What is a staple ingredient of Mexican cuisine?

Corn is a fundamental ingredient in Mexican cuisine, deeply embedded in the country's culinary traditions and history. It serves as the basis for an array of essential foods, including tortillas, tamales, and various salsas. Corn, or maize, has been cultivated in Mexico for thousands of years and is featured in countless regional dishes that highlight its versatility and significance.

Tortillas made from corn are a staple in many meals and have cultural importance, often accompanying everyday dishes as well as festive occasions. Additionally, corn is used not just in solid forms but in beverages like atole and masa for various recipes. The importance of corn in Mexican cuisine illustrates not only the ingredient's adaptability in cooking but also its role in the agricultural and social heritage of the region.

While rice, wheat, and barley are also widely consumed, they do not hold the same iconic status or historical significance within traditional Mexican cooking as corn does.