#but soft corn tortillas are tasty

[canisalbus]

No but for real have u had a taco bc I'm reminded by this bit by comedian Trevor Noah that he'd he'd never had a taco before coming to the US bc there aren't Mexicans in South Africa

Yeah I've had tacos. My mom likes tex-mex so we ate them pretty often when I was a kid.

[beautyandlifestyleblog86]

Meal Prep Recipes -

1. Lentil and Vegetable Soup:

- In a large pot, sauté diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil until soft.

- Add dried lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and your choice of seasonings (such as cumin, paprika, and thyme).

- Simmer for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender.

- Divide into containers for a hearty and fiber-rich meal option.

2. Turkey and Black Bean Tacos:

- Cook ground turkey with taco seasoning in a skillet until browned.

- Warm up corn tortillas in a dry skillet.

- Assemble tacos with turkey, black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and cilantro.

- Store in containers for a tasty and protein-packed lunch option.

3. Roasted Chicken with Roasted Vegetables:

- Season chicken breasts with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

- Roast chicken in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

- Roast a mix of vegetables (such as bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes) with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

- Divide chicken and vegetables into containers for a balanced and nutritious meal.

4. Egg Muffins with Spinach and Feta:

- Whisk eggs with chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, diced bell peppers, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

- Pour mixture into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until set.

- Let cool before storing in containers for a protein-packed breakfast or snack option.

5. Salmon and Avocado Salad:

- Cook salmon fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs of your choice.

- Mix cooked salmon with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.

- Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.

- Portion into containers for a flavorful and omega-3-rich meal option.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Crunchy Taco Day 

There’s nothing quite like a delicious crunchy taco to provide super-satisfying flavor for lunch or dinner.

Whether making crunchy tacos at home or grabbing up a few at a local restaurant or chain store, National Crunchy Taco Day is a delicious day that is worth celebrating!

History of National Crunchy Taco Day

The word ‘taco’ can trace its beginnings to the 18th century when workers in the silver mines in Mexico started using the name for little tortilla wrapped meats. This working class food was named after the ‘taquito’ of gunpowder wrapped in paper that the Mexican miners would use to blow up the rocks. The name migrated to the US as the taco developed its crunchy side.

While typically served at Mexican or Tex-Mex restaurants, the crunchy taco has decidedly American roots. In fact, in some Spanish-speaking communities, it is referred to as the “anglo taco”.

Tacos are traditionally served on soft corn tortillas in Mexico, but the crunchy fried shell is a more recent version of the food. The first written recipe for tacos written in English was included in a cookbook in 1914 and the recipe was written for tacos that were meant to be fried.

It wasn’t until the 1950s that the founder of Taco Bell helped make famous the idea of creating a fast way to make crunchy taco shells. Glen Bell had grown up in California where crispy tacos – soft tacos that were filled first and then fried – had become very popular. But the idea of frying the tacos into a U-shape prior to filling them was fairly new. So Mr. Bell decided to open a restaurant originally called Taco Tia, which then turned into Taco Bell.

National Crunchy Taco Day was founded particularly for those who really enjoy celebrating the delightful, tasty flavors of Tex-Mex foods. It’s a day to appreciate the simple things in life, like a little bit of spicy meat, some shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes and so much more.

But the most important thing to appreciate about National Crunchy Taco Day? Well, it’s the crunch, of course!

National Crunchy Taco Day Timeline

1890s First taco reference

The term ‘taco’ associated with miners in Mexico is first referenced in the late 19th century.

1914 Earliest known English-language taco recipe

As part of “California Mexican Spanish Cookbook”, this first taco recipe in English is published featuring a crunchy shell. 

1962 First Taco Bell opens

This restaurant, in Downey, California, will go on to become the largest chain of fast food taco joints in the world. 

1969 Old El Paso in supermarkets

Old El Paso becomes the first national brand to offer a full line of Mexican meals in supermarkets, urging the creation of a Mexican food section.

1986 Taco Bell expands to London

Sadly, Taco Bell can’t make a go of the crunchy taco this time around and closes in London by the mid-1990s.

How to Celebrate National Crunchy Taco Day

Paying heed to National Crunchy Taco Day is certainly no burden! It’s all a delightful way to celebrate this particular taco as well as all things Tex-Mex. Have fun celebrating the day with some of these ideas:

Enjoy Eating Crunchy Tacos

On National Crunchy Taco Day, an obvious – and probably even obligatory – choice is to make sure to eat some crunchy tacos for a meal, whether lunch or dinner, or even for a snack! Crunchy tacos bring a certain kind of delight with mouthwatering flavors and delicious toppings.

