Taco

What is Taco?

A taco is made by folding a small, round tortilla—usually corn but sometimes wheat—around a filling. The filling can be beef, pork, chicken, seafood, beans, cheese, or vegetables. Toppings often include salsa, chopped onion, fresh cilantro, and sometimes lettuce, tomato, or chiles. Tacos are eaten with the hands and are usually served simply, letting the flavors of the filling and garnishes stand out. The tortilla is soft or crisp, depending on the style. Tacos are found everywhere in Mexico, from street stalls to restaurants.

Where does Taco come from?

The exact beginnings of the taco are debated. Some believe it dates back to indigenous people in the Valley of Mexico, who filled tortillas with small fish. Others suggest it was created by Mexican silver miners in the 18th century, who used the word 'taco' for explosive charges wrapped in paper. The term taco was first used in Mexico City and nearby areas, but other regions had their own names for similar foods. Over time, 'taco' became the standard word. Tacos have been mentioned in Mexican writing since at least the 1830s.

How is Taco made?

To make a taco, a tortilla is warmed and then filled with a choice of meat, beans, cheese, or vegetables. The tortilla is folded around the filling, not rolled. Garnishes such as salsa, onion, cilantro, and sometimes guacamole or sour cream are added. Some tacos use grilled or fried fillings, while others use stewed or steamed meats. In the United States, a popular style uses a crisp-fried corn shell filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and tomato.

How and when is Taco eaten?

Tacos are eaten at lunch, dinner, or as a snack. They are a common street food in Mexico and are often served in pairs, with lime wedges, radishes, and pickled or grilled chiles on the side. Tacos are eaten by hand, and diners may add extra salsa or squeeze lime juice to taste. In the United States, tacos are also served in restaurants and fast food chains, often with a wider range of fillings and toppings.

Kinds of Taco

There are many traditional types of tacos. Tacos al pastor use pork cooked on a vertical spit. Tacos de asador are grilled, while tacos de cabeza use steamed cow's head parts. Fish and shrimp tacos come from Baja California. Tacos dorados are rolled and fried until crisp. In the US, hard-shell tacos with ground beef and cheese are popular. Breakfast tacos, filled with eggs and meat, are common in Tex-Mex cuisine.

What Taco means

Tacos are a central part of Mexican daily life and street food culture. They are enjoyed across all social groups and have spread worldwide. In 2024, a Mexico City taco stand received a Michelin star, highlighting their cultural importance. Tacos are also a symbol of Mexican identity and are featured in celebrations and gatherings. Their many forms reflect regional tastes and histories.

Questions people ask about Taco

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• Taco Bell NationLos Angeles Times, Article
• How Austin Became the Home of the Crucial Breakfast TacoEater, Article

• Taco on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data