The Southwest is an area of the America that by some definitions encompasses as many as eight US states, characterized by a dry, desert environment. For the purposes of this blog, we will feature the three most quintessential Southwest states from a culinary perspective. This cuisine is first and foremost characterized by this regions direct proximity to Mexico, with many popular dishes being similar or identical to those enjoyed south of the border. Within the umbrella of Southwest cuisine is Tex-Mex, a unique fusion between Mexican and American food that was born in Texas. Some of the most common ingredients in this cuisine include corn, beans and chili peppers, due to the heavy culinary influence from Native American and Mexican cuisine.