Choose a basic crunchy taco with simply meat and cheese, or add a few more toppings to make it even more tasty. Add shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes and sour cream for a supreme version. Or get even more adventurous by adding other toppings such as grilled onions or chunks of avocado. And, of course, don’t forget to add a bit of spice by piling on the hot sauce!

Make Crunchy Tacos at Home

One thing that is really great about tacos is how simple they can be to make at home. But crunchy tacos also offer tons of opportunities for those who enjoy creating more complex flavors in the kitchen. Obviously, one of the most vital ingredients in making crunchy tacos at home is the need for crunchy taco shells. These can be easily sourced from a supermarket or Mexican grocery store and then heated in the oven at home. But they can also be made from scratch, for those who are feeling a bit more adventurous.

The next more important ingredient for making this dish in honor of National Crunchy Taco Day is the meat. Most people choose ground beef to serve inside of crunchy tacos, and it tastes best when it has been able to marinate in delicious seasonings for some time before serving.

While the meat is cooking, create a bar full of yummy options for topping crunchy tacos. Cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, hot sauce, black beans, refried beans and guacamole are all items that people love to pile on top of their crunchy tacos. Choose a variety of options and let everyone make their own decisions about which topping options are their favorite!

Host a National Crunchy Taco Day Party

Tacos are a fun food to celebrate, and they’re especially easy for groups of people to pitch in. Set up a crunchy taco bar in the breakroom and work and have everyone bring a different topping. Or invite friends over to the house after work for a tasty taco bar at home. Plus, at home, it’s fun to be able to add some traditional Tex-Mex drinks such as pitchers of Margaritas, cold Coronas, or Jarritos for the kids.

While crunchy tacos are certainly the star of the show, it might also be good to add other elements to the party to get everyone in an even more festive mood. Decorate with a Tex-Mex theme and put on a playlist with traditional Mexican themed music, like from a Mariachi band. It might even be a fun idea to ask guests to dress up in a serape, sombrero, or some other nod to traditional dress south of the border, just to complete the occasion. For dessert, serve some churros, sopapillas or flan.

Get Creative with Crunchy Tacos

For those folks who tend to have crispy tacos on the regular, whether making them at home or ordering them at a restaurant, it might be fun to get a bit more creative with recipes in honor of National Crunchy Taco Day.

When making crunchy tacos at home, try out some of these ideas that can add a bit of flair for the occasion:

Crispy Tofu Tacos – fill crunchy shells with fried tofu and add toppings.

BBQ Crunchy Tacos – substitute regular ground beef with barbecue.

Potato Tacos – made with mashed potatoes, cheese, lettuce and sauce, this one is great for vegetarians.

Fried Avocado Tacos – just like the crispy tofu tacos, also for vegetarians!

National Crunchy Taco Day FAQs

Are Taco Bell crunchy tacos gluten free?

Although they are made with corn and no gluten, Taco Bell crunchy tacos are not made in a completely gluten free facility. 

Are crunchy tacos Mexican?

Crunchy tacos actually seem to have been created in the United States, likely by Mexican-Americans.

Do crunchy taco shells go bad?

While they probably won’t be bad for you, they can certainly get stale. 

What are crunchy taco shells made of?

Crunchy taco shells are made from limed corn flour, palm oil and salt.

How to make crunchy taco shells?

Crunchy taco shells can be made from corn tortillas that are either baked or deep fried.

Source

[thepencilsnameissteve]

Here's how I personally enjoy different vegetables as a "picky eater" (autistic):

Cooked baby carrots - get a microwave safe bowl, add some carrots and water, cook in microwave for a few minutes. Boom! Nice and warm and soft. Nice taste too.

Frozen vegetables - I do the same thing to cook them as the carrots, and I add salt after. Vegetables for this are usually corn, green beans, and edamame. For edamame specifically if you don't like the shells you can buy them unshelled and eat them like popcorn!! Or you can unshell them yourself. They actually are very tasty.

Black beans - I get the cans and you can heat them up over the stove or in a microwave. I find adding cheddar cheese and/or feta is good, also salt. Eating them with white rice and/or tortilla chips is also very nice!

Zucchini - oven cooked with salt!

You can and should eat vegetables as a part of a balanced diet. It's definitely not the easiest, but don't feel pressured to eat EVERY vegetable, because that makes it harder.

