Tacos: more than food, a way of life
When thinking about Mexico, it is almost inevitable to associate it with the word TACOS. For Mexicans, it is something that is basically part of our DNA. Since we were children, the rolled tortilla (the most basic of tacos) is one of the first solid foods we try.
Unlike other countries, tacos in Mexico are more than just a dish; they are a way of eating. Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner, tacos will almost always be our first choice. They can serve as a snack between meals or arise as a craving that makes us visit the nearest taco place. They work as a remedy for “hangovers”, accompanied by a good sauce that makes us sweat to eliminate toxins. At parties we serve different variants and we call it taquiza. On weekends we get together with colleagues and loved ones to “echar taco” (eat tacos). Tacos mean joy, union, friendship, love and family.
Endless options
Pastor, carnitas, barbacoa, cochinita pibil, carne asada and birria are some of the most iconic tacos in our country. All of them are made with meat; however, we can also find a large number of vegetarian and even vegan options.
The variety of tacos can be endless, as it depends on the ingredients available as well as the creativity of each person. In the mornings, for example, instead of putting the scrambled or fried egg on top of bread, we will do it on a tortilla. Adding chili is something that cannot be missed: whether chopped, roasted or in the form of a sauce.
Although preparing a taco seems very simple, understanding its structure will make you, like us, enjoy its versatility a lot more. For this we present the basic elements of a taco.
The tortilla
In the northern states of Mexico, wheat tortillas are mostly consumed because this grain is easier to grow in that area. In the rest of the country, corn tortillas are preferred. Both variants are accepted as long as they are soft and fresh.
Specifically, the freshly made corn tortilla is something we appreciate a lot. It should not be too thick or too thin, it should be flexible and have a good flavor on its own.
The filling
You can use different meats like chicken, beef, pork and lamb, either roasted, fried or cooked in an earth oven. Any vegetables you have on hand, sautéed, steamed or breaded also work. Fish and seafood like shrimp, octopus or crab cannot be missing.
Even the most exotic ingredients like a variety of insects and maguey worms are amazing! It can be the most elaborate or even something as simple as putting in a few slices of avocado. Anything that suits your taste, but always salty, we never eat sweet taco!
The sauces
This is the element that can make the difference in a taco. It is so important that on many occasions we choose taco places for their sauces more than for the fillings.
This is definitely something that cannot be missing from any Mexican table or restaurant; there must be a balance between flavor and spiciness, so it is important to try them beforehand to find out which one best suits your taste and resistance to spiciness.
The toppings
Lemon? Yes, but not with all tacos. One of the main uses, besides adding flavor, is to create a balance between the ingredients. That is why we recommend using it with meats or fried things and avoiding it in fillings with delicate flavors.
Onion and cilantro also can greatly enhance the flavor of tacos. We generally use raw onion but it can also be roasted or pickled. Depending on the taco we can also add potatoes, rice, beans, radishes, cucumbers, pineapple, papalo and even pork rinds.
You can’t miss…
Chilango tacos 101. The perfect tour for lunchtime. Enjoy with family, a partner or friends.
Narvarte at Night: Tacos, Chelas and Mezcal. A tour that includes delicious tacos and mezcal tasting. Ideal for couples, friends and coworkers.
Tortilla Class & Workshop. The perfect activity to spend an incredible afternoon while you learn how to make delicious corn tortillas.