Although I'm not Mexican, I lived in Mexico City as a child and learned to love the country's incredible cuisine. Since a part of my family on my mother's side still lives there, I travel there often and have been lucky enough to try many authentic dishes that are among my favorites. The one thing I've learned about Mexican food throughout the years is that it varies a lot between regions. In other words, the food of the northern states is nothing like the food of the southern ones.
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While many dishes are elaborate and can be time-consuming when it comes to making them, there are many that can become regulars in your dinner rotation. For this gallery, I've gathered 40 traditional dishes that you should try to learn how to make or, at least, that you should try to have in your lifetime. As you'll see, Mexican cuisine is much more than just tacos and quesadillas–and each dish is worth a try. Some meals are quick and easy to make, and they will be loved by your family and friends. Scroll through to learn about some dishes that you will quickly grow to love and maybe even start making on a regular basis.