From their humble origins as street food in Mexico, tacos have conquered the world with their simplicity, versatility, and tastiness. But when were they invented? Buckle up, because we are taking a romp through history!
When Were Tacos Invented?
We don’t know for sure who invented tacos or when. Chances are good that tacos are as ancient as Mexico itself, so their precise origins are lost to time.
The creation of tacos can be broadly traced back to the indigenous people of Mexico.
The word taco itself comes from Nahuatl, the language spoken by the Aztecs, and means “half or in the middle”. This refers to the way food is placed in the tortilla and then folded in half.
Historical evidence shows that the ancient Mexicans appreciated how practical tacos are. Aztec wives are said to have used tortillas as a sort of edible container to pack food for their husbands. They were on to something — tacos are so convenient that they are served in space!
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A Brief History of Tacos
While tacos already existed in ancient times, a crucial step in their evolution occurred thanks to an event that was going to change Mexico’s history forever.
In the 16th century, the Spanish arrived in Mexico and introduced new ingredients such as rice, beans, meat, and cheese. With these new ingredients, the taco evolved into the dish we know today.
Then in the 19th century, Mexican immigrants brought the taco to the United States, where it soon became a popular food item in the Southwest.
These tacos were often filled with chili con carne, a mixture of beef, onions, and chili peppers. It wasn’t until the 1960s and 70s that tacos exploded in popularity, thanks in part to certain Mexican-inspired fast-food chain. The rest is delicious history.
Today, tacos come in a variety of forms, from traditional street tacos to fusion tacos that incorporate flavors from other cuisines. Whether you like your tacos with carnitas, barbacoa, or vegan fillings, there’s a taco out there for everyone!
Sabukana: Unapologetically Embrace Yourself
Sabukana was created by two Latina sisters, Melanie and Scarlett, to celebrate their Latin roots and multicultural upbringing with a modern twist.
Our creations are made for people who unapologetically embrace their own. They represent our cultures, serving as a reminder of where we come from and who we are.
