Feliz Cinco de Mayo

Although, as I understand it, Cinco de Mayo is not actually a big deal in Mexico, I like to look for any excuse to have themed meals, so here are two Mexican themes recipes.  The first one I have made many times and it is very yummy.  The second I will be making tonight.  Enjoy!

Spicy Polenta Tamale Pie

24 oz. Pre Packaged Cooked Polenta (comes in a plastic roll)
1 (15 oz.) Can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 oz.) Can Enchilada Sauce (mild, medium, or hot)
1 (11 oz.) Can Whole Kernel Corn, drained
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 Tablespoon Dried Parsley
1 Cup Cheddar Cheese

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray an 8X8 dish with nonstick cooking spray. Cut polenta into small cubes. Mix all ingredients together in a medium sized bowl and pour into prepared dish. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. 

It is a very easy vegetarian meal.



Mexican Chocolate Cupcakes
1 pkg. Chocolate Cake Mix
2 tsp ground cinnamon, separated
1/4 tsp plus 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
1 Can of  hocolate Frosting


Preparation Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare cake mix as directed.
2. Add 1 tsp of cinnamon and 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper to the cake batter and mix well.
3. Spoon cake batter into prepared cupcake liners and pan. Fill cupcake tins no more than 2/3full.
4. Bake cupcakes as directed and cool completely.
5. Prepare frosting by adding 1 tsp of cinnamon and 1/8 tsp of cayenne pepper to each can of frosting that you use. Mix completely and frost cupcakes.