That list up there might seem like a lot, but here's an even longer list of all the vegetables I don't eat or even avoid. (And also why)

Broccoli (texture and taste)

Celery (texture and taste)

Lettuce (texture and taste)

Peas (allergic)

Bell peppers (allergic)

Asparagus (texture and taste)

Cabbage (just gonna shorten it to tnt)

Cucumber (TNT)

Radishes (TNT)

Spinach (TNT)

Etc. Etc.

I should note that bell peppers are fruits and peas and beans are legumes but... I don't need to be pedantic all the time! (Even though I want to)

THE POINT IS - You can do this.

And y'know what I'll say it - I kinda love vegetables. As long as they're prepared the way I like, they can be quite a good snack.

i mean this in the gentlest way possible: you need to eat vegetables. you need to become comfortable with doing so. i do not care if you are a picky eater because of autism (hi, i used to be this person!), you need to find at least some vegetables you can eat. find a different way to prepare them. chances are you would like a vegetable you hate if you prepared it in a stew or roasted it with seasoning or included it as an ingredient in a recipe. just. please start eating better. potatoes and corn are not sufficient vegetables for a healthy diet.

[merikus]

Here are some tasty Egg Salad Taco and Egg Salad Burrito recipes you can try:

Egg Salad Tacos

Ingredients:

4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped

1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives

1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped

6 small soft tortillas (corn or flour)

Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, hot sauce, avocado slices

Instructions:

In a bowl, mash the chopped hard-boiled eggs with a fork.

Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Stir in the green onions or chives and fresh dill or parsley.

Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave for a few seconds.

Spoon the egg salad mixture into each tortilla.

Add optional toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Fold up the tacos and serve immediately.

Egg Salad Burritos

Ingredients:

4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)

1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup chopped celery (optional for crunch)

1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives

2 large flour tortillas

1/2 cup shredded lettuce

1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite)

Salsa, for serving

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Add the chopped celery and green onions (if using), and mix everything together.

Warm the flour tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.

Lay the tortillas flat and spread a generous amount of the egg salad down the center.

Top with shredded lettuce and cheese.

Fold the sides of the tortilla in and roll it up into a burrito.

Serve with salsa on the side or drizzle over the top.

These egg salad tacos and burritos are quick and satisfying meals that can be customized with your favorite toppings!

[chipotlemenu]

Exploring the Chipotle Menu: A Guide to Bold Flavors and Fresh Ingredients

Introduction

When it comes to a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice quality, Chipotle is at the top of many people’s lists. Known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and commitment to quality, Chipotle offers a variety of customizable options that keep fans coming back for more. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything from the signature burritos to hidden gems like the Chipotle Kids Meal Hack and how to navigate the Chipotle Allergen Menu. Whether you're a Chipotle veteran or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone to discover!

The Signature Experience of Chipotle

Chipotle stands out for its mission to serve "food with integrity." Using sustainably sourced ingredients, organic produce, and responsibly raised meats, Chipotle combines fast-food convenience with a commitment to quality. This dedication shines through in every dish, offering customers a fresh, flavorful experience with each order.

Understanding Chipotle’s Menu Structure

Chipotle's menu is streamlined yet highly customizable, focusing on a handful of core items: burritos, bowls, tacos, salads, and kids’ meals. Each base comes with a selection of proteins, veggies, and toppings, allowing customers to create a meal tailored to their tastes. This structure makes it easy to explore new flavor combinations and keep each visit unique.

Burritos: The Fan-Favorite

Chipotle's burritos are legendary. Packed with your choice of protein—like chicken, steak, barbacoa, carnitas, or sofritas (for plant-based eaters)—they’re stuffed with a variety of fillings, from cilantro-lime rice to black or pinto beans, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole. Want to make it a meal to remember? Add extra toppings like fajita veggies, fresh salsas, or a hint of Chipotle’s spicy red sauce.

Bowls for a Healthier Twist

For those looking to cut down on carbs or simply enjoy a lighter meal, Chipotle’s bowls are a fantastic option. By opting out of the tortilla, you can load up on nutrient-dense ingredients while keeping things balanced. Some popular bowl combinations include chicken with cauliflower rice, black beans, fresh tomato salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese.

Tacos: A Smaller, Flavor-Packed Option

With soft or crispy shells, Chipotle’s tacos pack a punch in a smaller package. Each taco can be customized with proteins, salsas, and extras. For a tasty taco, try filling a soft corn shell with barbacoa, fresh tomato salsa, fajita veggies, and a dash of cheese. Tacos are perfect for sampling multiple flavor combinations in one meal!

