Tacos are like the local version of junk food, but a much healthier one. They’re a pretty popular Mexican dish, found everywhere, even on street corners. And they’re cheap too. You can get the cheapest tacos for about 7-10 pesos each, roughly 0.5 euro. So, what are they? Picture a round, fine corn tortilla topped with a filling and rolled up like a wrap. There are loads of variations. They’re usually made with pork or beef, or even tongue, but you can find some with fish too, although that’s a bit rare. There are also vegetarian options.
One of the most popular choices among meat lovers is ‘Tacos al Pastor’. It’s made by placing grilled pork meat on the corn tortilla, then adding sauces, avocado, lettuce, cabbage, and whatever else you fancy. And let’s not forget about the ‘salsa verde’—this green sauce is essential for a good taco. It’s made from green tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, cilantro, lemon juice, onions, and salt. Some people like to add avocado to theirs, which makes it even tastier in my opinion. It gives it a smoother texture and a more mellow flavor. Another mandatory sauce is the so-called ‘pico de gallo’ (transl. rooster’s beak) – finely chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, salt and flavored with lemon.
Now, let’s talk about tortillas. They’re basically the Mexican version of bread, but way more popular. You won’t find the same kind of bread you’re used to here. Instead, you’ll find tortillas everywhere. They’re made from corn and are a staple in Mexican cuisine. You can buy them in stores or from special places called tortillerias, where they make them fresh.
There are different kinds of tortillas too. Alongside the traditional ones, there’s something called tortilla burrera. These are made from flour instead of corn, so they’re bigger and crunchier. They’re kind of like the Arabic pitas you get with döner kebabs in Bulgaria. They’re usually heated up on a grill or pan to make them soft. And then there’s the burrito, which is made from these tortillas. It’s filled with all sorts of goodies—meat, beans, rice, salad, and spicy sauces. My personal favorite? The shrimp version!
In short, tacos and tortillas are essential tastes of Mexico, blending tradition and innovation. Don’t miss out on experiencing these delicious flavors that capture the heart of Mexican cuisine.
