Street Eats

I've struggled with budgeting for a few years now; the primary contributor being takeout. There's a simple fascination with not having to do dishes, or cook, or prep... and still consume quality food.

One food stop in particular are Taco Trucks.

Taco trucks are a guilty pleasure of mine, ever since that first experience in 8th grade my heart has leapt for joy at the sight. I always like trying my limited Spanish with the kind employees when ordering (and if all falls apart I apologize and switch to back English haha).

But yes, todays topic is actually tacos believe it or not, because I work at a restaurant where we specialize in such products (come visit me at Tap House: West End) -- and I had a realization -- when did people start eating them?

Tacos were first introduced into the US in 1905 by Mexican miners. Now, these original "tacos de minero" weren't your classic steak, cheese and onion delicacies; these bites were FLAMING -- so much so that the American miners considered them uncomfortable for their sensitive US tastebuds. It wasn't till 15 years later than the United States began to recreate these fiery dishes with their own ingredients (can always trust the US to change something good and make it... American lol.) In the 21st century now we have hundreds of different forms of tacos with ingredients of all kinds.

BONUS FACT: Taco isn't a Mexican word! It was coined by those living in the southern states

Like tacos, people change and adapt to fit in with the culture -- we are constantly adding and removing flavors so that people will like/appreciate our presence. But who likes a bland taco? Not me. I like that mild salsa, the extra onions, and more steak! Being unique is a blessing, not a curse. The next time you see a taco -- think back to this post and remember that your unique person, your unique situation... you are this way for a reason and you should always be true to yourself.