As with all food cultures, Mexican food is ever-evolving. The country is enormous, and it’s composed of many regions, each with its own staple foods, specialty dishes, and unique ingredients. 

Food in Mexico is a celebration in itself, the most special moment of the day is gathering around the table and going out on Sundays to grab a snack or to enjoy local street food is customary. 

Mexican food is better known for their savory dishes: tacos, enchiladas, and mole are recognized worldwide, but people in this country have a very peculiar sweet tooth.

Mexican sweets are immensely varied and come in all shapes, flavors and colors. From dried and candied fruits to dairy-based candies, from spicy treats to ice cream. 

The weather in Mexico is more often than not warm, which makes popsicles, ice pops, and ice creams coveted snacks. This is all you need to know about Mexican ice cream and the mysterious Mexican fried ice cream.

Frozen Treats in Mexico

As with any other food category, Mexico has a universe of frozen and cold treats, but we can break them down in four: Paletas, Nieves, popsicles, and ice cream.

Paletas

Paletas are ice pops. Blocks of flavored ice solidified around a wooden stick that serves as a handle. This treat is not unique to Mexico, but it might be its best rendition around.

Mexico is a developing country, and ice pops are cheap. That, while adding that Mexico has a colorful bounty of fresh fruit, means that paletas are not only economical, icy snacks but are made with the finest, ripest fruit on the planet. Water-based or dairy-based, paletas are a real treat. 

Nieves

Nieves are like sorbet. These water-based ice products are made by freezing flavored water while stirring to avoid large crystals to form (this is often done manually in wooden vats.) The result is naturally flavored snow. Again, the quality of the produce, from limes to strawberries, makes nieves an extraordinary product.

Popsicles

Popsicles, which are basically clear plastic bags filled with flavored ice, are often homemade and sold outside schools or in parks. 

Ice Cream

Ice cream is different, it’s a modern cold dessert brought from Europe to Mexico at some point in the troubled history of the country. This dessert treat is always dairy-based and has a creamy and silky texture. Not very different from ice cream from any other place in the world, it has gained a place in people’s hearts. It is now served in traditional paleterias and heladerias along with the other icy treats mentioned above. 

A fifth iced Mexican treat is the Mexican fried ice cream, and although it’s one of the most popular desserts in Mexican restaurants around the world, it is seldom seen in Mexico; its origin is more mysterious than you might think. Let’s take a deeper look at one of the most popular dessert treats in Latin America. 

The Birth of the Mexican Fried Ice Cream

Migration from Mexico to the United States, both legal and illegal, has taken place for centuries. The United States is home to the largest Mexican community outside of Mexico. 

People travel light when crossing the border looking for a better life, but they always take with them their traditions and love for their native food.

Mexicans arrived at the US and began cooking their family recipes with American ingredients, the food transformed, and a new cuisine was born. One of nachos, melted cheese, hard shell tacos, and fajitas.

Mexican restaurants thrived in the states since the 1920s, and although the food wasn’t anything like the one back home, their dishes became a synonym with Mexican food. Chi Chi’s restaurant, a chain of Mexican-American food, was founded in 1975 in Minneapolis, and it wasn’t long before they had hundreds of locations throughout the country.

The good folks at Chi Chi’s specialized in fried food, and somewhere in the eighties launched a dessert that would change the way Mexican food was perceived forever: the Mexican Fried Ice Cream. God bless Chi Chi’s. 

 A large vanilla ice cream scoop is breaded with corn flakes crumbs, flavored with cinnamon and deep-fried for just a few seconds to get a crunchy, golden-brown exterior without melting the cold core. It’s then served on a hardened tortilla bowl, embellished with silky whipped cream, drizzled with honey and topped with a cherry. It sounds lovely, isn’t it? 

Probably inspired by the Baked Alaska Dessert invented around the same time, this new dessert gained a spot in history, in the most unusual way.

Make Your Own Mexican Fried Ice Cream

You didn’t think we’d give you a story lesson without teaching you how to make a delicious Mexican frozen treat, did you? That wouldn’t be fair at all.

