A Mexican Themed Christmas Buffet

On Christmas Day Rick Podowski invites his friends and relatives to an evening buffet with a theme that reflects one of the cultures of the members of The Hefty Trio.  Over the past three years he has presented buffets with Irish, Italian and Polish themes. So in honor of Leti the theme this year is Mexican.

Since San Jose, California is a mecca for good Mexican food, Rick decided to make this an easy feast by purchasing many of the products.

All events start with lots of libation. He picked some Pinots, a couple of Cabs and some nice Chardonnays. Since the theme is Mexican, he created a margarita bar and of course salsa and chips help people to get started.

Rick went to the farmer's market and purchased the traditional Mexican Christmas dish--tamales.  However, there is a twist. In Oaxaca, a southern Mexican state, they spread the masa on banana leaves and cover  the chicken with mole (chocolate with twenty-seven spices).  For those who want to create their own burrito, the tortillas have been wormed in the steam tray.

Rick purchased pulled chicken from the grocery store and all he needed to do was to heat it in the microwave. He also purchased beef for fajitas and heated the strips in a pan.

Guests have their choice of accompaniments--sour cream, green onions, guacamole, cheese and a salsa.

Refried beans and rice round out the meal.. Rick bought the rice from the store and the beans were from a can.

So that you don't think that Rick is totally lazy, he made the bread pudding. the flan and even though it's not Mexican, he added a little Polish Nut Strudel.  These three desserts can be found in previous blog posts.

Felice Navidad

Be sure to read the five books in The Rick Podowski and The Hefty Trio Series.