and sauté until fragrant.
  7. Add the chopped jalapeno peppers, diced tomatoes, chopped green and red bell peppers, and the cooked tripe pieces. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  8. Season with black pepper and additional salt if needed, then cover the pan and cook for about 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
  9. Add the chopped fresh cilantro and stir well.
  10. Serve the Tripas a la Mexicana hot, garnished with avocado slices and lime wedges on the side.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - for boiling the beef tripe
  • Large pan - for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the tripe
  • Chef's knife - for cutting the tripe into small pieces
  • Cutting board - for preparing the vegetables and tripe
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring the ingredients while cooking
  • Measuring spoons - for accurately measuring the salt, black pepper, and other seasonings

Recipe variations

  • Instead of beef tripe, you can use pork tripe or a combination of both.
  • For a spicier version, add some serrano peppers or use a hotter variety of peppers.
  • Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Include diced potatoes or carrots for added texture and flavor.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace the tripe with cooked chickpeas or tofu.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as cumin, oregano, or paprika to customize the flavor profile.
  • Garnish with crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese for a cheesy twist.
  • Serve the tripas a la mexicana with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Recipe overview

Tripas a la Mexicana is a traditional Mexican dish that brings together the robust flavors of beef tripe, fresh vegetables, and spicy jalapenos. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this classic dish right in your home kitchen, complete with a detailed list of ingredients and precise cooking instructions. Expect a hearty and spicy meal that's loaded with textures and flavors. The dish is typically served hot with avocado slices and lime wedges on the side for a refreshing contrast. Whether you're new to Mexican cuisine or an experienced cook looking to try something different, this Tripas a la Mexicana recipe is sure to be a delightful culinary adventure.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook the beef tripe? - It takes about 2 hours to cook the beef tripe until it becomes tender.
  2. Can I use pork tripe instead of beef tripe? - Yes, you can substitute pork tripe for the beef tripe if you prefer.
  3. Are the jalapeno peppers spicy? - Yes, jalapeno peppers are known to have some level of spiciness. However, you can adjust the amount of jalapenos according to your preference for heat.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? - Absolutely! This recipe is quite flexible, and you can add other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini if you like.
  5. How many servings does this recipe make? - This recipe typically serves 4-6 people, but you can adjust the amounts of ingredients to suit your needs.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? - Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It tends to develop even more flavor when reheated.
  7. What can I serve with Tripas a la Mexicana? - It is commonly served with warm tortillas, rice, beans, and a side of salsa or guacamole.
  8. Can I freeze leftovers? - Yes, you can freeze any leftover Tripas a la Mexicana in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - For boiling the beef tripe
  • Large pan - For sautéing the vegetables and cooking the tripas
  • Knife - For cutting the beef tripe and chopping the vegetables
  • Cutting board - To provide a surface for cutting and chopping
  • Spatula - For stirring and flipping the ingredients in the pan
  • Tongs - For handling the hot tripe and serving
  • Ladle - To scoop and serve the tripas
  • Plates - For serving the Tripas a la Mexicana
  • Avocado slicer - Optional tool for slicing and scooping the avocados
  • Lime squeezer - Optional tool for juicing the lime wedges

Origin stories

Tripas a la Mexicana is a popular dish in Mexico, particularly in the northern regions. Its main ingredient, beef tripe, has been a staple in Mexican cuisine since pre-Hispanic times. This humble ingredient gained use out of necessity; nothing of the animal was wasted after a hunt or a slaughter. The tripe was cleaned, cooked, and served hot, often with a variety of local spices and vegetables, turning a simple meal into a feast of flavor. While it may be an acquired taste for some, Mexicans love this dish for its deep flavors and its reflection of a rich culinary history that values resourcefulness and creativity. Today, it's widely enjoyed throughout the country and has crossed borders to become a beloved part of Mexican cuisine all over the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.