This recipe is influenced by the original Chi Chi’s recipe; if done right, it will bring enticing memories of the now gone but never forgotten Mexican food chain.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 flour tortillas
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of cinnamon
• 4 large scoops of vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup of crumbled cornflakes
• Ready-to-use whipped cream
• Maraschino cherries for garnish
• Enough vegetable oil to deep fry

Instructions

• Mix the sugar and the cinnamon and place in a small bowl.
• Scoop the ice cream and roll it into the sugar-cinnamon mixture.
• Bread the coated ice cream ball in the cornflake crumbs.
• Place the balls inside the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
• Deep fry the tortillas in the shape of a bowl (using a long spoon)
• Before serving, deep fry the ice cream balls for 2 to 5 seconds.
• Serve over the tortilla bowl and decorate with whipping cream. 
• Top with a cherry.

Enjoy!

Final thoughts

Good food can come from anywhere, even from unexpected places like Minnesota. The Mexican ice cream dessert is now served all around the earth. It is a reminder that food, when done right, doesn’t need a cultural identity tag. It’s okay for food to just be food. Fried ice cream is delicious and that’s that. 

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Brazil is the largest country in South America, and it is absolutely stunning. It boasts beaches, mountains, and lush forests, with landscapes and natural resources as varied as the cultural diversity of its people. As far as Latin America goes, this is one everyone needs to check out. 

If you’re considering a move from the USA to Brazil, it would be useful to brush up on some vital information to “know-before-you-go.” This knowledge will empower you for the move, protecting you from any unpleasant culture shock and unexpected financial pressures. 

In this article, we aim to put you in the know, with essential information on the cost of living in Brazil vs. the USA. We will equip you with general information as well as tips for doing business in Brazil. 

Cost of Living in Brazil

It surprises many to discover that this South American country is rather expensive. There are variations, with cities more expensive to than rural villages, for example, but many costs are still elevated.

Accommodation, manufactured goods, and transportation are expensive, with food costs depending primarily on whether you eat at home or in a restaurant. Services are more affordable, however, because of the country’s low labor costs. 

While Brazil lags behind most of Western Europe and the USA in terms of economic development, city life and high salaries still afford expats a decent quality of life with access to most modern conveniences. The country has made significant strides to elevate its peoples by improving their standards of living and income levels, but Brazilians have a wide disparity in the wealth distribution. 

This inequality problem has unfortunately resulted in incredibly high crime rates, too, especially within the larger cities, like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo. It is concentrated mainly in the infamous informal settlements known as favelas. 

Brazil is still one of South America’s leading economic powers, however. It is a BRICS country with the beautiful Amazon forest within its borders and picturesque beaches. 

International English-speaking schools exist, but it is advisable to learn some Portuguese. Most people do not speak fluent English, with language is one of the significant influences on the Brazil vs. United States culture gaps. 

At the current exchange rate of 1 USD to 4.13 BRL, let’s explore the daily costs of living in this Latin country.  

Rent and Housing

Rental accommodation is expensive, and this aspect will be the most significant expense. The average rental costs $605 to $730 per month for a one to two-bedroom apartment in the city. 

Education 

Education is on par with rental and housing costs. Public schools are generally not well regarded, and private and international schools cost a pretty penny. Daycare for a toddler averages $283 per month, and the average annual fees of an international middle school are $6,053 per student.

Groceries 

General groceries, such as milk, chicken, eggs, bread, and rice, are moderately priced. 

• $0.84 for a liter of milk 
• $1.45 for a loaf of bread 
• $0.68 for a 1.5-liter bottle of water 
• $3.10 for a pack of chicken breasts. 

Eating out, though, is more expensive. A Big Mac meal will cost $6.60, and a three-course meal at a restaurant averages $18.20. 

Local beer and wine are reasonable. For example, a 500ml bottle of local beer is $1.17, and a mid-range bottle of wine is $7.50. Imported liquor, however, is a splurge at $2.65 for a 300ml can of beer. 

Cigarettes are not cheap either, with a pack of Marlboro’s at $2.20.

Utilities and Telecommunication

Utilities and internet costs are moderately priced. Expect to pay $0.30 per minute for a mobile-to-mobile call, and $25 on average for an uncapped monthly internet package. Utilities average $60 per month for a small household. 

