It’s spring and thoughts are moving toward warmer, longer days, flowers, sunshine and Cinco de Mayo! Having food allergies can really impact any holiday, but for me and my fellow Allium allergy compadres, we miss Mexican food! Delicious salsa, mouth-watering guacamole, tacos, refried beans, fajitas, enchiladas, the list goes on and on.  Due to our food allergies and sensitivities, experiencing these kinds of foods outside of our safe home kitchen is a huge challenge.  Over the years, I have attempted to eat out in Latin/Mexican establishments and it is a challenge.  There are some foods that can be eaten safely. Corn chips. Seriously, the risk of cross contamination that can happen in these restaurants is high.  I have safely ordered cheese quesadilla’s with just cheese and for added flavor some plain chopped tomatoes and peppers. Provided no one has used the knife prior to chopping these veggies to chop onions, scallions or garlic.  Alliums have oils that stick to the knife, as well as to cutting boards, frying pans and grills and especially those cast-iron skillets used to serve those sizzling fajitas.

Some restaurants will offer to make guacamole at your table.  With a few minor adjustments (leaving out the onions, scallions, chives and garlic) I can eat this safely.  And I feel confident watching it prepared in front of me.  Often times these restaurants will offer to make fajitas in a separate frying pan omitting the onions and garlic.  Making sure the protein, it’s substitute like tofu or vegetables like portabella mushrooms have not been sitting in a marinade or has been pre-seasoned by the manufacturer is another challenge. My experience is that most shrimp and fresh veggies can be safely served.  Chicken, beef, and pork are usually put in a marinade or seasoned in preparation to be quickly cooked and served.

In my kitchen, I have safely adapted recipes to be both delicious and safely consumed.  Click below for some of my favorites to help you enjoy Cinco de Mayo!

Link for Mexican Dinner Recipes

Link for Shopping List