Another Cinco de Mayo is upon us and Americans seem to take full advantage of the opportunity to indulge in Mexican food and margaritas in recognition of the holiday.  However, what is interesting is that many Americans do not even know what Cinco de Mayo represents or what is being celebrated, sentiments echoed by Kathie Lee Gifford this morning on the Today show. 

So for clarification, ID2T crew would first like to educate you on the history and importance of Cinco de Mayo, which will give you the full justification to go ahead and eat, drink, and celebrate for all the right reasons.  Second, in honor of Cinco de Mayo, we’ll be sharing one of our favorite traditional margarita recipes to enjoy as you celebrate.

The holiday of Cinco De Mayo, The 5th Of May, commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at The Battle Of Puebla in 1862 during the Franco-Mexican war (1861-1867).  It is not the celebration of Mexican independence as inaccurately thought by many.  Mexico had actually already gained its independence from Spain in September 1821.  The victory was highly lauded as the Mexican forces were severely outnumbered and took down the French forces.  While it is mainly a regional holiday in Mexico, celebrated primarily in the State of Puebla, where the battle ensued, in the U.S., Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a nationwide celebration of Mexican heritage and culture, but also, as with most holidays in the U.S., is exceedingly commercially promoted. 

So now that you know why we celebrate, here is how you can celebrate with a perfect recipe for the National drink of Mexico – The Margarita.  We like to keep it fresh and simple with the basic, traditional ingredients which are silver Tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup.  For the perfect mix, add 2oz Tequila, 2oz lime juice (about 3 limes), half an ounce of simple syrup, and about 8 ice cubes or crushed ice into your shaker.  Shake well, at least 10-12 good shakes, and strain into a margarita glass.  Salt or no salt on rim is up to you.

Viva Mexico!!!