El Agave Mexican Restaurant – Rio Rancho, New Mexican
Even the teetotalers among us recognize the importance of agave in the production of tequila and mescal. What most of us may not fully appreciate is agave’s diverse cultural and culinary significance, particularly in Mexico. For example, the drought-resistant succulent plant has been used in medicinal treatments such as treating wounds, digestive ailments, and even as a remedy for coughs and sore throats. It’s a source of natural sweetener and a healthier alternative to refined sugars. Restaurants in Mexico use it to prepare salsas, marinades, desserts and even some traditional dishes. Agave even plays a prominent role in indigenous cultures where it’s revered and valued. Many of us use it to xeriscape our yards throughout the Southwest. Since October, 2017, foodies in the City of Vision have recognized another type of agave for which to be grateful. That would be El Agave, a delightful family-owned-and-operated Mexican restaurant. If you haven’t seen El Agave during your own peregrinations in Rio Rancho, that’s because it’s recessed about a block from heavily trafficked Rio Rancho Blvd., the city’s main north-south drag. Worse, it’s esconced in the Lujan Plaza, a timeworn shopping center that’s seen better days. El Agave occupies a corner space diagonally…