Transportation

Transportation costs are high. Gasoline costs $1.10 per liter, and a monthly pass on public transport costs approximately $46.

Cost of Living in the United States

The United States is the world’s most developed economy, and the cost of living is relatively high. The level of convenience and availability of essential services, however, is top-notch. You will easily access schools, transportation, medical care, amenities such as grocery shopping, and entertainment.

So, how does the cost of living in Brazil vs. the USA compare? 

Rent and Housing

Rental accommodation is expensive. Expect to pay an average of $3000 per month for a one to two-bedroom apartment in one of the major cities like New York or Los Angeles.

Education 

Education costs are high when it comes to elementary education, too. Public schools are well-equipped, but private and international schools are reserved for the wealthy. Many families opt for one parent to stay at home and look after the children, as daycare costs are exorbitant.

Expect to pay $800 per month for daycare and $16,000 a year for one child at middle school. If you are considering an international school, you will be paying $40,000 per year for one enrollment. 

Groceries 

Groceries such as milk, chicken, eggs, bread, and rice are moderately priced. 

• a liter of milk costs $1.14 
• a loaf of bread costs $3.88 
• a 1.5-liter bottle of water costs $2.31. 
• a pack of chicken breasts costs $12.99

Eating out is expensive. A Big Mac meal will cost you $9.00, and you’ll pay $20 for a three-course meal at an average restaurant.

Local beer and wine are also quite expensive; a 500ml bottle of local beer will cost you $2.16, and an average bottle of wine $15. Cigarettes are even pricier, and a pack of Marlboro’s costs a whopping $14.50.

Utilities and Telecommunication

Telecommunication costs are lower at $0.08 per minute for a mobile-to-mobile call. You will pay $60 for uncapped monthly internet, but the Mbps is impressive in this connected society. 

Utilities average $150 per month for a small household. 

Transportation

Transportation costs are reasonable, and the USA is a country of cars and interstate highways, like the infamous Route 66. Gasoline costs $0.80 per liter, and a monthly pass on public transport costs approximately $127—three times higher than what you’d pay in Brazil.

Cost of Living in the United States vs. Brazil

How does the cost of living in Brazil vs. the USA compare? It’s 35% cheaper overall to live in Brazil. Access to certain services and conveniences are limited, however, compared to the United States. 

Living in the United States, you’ll pay on average twice as much for groceries, three times more for education and childcare, four times more for housing, and six times more for public transportation. 

The hospitality industry exhibits the widest disparity at 77% more to eat out in the United States than in Brazil.

In the United States, however, you will have easier access to elementary public schools, higher internet speeds, convenient grocery shopping, and better transportation infrastructure. The medical care and entertainment standards are both higher in the United States.

If you’re considering moving to Brazil for business, one of the best tips for doing business in Brazil is to learn Portuguese. It will be easier to make a professional first impression as great weight is placed on verbal communication within the culture.

You must also exhibit a lot of patience in Brazil as business negotiations take time. Meetings often start and end after the allotted time, for example. 

And don’t forget to seal your deal with a cup of coffee! When in the largest coffee producing country in the world, do as the Brazilians do and bask in the coffee culture.

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Many people make the mistake of lumping Spanish and Mexican cuisine into the same group. While these two nationalities have some similarities related to both their cultures and their food, they are two very different culinary worlds.

When it comes to Spanish food vs. Mexican food, there are a few fundamental differences to keep in mind. For instance, Spanish food draws inspiration from Mediterranean cooking, and it has many dishes that feature seafood. Spanish cuisine was significantly influenced by several other cultures throughout the country’s long history, including the Persians and the Romans.

Mexican cuisine, on the other hand, is based on the Mesoamerican culinary tradition. While it is true that Spanish culture heavily influenced Mexican cuisine, Mexican dishes tend to be much spicier and feature meat from land-based animals rather than seafood. Latin American cuisine, including Mexican food, uses intense spices and flavors which set it apart from the milder, complex flavor profile of many traditional Spanish dishes.

There are also a handful of strong similarities between these two cooking styles. Rice is a main staple within their recipes, and both rely on chicken, pork, and beef to make some of their most iconic dishes. Both traditions also use tortillas, but the Spanish version is egg-based rather than being corn flour-based like its Mexican counterpart.

