tacos

Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a tortilla folded around a filling, typically meat, fish, beans, cheese, or vegetables. The tortilla is usually corn in Mexico and flour in parts of the United States, and it serves as a handheld vessel. Common toppings include onions, cilantro, salsa, and lime.

Origins and spread: Tacos have long been a staple of Mexican street food and regional cuisines. The term taco is attested in Mexican Spanish in the 19th century, though the exact origins are debated. The form evolved through regional practices, with fillings and preparations varying by locality and the availability of ingredients.

Regional varieties: In Baja California and coastal areas, fish tacos are popular. Carnitas from Michoacán, al pastor, barbacoa, and other fillings reflect regional traditions. In the United States, tacos often use flour tortillas and may feature toppings common in American fast-food or Mexican-American cuisine, including shredded cheese, lettuce, and sour cream, as well as hard-shell varieties.

Preparation and culture: Tacos are typically assembled by placing a filling in a tortilla and adding toppings before eating by hand. They are a central element of street food, taquerias, and many home cuisines, and they have become a globally recognized symbol of Mexican culinary practice.