From the stretchy Oaxaca cheese to Obleas, these Mexican foods that start with O offer delicious Mexican culinary traditions.
Related: 16 Mexican Foods That Start with N and 13 Mexican Foods That Start With I
1. Obleas
Obleas are a type of Mexican wafer cookie that are thin, crisp, and sweet. They are often filled with dulce de leche, cajeta, or other sweet fillings and are a popular snack in Mexico. Obleas are made with wheat flour, water, corn oil, and artificial flavorings.
Looking for a list of foods that start with O in Spanish? Try my 73 Comidas Con O.
2. Ostión
Ostión is the Spanish word for oyster, a popular seafood in Mexican cuisine. Oysters are often served raw on the half shell, grilled, or fried. They are a popular ingredient in ceviche, cocktails, and other seafood dishes.
3. Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese is a type of Mexican cheese that is similar to mozzarella. It is a semi-soft, white cheese that is known for its stringy texture and mild flavor. Oaxaca cheese is often used in quesadillas, enchiladas, and other Mexican dishes.
4. Ostiones a la Talla
Ostiones a la Talla is a popular Mexican seafood dish that features grilled oysters. The oysters are seasoned with a spicy chili sauce and served on the half shell. This dish is a specialty of the coastal state of Guerrero.
5. Ostiones a la Parrilla
Ostiones a la Parrilla is another popular Mexican seafood dish that features grilled oysters. The oysters are grilled with garlic butter and served on the half shell. This dish is a specialty of the coastal state of Veracruz.
6. Olla de Carne
Olla de Carne is a traditional Mexican beef stew that is often served during the winter months. The stew is made with beef, potatoes, carrots, corn, and other vegetables. It is often seasoned with garlic, onions, and other spices.
7. Olla de Res
Olla de Res is another traditional Mexican beef stew that is similar to Olla de Carne. The stew is made with beef, vegetables, and spices, and is often served with rice and tortillas.
8. Olla Gitana
Olla Gitana is a vegetarian Mexican stew that is made with chickpeas, lentils, and other vegetables. The stew is often seasoned with cumin, garlic, and other spices. It is a popular dish in Mexico City and other parts of central Mexico.
9. Omelette
Omelettes are a popular breakfast food in Mexico and are often filled with cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients. They are made with beaten eggs that are cooked in a frying pan and folded over the filling.
10. Oreja de cerdo
Oreja de cerdo is a traditional Mexican dish that features pig ears. The ears are boiled, sliced, and then fried until crispy. They are often served as a snack or appetizer.
11. Oca
Oca is a root vegetable that is native to the Andes region of South America. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine as a substitute for potatoes or sweet potatoes. Oca can be boiled, roasted, or fried and is often served as a side dish or in stews. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that pairs well with other Mexican ingredients.
12. Orejas (Mexican Pan Dulce)
Orejas, also known as Mexican Palmiers, are a type of sweet pastry that is popular in Mexico. They are made from puff pastry that’s rolled in sugar and cinnamon and then baked until golden brown. Orejas are a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
13. Okra a la Mexicana
Okra a la Mexicana is a traditional Mexican dish that features okra cooked with tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers. This dish is popular in the southern states of Mexico and is often served as a side dish or as a main course with rice and beans.
14. Orégano Mexicano
Orégano Mexicano, or Mexican oregano, is a type of oregano that is native to Mexico. It has a stronger flavor and aroma than Mediterranean oregano and is often used in Mexican dishes such as chili, salsa, and mole. Orégano Mexicano is a must-have ingredient in any Mexican kitchen.
15. Ostiones a la Veracruzana
Ostiones a la Veracruzana, or Veracruz-style oysters, are a popular seafood dish in the state of Veracruz. The oysters are cooked in a tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, and chili peppers. This dish is a must-try for seafood lovers and is often served with rice or bread.
16. Oxtail Stew (Cola De Res)
Oxtail Stew, or Cola De Res, is a hearty stew that is made with oxtail, vegetables, and spices. This dish is popular in Mexico and is often served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Oxtail Stew is a great comfort food and is perfect for cold winter nights.
