In addition to being tasty, tacos are almost as ancient as civilization in Mexico. This versatile, apparently uncomplicated dish has many stories to tell. Let’s discover some of them!
Who Invented Tacos?
So, who invented tacos? We don’t know for sure. We do know, however, that they were a staple in the diet of the Aztecs. When the Spanish conquerors first arrived in Mexico, they visited the sprawling Tlatelolco market, where they first saw what they called “pan de la tierra” (“Earth’s bread”), or what we know today as tamales and tacos.
The First Taco Bar
We know that Moctezuma, the ninth tlatoani (ruler) of Tenochtitlan (today’s Mexico City) was offered every day a meal that consisted of about 25 different dishes kept warm by clay braziers. The delicacies included duck and edible herbs. Tortillas were already an important part of Aztec gastronomic culture, so it’s possible that Moctezuma was enjoying one of history’s first taco bars!
Mexico Through its Tacos
This dish is a very important part of everyday life in Mexico. You could even tell Mexico’s history through its tacos. Take tacos al pastor (tacos shepherd style), for example. It is believed that they were created in Puebla, a city with a numerous Lebanese community. The influence of Middle Eastern cuisine can be felt in the unique preparation method for tacos al pastor, which includes a rotating spit similar to that used to cook kebab meat.
What’s the Most Popular Taco in Mexico?
According to a 2018 study, tacos are the “antojito” (literally, “little cravings”, or street food) that Mexicans prefer, and tacos al pastor are the most popular in Mexico. These are the top 10 places:
- Al pastor 21%
- Beef steak 13%
- Grilled meat 11%
- Suadero (flank steak) 8%
- Carnitas 7%
- Carne de res 4%
- Stew 3%
- Barbecue 3%
- Chicken 2%
- Head meat 2%
At Chef Gourmet we love this amazing dish so much that the Naked Ground Beef Taco is one of the enticing options in our Gourmet Prepared Meals.
We source fresh ingredients from local suppliers we know and trust in order to support our communities and create meaningful relationships with those around us.
We are located at 1910 S. Archibald, Unit O Ontario. Contact us today by telephone (1-888-536-5269), email or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn to learn more about our menus and our Gourmet lunch Boxes.
