Cinco de Mayo has become a popular holiday in North America—and beyond. Is it just a made-up excuse to drink margaritas? Not exactly…Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army’s historic defeat of the French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The French outnumbered the Mexican Army by 2:1, so it’s an important victory that lifted morale and helped unify Mexico in its resolve to remain independent. It’s not Mexican Independence Day (that’s on September 16), but Cinco de Mayo is still observed in Mexico. The thing is, it’s just not as big a deal in Mexico as it is in America. Drink marketers are partly responsible. They blew up a day of Mexican pride into a huge celebration of Mexican food, drinks, music, and culture. If you observe Cinco de Mayo, here are some plant-based recipes to help you enjoy the day in style.