If you're looking for a real culinary experience while staying at luxury vacation rentals, then perhaps now is the time to brush up on your food vocabulary. Built upon numerous influences, from indigenous tribes that have mastered the art of cooking chili, to European settlers who introduced western ingredients, Mexican cuisine is unlike any other in the world.

If you're in the mood for handmade, old-fashioned and traditional dishes, here's a quick guide to what you should look out for as you tour the sites surrounding many villas in Mexico:

Mancha Menteles: Mexican Stew

Literally translated to "tablecloth stainer," mancha menteles stew is like the Sloppy Joe of Mexican cuisine. The name pays homage to the mess most diners make when they begin feasting on this spicy red chili sauce that usually tops a bed of assorted meats, fruits and vegetables. Made with ancho chilis that are somewhat subdued by pineapple, cloves and cinnamon, the sauce is practically a meal in itself.

Locals usually eat mancha menteles on Sunday afternoons following morning church services. Be sure you don't wear white if you decide to tackle a plate - it's guaranteed to get dirty.

Carnitas: Pork Tacos

The term "falls off the bone" provides a perfect description for Mexican carnitas, or pulled pork. After being braised for nearly 24 hours, the meat is simmered in its own juices, resulting in a mouth-watering, butter-like consistency that can only be found in an authentic Mexican restaurant. The best way to eat this dish is in a taco, with a light salsa and handful of fresh cilantro. Que bueno!

Cocktel de Camarones: Shrimp Cocktail

Store-bought shrimp cocktails will seem like a platter of sand once you try cocktel de camarones for the first time. Using shrimp pulled straight from the Gulf of Mexico, these dishes, which are typically appetizers, are served in a goblet of tomato sauce, chilis (which replace the typical horseradish ingredient) and orange juice. You can order a side of corn chips or saltine crackers to scoop up every last morsel.

Margarita

No trip to Mexico is complete without a margarita, and while you might be used to ordering a slushie-like concoction in the states, the traditional way to consume this citrusy beverage is on the rocks. Combining two parts tequila, one part Cointreau liqueur and a splash of freshly squeezed lime juice, margaritas are the perfect drink for lunch or dinner time. While you're staying at luxury rentals, you can store all of the ingredients in your private kitchen and concoct your own version of this delicious cocktail - and don't forget the salt.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals?  Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.