Spanish Breakfast vs Mexican Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and you’re sure to find something great whether you decide to go in the Spanish or Mexican direction. Both cultures have their unique breakfast foods as well as their own eating schedules, so it’s essential to know the differences between them.

With Spanish breakfast foods, you can typically expect to start your day with a cafe con leche (coffee with milk) and either something hearty or something sweet. Toasts and sandwiches made with freshly baked bread, meat, and cheese, are typically eaten with olive oil. You can also indulge your sweet tooth with something sweet like an almond croissant, or even churros dipped in chocolate.

As for Mexican breakfast foods, the general concept is similar to Spanish culture. Many people like to wake up by sipping a coffee or hot chocolate alongside a piece of pan dulce (sweet bread). If you’re looking for something a bit more filling, you shouldn’t miss out on huevos rancheros. This famous breakfast dish features fried eggs, fresh veggies, and tomato salsa on top of a corn tortilla.

Although Spanish and Mexican breakfasts each have their dishes and unique twists, they have a lot in common too. Both countries have warm climates, which allows for the growth of a lot of fresh fruits making fresh-squeezed juice plentiful.  Whether you prefer coffee and a pastry or fresh juice with something heartier and egg-based, you can’t go wrong with either culinary tradition.

The Difference Between Spanish and Mexican Desserts

Some of the most famous Spanish desserts are almond based, including polvorones (almond cookies) and turrón (Moorish almond candy). The Spanish are also big on custard-like desserts, such as their cinnamon-topped Spanish custard and sugary Calatan Cream.

In terms of Mexican desserts, you should try Arroz con Leche (rice with sweet milk), pineapple empanadas, or a sweet fruit popsicle. Most of their baked goods, such as cakes and cookies, are flour-based rather than rice-based like their Spanish counterparts. Flan and churros are also quintessential Mexican desserts, but they are popular within the Spanish dessert tradition as well. 

All in all, the most typical Spanish desserts tend to be cakes, cookies, or creamy treats. Whereas the Mexican dessert tradition incorporates sweet empanadas and fresh fruit popsicles into the mix. Mexican cuisine does put a unique twist on a handful of desserts derived from the Spanish culinary tradition. It also has plenty of desserts uniquely associated solely with Mexican dessert culture.

Lunch and Dinner

In Spain, lunch is the main meal of the day. Usually, it’s enjoyed over several courses. Lunch in Spain typically includes a light soup, some fresh fish or meat dish, a salad, a light dessert, and a coffee or digestif to finish. The large meal usually lasts for an hour and is followed by a short mid-day nap before returning to work.

Traditionally, Spanish dinners take place very late (around 9 PM) and are considerably lighter than lunch. A light dish made from fish or meat alongside veggies or rice is typical. The entree is then often followed by a light dessert such as custard or a small pastry.

Mexican lunch (La Comida), is served between two and four in the afternoon and is the most substantial meal of the day. Like Spanish culinary culture, it features several courses and allows for a break in the middle of the day. Fruit-flavored water, tortillas, and salsa typically accompany a Mexican lunch, and it is a chance for families to eat together in the middle of the day before the adults return to work.

Dinner is not typically a heavy meal in Mexican culture, and it usually consists of something small such as a few tacos or tamales. Often people eat a small portion of leftovers from lunch or even just a piece of sweet bread with hot chocolate.

Conclusion – Spanish Food vs Mexican Food

Although Spanish and Mexican cuisine each have uniquely defining foods, customs, and characteristics. There is no denying that they have some striking similarities as well. It is no surprise that Spanish culture and historical tradition has, in some way, impacted all aspects of Mexican culture. Still, Mexico’s Mesoamerican roots set it apart from Spain’s more European tradition, and the differences between the two countries speak for themselves.

If you want to try something a bit lighter with more complex flavors with a predominantly European influence, Spanish cuisine may be your choice. If you prefer something a bit bolder and heartier that makes use of stronger spices, Mexican food may be more what you want. No matter which cooking tradition you decide to explore first, you’re sure to find something that you love!

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