Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with recipes from around the world 🌎🪅

Established by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968, the 15th of September to the 15th of October marks a month long tribute to Hispanic and Latin Americans, celebrating their influence on American history and culture.

Here at Cookpad, we want to celebrate the rich and diverse selection of Hispanic foods cooked in American households across the country!

What's the difference between Latino and Hispanic?

Often used interchangeably, these two terms actually mean very different things! Hispanic relates to language, and refers to people and culture descended from Spanish-speaking countries, such as Mexico and Spain, as well as Spanish-speaking Latin American countries and Caribbean territories.

On the other hand, Latino, Latina or Latinx are terms that relate to geography rather than language, and refer to the people and culture related to Latin American countries, including Mexico, Cuba and Brazil, but not Spain.

But enough with semantics... let's get cooking with some traditional dishes from Hispanic countries around the world! 🌎

Spain 🇪🇸

It was early explorers and colonisers from Spain that began the spread of Spanish language, culture and food to the Americas, mixing with native flavors and ingredients. Nowadays, traditional Spanish dishes can be found across the United States, including the popular paella or deep-fried churros.

Find more Spanish dishes here

Mexico 🇲🇽

It is estimated that two thirds of Hispanic Americans are from Mexican origin, and it's easy to see how much Mexican culture has influenced American cuisine! From sizzling street food to well-known favorites like tacos, enchiladas, burritos and quesadillas... what's your favorite Mexican dish?

Search for more Mexican recipes

Caribbean 🏝️

Spanish-speaking countries in the Caribbean including Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico have strong historical connections to the United States. Their flavorful dishes - using nutritious ingredients such as plantains, rice, beans, pork and chicken - are cooked in American homes nation-wide.

Search for more Caribbean recipes

Central and South America 🌎

From Colombian arepas to Peruvian ceviche, Spanish-speaking countries in Central and South America offer a huge variety of culinary delights!

It's debated that empanadas first emerged in Spain or Portugal in the Middle Ages... but nowadays these baked or fried stuffed pastries are loved across the Americas, especially Argentina.

Search for more Latin American dishes

¡Feliz cocina! We hope you enjoy these recipes!

If you tried any of these recipes, share the love and post a Cooksnap for a chance to get featured in our weekly Newsletter or on our Instagram page!

What are your favorite Hispanic dishes? Share your recipe with us on Cookpad!