The Cinco de Mayo holiday is a time for Americans to celebrate Mexico, including the country’s many rich contributions to America’s culinary and beverage landscape. To honor its Mexican heritage and help beer drinkers and food lovers celebrate authentically, Corona has partnered with a renowned Mexican chef to offer a ‘Countdown to Cinco de Mayo.’ Authentic recipes, party tips and historical information on the holiday will be added to FoodChannel.com daily starting on Friday, April 30 as part of this five-day countdown.

‘Whether you choose to celebrate Cinco de Mayo at home or out-on-the-town, an authentic Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo Especial is the perfect accompaniment,’ said Chef Roberto Santibañez, member of The Culinary Institute of America’s Latin Cuisines Advisory Council and owner of the popular restaurant Fonda in Brooklyn, NY. ‘Authentic Mexican beers are not only great to drink, but these beers are delicious additions to those celebrating Cinco de Mayo at home, because their flavor is a wonderful addition both to food and drink recipes.’

Using Mexican beer as his inspiration, Chef Santibañez created recipes that highlight the flavors of his native Mexico and are quick and easy to recreate at home. Look for these recipes in the days to come as we countdown to Cinco de Mayo:

⋅ Day 1: Corona Extra Marinated and Grilled Chorizo

⋅ Day 2: Seared Skirt Steak with Negra Modelo Pan Sauce

⋅ Day 3: Beer Battered Fish Tacos

⋅ Day 4: Spicy Mexican Shrimp and Avocado Cocktail (Coctel de Camaron Campechano)

⋅ Day 5: Chiles Toreados

⋅ Day 6 (Cinco de Mayo): Tomato Pineapple Corona Salsa

The recipes will each include a cooking or entertaining tip from Chef Santibañez, as well as pairing guides and advice on cooking with beer. Along with recipes and party tips, Corona’s ‘Countdown to Cinco de Mayo’ will include information on the history of the Cinco de Mayo holiday.

‘While many Americans believe Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day, it actually celebrates the victory by Mexico’s army over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862,’ said Chef Santibañez.

Keep coming back to FoodChannel.com over the next five days to learn more interesting facts about Cinco de Mayo and to explore various ways to celebrate with authentic Mexican beers, such as Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Negra Modelo and Pacifico.

The six-day countdown to Cinco de Mayo on The Food Channel is sponsored by Corona Extra, Corona Light, Modelo Especial, Negra Modelo and Pacifico.