The History of Tacos

Do you know the origin of Mexican tacos?

At Los Jilbertos Taco Shop, we offer a variety of authentic and delicious tacos that you shouldn’t miss out on. Enjoy your meal and come try them, savoring their exquisite flavors! 🌮🇲🇽

The Global Rise of Mexican Cuisine: Discovering the True Origin of Tacos

Latin American cuisine is increasingly expanding and captivating countries worldwide. Techniques and seasonings from across the pond are loved by most. In fact, it is not unusual to find at least two Mexican restaurants in your city that offer this delightful type of food. Specifically, Mexican food has gained global popularity in recent years, with street taco stands popping up all over places like California. In Menifee, it’s impossible not to find a taco stand on every corner. But… What is the true origin of Mexican tacos? We will tell you here… At Los Jilbertos Taco Shop.

Tracing the Origins of Mexican Tacos

The origin of Mexican tacos is unknown, but several factors prove the existence of this delicious recipe since ancient times. It all began with the traditional corn tortillas in pre-Hispanic Mexico. It is said that during the time of Moctezuma, corn tortillas were heated on a stone until they resembled the taco dough we know today. These tortillas were used either as a plate to support chili and beans or as a wrapper to send food to the men working in the fields.

The Taco Tradition During the Conquest

Another account from the time of the conquest is that Hernán Cortés had already established the taco tradition. The book Historia Verdadera de la Conquista de la Nueva Espana mentions that Hernán Cortés was the first to organize a taquiza, featuring Mexican tacos accompanied by pork on top of the typical regional tortilla. Taquizas are traditional Mexican banquets where the taco is the protagonist. Many historians attribute the invention of the taquiza to Hernán Cortés, who facilitated these banquets where cultures met and merged.

Evolution of Tacos Through History

Over the years, different varieties of Mexican tacos were created, forming the wide range we enjoy today. For example, in 1950 in Tlaxcala, the taco canasta was born during times of scarcity, known for being economical and popular since then. During the sixties, in Mexico City and during the impact of the strong Lebanese migration, tacos al pastor were born. This new recipe involved marinating the meat to change its flavor according to available ingredients. Today, we have a wide variety of Mexican tacos, but… Which are the most famous?

The most famous tacos:

Taco de al pastor

One of the most beloved types of tacos at Los Jilbertos actually has roots in Lebanon. Techniques and flavors of the Middle East came over with immigrants, who combined them with Mexican ingredients. Thinly sliced, marinated pork is skewered with annatto and pineapple on a vertical spit rotisserie. The meat slowly cooks and caramelizes in the pineapple juice before it’s carved onto a corn tortilla. Al pastor tacos are garnished with pineapple, cilantro, onion, and a touch of salsa. These must-try tacos are a staple at Los Jilbertos!

Taco de cabeza

Taco de cabeza is a unique Mexican taco made from the tender, flavorful meat from the head of a cow. This delicacy is slow-cooked until it becomes incredibly tender and juicy. The meat is then served on a corn tortilla, often with diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a rich and savory taco experience that showcases traditional Mexican flavors.

Taco de Carne Asada

Carne asada tacos are made with juicy, grilled beef, typically cooked over an open flame to get that perfect char. The beef is marinated with a blend of spices and citrus before grilling, infusing it with a deliciously zesty flavor. Served on a warm corn tortilla, these tacos are garnished with onion, cilantro, guacamole and a squeeze of lime. Carne asada tacos are a classic favorite at Los Jilbertos. Mexican flavors.

Tacos de Carnitas

Originating from Michoacan, carnitas is slow-cooked pork, cooked in its own fat until tender with a crispy exterior. This cooking process uses cuts like pork shoulder, picnic ham, or belly, cooked with oranges and herbs. The result is a rich, succulent filling for a corn tortilla. Garnish with onion, cilantro, guacamole and a touch of salsa for a perfect carnitas taco experience at Los Jilbertos.

Taco de chorizo

Chorizo tacos feature spicy, flavorful Mexican sausage made from seasoned pork. The chorizo is cooked until it’s crispy and crumbly, then served on a corn tortilla. These tacos are often garnished with cilantro, diced onions, and a splash of lime juice. Chorizo tacos deliver a robust, spicy kick that taco lovers can’t resist at Los Jilbertos.

Taco de pollo asado

Pollo asado tacos are made with grilled or roasted chicken marinated in spices and citrus. The chicken is cooked until tender and juicy, then shredded or chopped and served on a corn tortilla. These tacos are garnished with fresh ingredients like cabbage, cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime. Pollo asado tacos offer a lighter, yet equally delicious option for taco enthusiasts at Los Jilbertos.

Coyoacán Taquiza: First Encounter with the Spaniards

Upon the arrival of Spanish caravels, Hernán Cortés organized feasts centered around pork with tortillas. Coyoacán witnessed the first taquiza in history.

Unique Types of Mexican Tacos

At Los Jilbertos Taco Shop, we offer some of the most unique and flavorful Mexican tacos. You shouldn’t miss trying our Taco de Al Pastor, Taco de Cabeza, and Taco de Carne Asada. Additionally, explore our Carnitas Tacos, Chorizo Tacos, and Pollo Asado Tacos for a truly diverse taco experience. 🌮🇲🇽

Don’t miss out! Visit Los Jilbertos and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more. 🍽️ Explore our menu and learn more at Los Jilbertos Website. Buen provecho!