Ancient Origins

Tacos have a history that stretches back thousands of years. Anthropologists believe the origin of the taco dates back to the indigenous people in Mexico, who used to eat fish wrapped in tortillas. Today’s variety of fillings was, however, not a part of their diet.

The Name ‘Taco’

The term ‘taco’ referred to pieces of paper wrapped around gunpowder that were used in Mexican silver mines in the 18th century. These were wedged into rock faces before being ignited to extract the precious ore. The tacos we know and love today have a similar construction, with different fillings wrapped in a tortilla.

National Taco Day

Every year on October 4th, the United States celebrates National Taco Day. This commemorative day was established to honor the importance and influence of Mexican cuisine in America, and tacos, in particular, have been embraced by the American culinary scene.

Hardshell vs. Softshell

Tacos can generally be classified into two categories: hardshell and softshell. Hardshell tacos, more common in the United States, are made with crispy tortillas, while softshell tacos use soft corn tortillas, as is traditional in Mexico.

The Taconazo

In the 1960s, the taconazo or taco kickstarted a Mexican fast food revolution. It was a style of taco that consisted of a soft tortilla filled with fried meat and a sprinkle of cheese, which was then rolled up and deep-fried until crispy.

The Biggest Taco in the World

In 2011, Mexico broke the record for creating the world’s largest taco. The taco measured 246 feet long and was filled with carnitas, a popular pork dish in Mexico.

Taco Literacy Course

The University of Kentucky offers a course called ‘Taco Literacy,’ which explores the history and influence of Mexican food in the U.S., with tacos being a primary focus.

Taco Tuesday

“Taco Tuesday” is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada where individuals indulge in tacos on Tuesday nights. The term is actually trademarked by a Wyoming-based fast-food chain called Taco John’s, but it is widely used by various establishments.

Tacos al Pastor

One of the most popular types of tacos in Mexico is Tacos al Pastor, which translates to “shepherd style” tacos. The style is believed to be influenced by Lebanese immigrants in Mexico who introduced the method of grilling meat on a spit, similar to shawarma.

Variety of Fillings

The beauty of tacos lies in their versatility. They can be filled with a wide range of ingredients, from grilled meats, seafood, and cheeses to an array of vegetables, salsas, and even insects in some traditional Mexican versions.

Breakfast Tacos

Breakfast tacos are a beloved morning meal in many parts of the U.S. and Mexico. Typically, these are filled with eggs and other breakfast foods like bacon, cheese, and potatoes.

The Taco Cleanse

Believe it or not, there’s a “Taco Cleanse” based on a cookbook published in 2015. It advocates eating various types of vegan tacos for every meal to improve health.

Gourmet Tacos

While tacos are traditionally viewed as street food, many gourmet versions have emerged in recent years, featuring high-end ingredients like truffles, caviar, and wagyu beef.

The Fish Taco

While Americans associate fish tacos with Baja California’s beach towns, the concept of the fish taco is believed to have originated in the coastal regions of Mexico, where fresh seafood was easily available.

Tacos Dorados

Tacos Dorados, or golden tacos, are another popular variant. These are filled, then rolled, and fried until they reach a beautiful golden color. They are also known as flautas when they are larger in size.

Tacos and the Economy

In America, tacos are a billion-dollar industry. Americans consume billions of tacos every year, reflecting their huge popularity.

Vegan and Vegetarian Tacos

With the rise of vegetarianism and veganism, plant-based tacos have gained popularity. Fillings can include ingredients like jackfruit, mock meat, tofu, beans, and an array of vegetables.

Tacos in Pop Culture

Tacos have a significant place in pop culture. They’re frequently mentioned in songs, television shows, and films. They’ve also inspired clothing designs and home decor items. Not to mention, they have their own emoji!

Final Word

The next time you savor a taco, remember these 18 facts and appreciate the rich history and culinary creativity that go into making this beloved Mexican delight. As you take a bite, you are not only consuming a flavorful meal but also partaking in a tradition that dates back centuries and spans continents. Indeed, every day can be a taco day if you wish it to be!