17. Carnitas de Oreja
Carnitas de Oreja, or pork ear carnitas, are a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the state of Michoacán. The dish is made by slow-cooking pork ears in lard until they are tender and crispy. Carnitas de Oreja are often served with tortillas, salsa, and guacamole. This dish is a must-try for those who are adventurous eaters and want to experience the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.
18. Tacos de Ojo
Tacos de Ojo, or beef eye tacos, are a traditional Mexican dish that is popular in the northern states of Mexico. The dish is made by cooking beef eyes until they are tender and then serving them in corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, and salsa. Tacos de Ojo are a must-try for those who want to experience the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.
19. Olive-Stuffed Enchiladas
Olive-Stuffed Enchiladas are a unique twist on traditional enchiladas. The dish is made by stuffing corn tortillas with a mixture of olives, cheese, and spices and then baking them in a tomato-based sauce. Olive-Stuffed Enchiladas are a great option for vegetarians and are a must-try for those who want to try something new.
20. Ortega Chilies
Ortega Chilies are a type of chili pepper that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. They are mild in flavor and are often used in dishes such as chili, salsa, and enchiladas. Ortega Chilies are a great addition to any Mexican dish and are a must-have ingredient in any Mexican kitchen.
21. Mexican Oatmeal
Mexican Oatmeal, or Avena, is a popular breakfast dish in Mexico. The dish is made by cooking oats with milk, cinnamon, and sugar and then serving it with fruit and nuts. Mexican Oatmeal is a great option for those who want a healthy and hearty breakfast and is a must-try for those who want to experience the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.
A History of Mexican Foods
Mexican cuisine is a delicious fusion of indigenous and Spanish flavors. The Aztecs invented the tortilla, and used it as a wrap for other foods. Corn, squash, chile peppers, and beans have been staples of the Mexican diet since pre-Columbian times.
In addition to these key ingredients, Mexican cuisine incorporates a variety of native American ingredients, such as meat, cheese, tomatoes, avocados, potatoes, prickly pear cactus, chocolate, and turkey. The majority of dishes also include rice and spices which were introduced by Spanish conquistadors.
In 1521, Spain invaded Mexico. Spanish cuisine had the greatest influence on Mexican cuisine. They brought new livestock, such as sheep, pigs, and cows. They also brought dairy products, garlic, and a variety of herbs, grains, and spices.
Mexican Foods FAQs
What is a Mexican cocktail that starts with O?
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a modern classic cocktail that pays homage to the flavors of Mexico. Invented by Phillip Ward at Death & Co in 2007, this cocktail combines tequila, mezcal, agave, and chocolate bitters create a balanced and complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail enthusiast.
What is a Mexican beverage that starts with O?
Orange Agua Fresca (Agua de Naranja) is the ultimate refreshing drink, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. Made with freshly squeezed orange juice, sugar, and water, this beverage is a staple in Mexico.
What are Tex-Mex foods?
Tex-Mex cuisine (from the words Texas and Mexico) is an American cuisine that originated with the Tejano people of Texas. In addition to flour tortillas, Tex-Mex cuisine is distinguished by its heavy use of yellow shredded cheese, beans, meat, chili peppers, and spices.
Many “Mexican” dishes you grew up eating aren’t technically Mexican. Fajitas, chili, nachos, burritos are all cornerstones of Tex-Mex cuisine.
Various Tex-Mex dishes are sometimes prepared without the use of a tortilla. The “fajita bowl,” which is a fajita served without a soft tortilla, is an example of this. In general, cheese plays a much larger role in Tex-Mex cuisine as well.
The Roundup
I hope you enjoyed this roundup of Mexican foods that start with the letter O. From obleas to Oaxaca cheese, there are so many tasty options to choose from.
If you’re looking for even more Mexican food inspiration, be sure to check out 34 Mexican Foods That Start With P.