Oklahoma City-based food blogger Isabel Orozco-Moore describes Mexican food as her one true love.
A first-generation Mexican-American, Orozco-Moore grew up eating authentic home-cooked Mexican meals every single day. But according to her, it wasn’t until she got older and moved away to go to college when she really started to appreciate the Mexican food and culture that she grew up with.
“It’s full of rich flavors that are as diverse as the country itself,” said Orozco-Moore in an interview with National Geographic, describing Mexican food culture. “Corn is a staple, used in everything from tacos and tamales to enchiladas and menudo. Ingredients like chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic and onions are transformed into some of the most robust flavors in the world.”
Having grown up, she started paying attention to the ingredients her parents were using in the kitchen, and how they made certain Mexican dishes. She then began exploring the different foods the Mexican cuisine offered and recreating those recipes on her own.
“My mum’s red enchiladas will always have a special place in my heart,” admits Orozco-Moore. “The sauce is made with a blend of guajillo, ancho and arbol chilies and a small piece of Mexican chocolate. No fancy stuffing either—just a handful of Mexican cheese and diced onions.”
After searching for a place to document all of her recipe experiments, creating a reference guide for herself—her now successful food blog Isabel Eats was born.
Her blog and accompanying Instagram page offers a mix of authentic Mexican recipes as well as Mexican-inspired dishes with a twist. Anything from Mexican Stuffed Peppers and a Healthy Avocado Salad to ooey-gooey cheesy Red Chicken Enchiladas and delicious Tres Leches Cake.
But when it comes to Orozco-Moore favorite dish, the choice is clear. “Tacos, especially carnitas tacos made in the slow cooker. The shredded pork is highly seasoned and tender—perfect for scooping into a homemade corn tortilla and topping with queso fresco [Mexican white cheese], coriander and onions.”
