There are many reasons why Mexico has stayed close to my heart after my first visit three years ago. The country offers a multitude of scenic destinations from the crashing waves of Hualtulco to the misty mountains of Cuetzalan. The rich history of the land can lead many to Mayan temples like the pyramid Chichen Itza or the former monastery Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman. Brightly painted houses and shops speak of the vibrant culture that the country contains, along with the warmth of its people. Markets pop up in many towns, containing stands that overflow with handmade crafts and candy. The sun is not shy and many leave tanned from its hot rays. The banda and corridos music sneaking out of cracked doors and strummed on street corners make feet tap and hips sway. It’s impossible to deny Mexico’s energy and enthusiasm when you're part of its bustling sidewalks and smiling faces.

My heart is not the only thing the country has captured, though. I can’t deny as I sit at home in Florida, eating hamburgers and French fries, that I’m usually craving a Mexican snack. My mouth waters for authentic spicy flavors that Mexico has mastered so well. Most of the seasonings and aromas have become normal to me, but I know that wasn’t always the case. I’ve decided to list my favorite Mexican snack foods that may be a little less known, but shouldn’t be passed up when visiting.

Bolis

Bolis are very similar to ice pops in the United States, except their packaging is a bit shorter and thicker than the frozen snack Americans are used to. The flavored ice usually comes in a clear plastic wrapping that is tied in a knot at the end. You bite off a corner of the plastic to start enjoying the icy treat. The colored pops come in a variety of flavors including mango, chocolate, oreo, Nutella, arroz con leche (rice pudding), lemon and rompope (mexican Eggnog). Great for cooling off under the sun!

Wanna try the Mexican Eggnog Bolis? Just A Pinch website has the recipe for you here.

Jicaleta

Have you ever heard of jicama? I hadn't before traveling to Mexico, but it turns out to be a root used to make the Mexican treat, jicaleta. The jicama is thickly sliced and dipped in colored seasoning that adds spice and flavor. If you're not feeling the extra tang, you can opt for just some squeezed lime juice on the jicama. To make the snack an easy eat, a popsicle stick is inserted at the bottom to create a giant looking lollipop. I wonder if Willy Wonka ever considered adding this treat to his factory?

Wanna make Jicaleta for a summer snack? The daily online food website Kitchn has discovered the recipe. Click here to try it for yourself.

Elote

Elote is one of the main reason I keep coming back to Mexico. It’s a common street food sold from side carts in most Mexican towns. You can spot the little stands by a large metal pot eliciting steam. The pots hold corn on the cob, which once taken out, is lathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder. The finishing touch to the mouthwatering kernels is some lime and cilantro. A great twist on the classic corn on the cob that has the perfect refreshing kick!

Wanna try making elote at home? Food Network’s top chef Tyler Florence has revealed the recipe. Click here to try it for yourself.

Amaranth Bars

This is one of the healthiest snacks on the list. The snack is made of amaranth seeds, which is considered a super food. Amaranth is rich source of protein, not to mention that it helps with cholesterol, inflammation and blood pressure. The seed is extremely popular in Mexican cooking and is often found in square bars or circles (like the one pictured above). The seeds are stuck together with a sweet honey like glaze and other nuts can be added into the snack bars to offer variety. Super healthy and super delicious!

Wanna know how you can incorporate amaranth into your daily eating? Kitchn is here to help again! Click this link to read their article, “What To Do With Amaranth.”

Michelada

Not too hungry, but need to quench your thirst? Ask the next Mexican stand you see if they serve Micheladas, but watch out, it's alcoholic! A mix of beer, lime juice and various other sauces are used to create this drink. It’s finished off with a salt-rimmed glass and lime wedge. Your taste buds are sure to go crazy over the spiciness of it all!

Wanna try a Michelada, but not traveling to Mexico anytime soon? The Huffington Post has provided a recipe, along with 11 other ways to mix up the drink. Get the recipes here.

Happy eats everyone! If you want to follow more of my travels in Mexico, follow me on Instagram.