#WCW: How Christy Vega Honors Tasty Mexican Traditions

We already knew of some of Christy Vega‘s delicious recipes (hello comforting tortilla soup and irresistible elotes) but the chef’s Mexican heritage runs deeper than easy weeknight meals.

The powerhouse TV personality is continually leaving her mark on the Latin food scene, offering her favorite “south of the border” eats on The Today Show, Guy’s Grocery Games, and more. Vega can’t take all the credit, though. The Mexicana comes from a long line of restaurateurs – her grandparents immigrated to Southern California from Tijuana, Mexico, where they opened acclaimed nightclub and restaurant, Café Caliente; Vega’s father followed soon thereafter, opening Casa Vega in 1956 in Sherman Oaks, CA. Fast forward to today, where Vega oversees nearly every detail of the iconic eatery. When she’s not running the family business, you can find her tending to her four boys (all under the age of 12!) at home.

We chatted with Vega to talk all things Mexican cuisine and her inspiring food career. Read the interview below and see why she’s this week’s Woman Crush Wednesday! [pagebreak]

Where and when did you first become interested in food?  

Food to me is family. My family has always revolved around food. I know nothing different. My family has owned and operated restaurants since the 1930’s. You could say I was born into it.

Why is it important to you to preserve your family’s Mexican heritage and traditions? 

I’m extremely proud to be Mexican. Mexico is such a beautiful place with such a rich culture. I want to pass that along to my children. My family also runs a business based on traditional, authentic family recipes so it’s also a way for me of honoring my family.

What recipes or traditions do you hope to pass on to your children?

Three recipes are essential to pass down to the boys: margaritas, albondigas soup, an tamales. The Mexican traditions we enjoy as a family are making tamales at Christmas, Dia de Los Muertos altars, confetti eggs at Easter, and piñatas at all parties! My boys have to know how to throw a party. [pagebreak]

With all you have going on – restaurants, kids, and more – how do you keep up?

Honestly, I feel like I’ve been going at hyper-speed for the last 10 years or so. Isn’t it funny how when you are young you think you’re busy? Then you get older and realize you weren’t busy at all. Ha! The truth is I keep up with everything by having faith in myself and with lots of love from my family and close friends.

What would your advice to the modern Latina mom be?

Use food to bring the family together. Cooking with your children is a great opportunity to teach them about their culture.

Have you ever encountered any difficulties, as a female chef and entrepreneur?

Absolutely. I work in a male dominated industry. I have to constantly prove myself. That’s fine- it is part of what drives me. I do believe that things are getting better for Latinos every day. You’ll actually see us on TV other days than Cinco de Mayo or Dia de Los Muertos!

Last but certainly not least – if you were to be one Mexican dish, what would you be and why?  

I would be enchiladas – a classic and still a favorite. They’re simple, delicious, and comforting.