The taco is a dish that brings together ancient recipes and influences from around the world. It’s also a dish that can be enjoyed by almost everyone, whether they’re vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free.
Tacos Houston are served in taquerias, both restaurants and food trucks, across the country. But they are also making an appearance in gourmet cuisine, combining high-quality ingredients and advanced techniques.
The history of tacos stretches back to the indigenous peoples of Mexico. These early Mesoamericans used tortillas as edible spoons to hold small fish and roasted meats. It was during this time that the word “taco” originated in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs. The term is believed to have evolved from the word tlahco, or tlaxcalli, which was used to describe a rolled-up tortilla. When the Spanish conquered Mexico in the 16th century, they brought a new level of diversity to its food culture, including livestock and ingredients that weren’t previously found in the country.
During the colonial period, the first flour tortillas were introduced to Mexican cuisine. It is commonly thought that these flour tortillas were a type of Westernization, but it’s important to remember that corn was already in use in the region before European colonization. In fact, when Hernan Cortez arrived in Coyoacan, he was served pigs meat wrapped in corn tortillas.
In the modern day, tacos have become popular around the world. They can be found in places as far flung as Australia, England and Spain. However, they are most closely associated with Mexico, where they’ve been a staple food for many generations.
Tacos are a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit a variety of different preferences and dietary needs. For example, gluten-free tortillas are now available to cater to those with Celiac disease, while plant-based fillings can be used for vegans and vegetarians. Likewise, sauces can enhance the flavor of the taco while also adding a pop of color and texture to the plate. This ability to adapt will likely ensure that tacos continue to be a popular part of the global culinary landscape.
Variations
A popular dish for many people worldwide, tacos come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are steamed and filled, while others are fried or grilled. A tortilla is used as a base, and then various fillings are added. Many different salsas are available for the perfect accompaniment, and garnishes such as sour cream or guacamole add a delicious flavour to the taco.
Tacos are made with either corn or flour tortillas, and are often served warm. The word taco is believed to originate from the Nahuatl phrase tlahco, meaning ‘in the middle’ or ‘half’, referring to how the ingredients are placed in the shell. Indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica were consuming this food before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors, and the Mexican cuisine has continued to evolve since then.
Today, there are limitless variations on the traditional taco. The shell may be soft or hard, and can be made from either a corn or flour tortilla. The fillings can include almost any meat, fish or vegetable, and some are seasoned with chili powder, cumin or other spices. There are also vegetarian alternatives, such as roasted vegetables or beans. Rolled tacos like taquitos and flautas are popular, and can be filled with beef, chicken or a mixture of both.
Some tacos are fried, such as al pastor, which is seasoned with achiote (annatto) and peppercorns, and served on a tortilla that has been grilled or steamed. Other fried options include pork, beef and chicken tinga, which are cooked in a sauce with tomato, garlic and smoky chipotle chillies. A range of other sauces, such as roasted red peppers, mole poblano and rajas, can be used to create different flavors. Tacos can also be made with shredded cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, which adds a delicious flavour.
Fillings
Tacos are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of fillings and toppings. Whether you are looking to add protein to your tacos or want to switch things up with a crunchy texture, there are options available for every palate.
The most basic taco consists of a warmed, soft corn tortilla folded around a filling. Traditional taco fillings include beef, pork, fish, or vegetables. Other popular choices include guacamole, salsa, and refried beans. A spritz of lime juice or hot sauce can enhance the flavor of most fillings.
One of the most popular taco toppings is shredded cheese, which can add an extra layer of salty and savory flavor to your meal. Master Class notes that cotija cheese is another good option, as it has a unique milky and salty taste and melts well. Shredded lettuce and chopped cilantro can also make a great addition to your tacos.
If you are looking to add some crunch and a mildly spicy flavor, sliced pickled onions can be an excellent choice. If you are sensitive to spice, try adding pickled jalapenos or serranos instead.
You can also add some grilled corn to your tacos, which gives them a sweet and smoky flavor. Tossing the corn with a bit of butter is even better, as it will bring out its natural sweetness. Cured black olives are another classic topping for tacos, which can be added for a mildly salty and slightly bitter flavor.
Although the exact origin of tacos is not known, they likely originated in the 1700’s in Mexican silver mines. Since then, they have become one of Mexico’s most popular street foods. They are now eaten all over the world and can be found in restaurants, food trucks, and at home.
Toppings
As the name suggests, tacos are a type of tortilla that wraps or folds around a filling. They’re typically topped with cilantro and white onions. Other popular toppings include salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges.
While tacos are most often associated with Mexican cuisine, they can be found in many forms throughout the world. In fact, they’re such a beloved dish that in 2010 UNESCO designated Mexican cuisine as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”
Tacos can be as simple or complex as you like. Traditionally, they consist of soft corn or flour tortillas that are warmed and folded around a filling. Fillings can vary widely, but some classic choices include chicken, beef, slow-cooked pork or white fish. Vegetarians can opt for beans or roasted sweet potatoes. Regardless of the filling, a good sauce or salsa is essential to any taco. Tomato salsa is a traditional choice, but try something new for an added twist; a tangy pico de gallo or a savory salsa verde are delicious options that complement almost any taco.
Other popular toppings include sliced radishes, avocado slices, cilantro, chopped cabbage or mixed greens and salsas made from a variety of fruits, vegetables, and peppers. For a sweet touch, add a sprinkling of diced mango or pineapple, especially if you’re serving fish tacos.
Sour cream is another popular option for tacos. However, it’s important to note that sour cream is high in saturated fat. For a healthier alternative, try a homemade sour cream or low-fat plain Greek yogurt.
Adding a few creative toppings to your tacos can transform them into something truly special. For example, swapping out kalamata olives for the traditional green onions in a fish taco can make it taste more Mediterranean.
Restaurants
Tacos are a worldwide phenomenon, beloved in gourmet restaurants and humble street stalls alike. They have even become a part of popular culture, making appearances in movies and TV shows. Whether served on a corn or flour tortilla, filled with grilled meats and fresh cilantro or loaded with beans and cheese, tacos are universally appealing.
The versatility of this iconic food has led to many variations around the world. In addition to traditional Mexican tacos, there are Tex-Mex tacos, which are usually made with flour tortillas and seasoned ground beef, as well as Korean tacos that feature grilled bulgogi beef and spicy gochujang sauce in a soft tortilla. Other global adaptations include Japanese tempura tacos, Indian naan tacos with curry, and Vietnamese banh mi tacos that are similar to a traditional sandwich.
In New York City, you can find all types of tacos from numerous restaurants. There are taquerias that serve carne asada, adobada, and shredded chicken tacos with guacamole and salsa. There are also taco trucks that offer street-style tacos in a variety of flavors and toppings.
Tacos can be affordable and healthy, depending on the ingredients and how they are prepared. For example, you can get a bean and cheese taco from a Mexican restaurant for less than two dollars. A street vendor might sell tacos loaded with roasted pork, cabbage, radishes, and onions for a few more dollars. The fatty and savory flavors of these fillings combine with the crispness of the tortilla for an experience that will linger long after your meal is finished. In a day and age where health trends focus on high-priced ingredients, the taco is a reminder that good food does not need to be expensive.