Salads for a Fresh, Lighter Meal

Chipotle’s salads provide a refreshing option for those wanting to skip the carbs altogether. Starting with a bed of lettuce, you can add your choice of protein, black or pinto beans, and toppings. The vinaigrette dressing is a fan favorite for adding a touch of tang to your salad. Try combining carnitas with black beans, pico de gallo, and a scoop of guacamole for a satisfying yet lighter meal.

Chipotle Allergen Menu: A Vital Resource

Chipotle’s commitment to inclusivity extends to customers with food allergies. The Chipotle Allergen Menu is an essential tool, highlighting which items contain common allergens like dairy, gluten, and soy. For gluten-free diners, Chipotle offers a variety of choices including bowls and salads (as long as you skip the flour tortillas). The menu is easy to navigate and ensures a safe dining experience for everyone.

The Chipotle Kids Meal Hack

Chipotle's Kids Meal is a lesser-known yet versatile menu item. Intended for younger diners, it comes with a smaller portion of proteins and sides, along with a choice of toppings. However, the Chipotle Kids Meal Hack involves ordering it for yourself if you're craving a lighter meal or want to save a few bucks. It’s customizable and can satisfy lighter appetites without overloading on calories.

Sides and Add-Ons for Extra Flavor

No Chipotle meal is complete without their famous guacamole! Other popular sides include chips with salsa or queso, and a variety of add-ons. Each side is crafted with the same attention to quality as their main dishes, making them great for rounding out your meal. Whether you’re dipping into queso or adding a bit of guac on the side, Chipotle’s extras elevate every meal.

Desserts and Drinks at Chipotle

While Chipotle’s dessert options are limited, their drinks selection is broad, including options like fresh lemonades, sodas, and bottled drinks. Pairing a fresh lemonade with a spicy burrito can be a refreshing way to balance flavors, while their margaritas add a unique twist for an occasional treat.

Plant-Based Options at Chipotle

Chipotle caters to vegetarians and vegans with its sofritas, a spicy tofu option. In addition, there are plenty of fresh veggies, beans, and rice that create satisfying plant-based meals. Pair sofritas with brown rice, black beans, fajita veggies, and a scoop of Chipotle's zesty salsa for a vibrant, flavorful bowl.

How to Order for Different Dietary Needs

Chipotle makes it easy to accommodate various diets. For those on a gluten-free diet, simply avoid the flour tortillas. Keto dieters can skip the rice and beans in favor of extra cheese, guacamole, and meats. Chipotle’s menu also has options for those watching their calorie intake, with items like bowls and salads offering a lighter alternative to burritos.

Ordering on the Chipotle App and Online

Chipotle’s app and online ordering system make customizing and picking up meals easy. You can modify every ingredient, save your favorite combinations, and even schedule pickups. This digital convenience is perfect for anyone on the go and ensures that your meal is ready when you are.

Conclusion

From burritos to salads, Chipotle offers something for everyone with a taste for bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The Chipotle Allergen Menu and Chipotle Kids Meal Hack provide unique ways to enjoy a safe and customizable dining experience. Whether you're a health-conscious eater, a taco lover, or someone with dietary restrictions, Chipotle’s menu is full of options waiting to be explored.

FAQs

What’s the Chipotle Kids Meal Hack?

The Chipotle Kids Meal Hack involves ordering the kids' meal for a smaller, customizable portion perfect for lighter appetites or those on a budget.

How do I find allergen information for Chipotle’s menu?

The Chipotle Allergen Menu is available online and in-store, making it easy to see which items are safe for your dietary needs.

Are there vegan options at Chipotle?

Yes, Chipotle offers vegan-friendly options like sofritas and a wide variety of veggies, rice, and beans.

Can I customize my Chipotle order online?

Absolutely! Chipotle’s app and website allow you to customize every part of your meal and schedule a convenient pickup time.

What are the best options for a gluten-free meal at Chipotle?

Chipotle offers plenty of gluten-free options. Choose a bowl or salad and avoid the flour tortillas for a safe, gluten-free meal.

[mlktoscl]

If you don't want to eat meat, these vegan lentil tacos are a tasty and filling alternative. They're great for a quick and easy weeknight dinner because they're full of protein and fiber. Add your favorite toppings to make a meal that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils. 1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 onion, diced. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 bell pepper, diced. 1 tablespoon chili powder. 1 teaspoon cumin. 1/2 teaspoon paprika. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Salt and pepper to taste. 8 small corn tortillas. Toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, vegan sour cream.

Instructions: Warm up a big pan with olive oil over medium-low heat. Peel and chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces. Cook until it gets soft. Put in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir the lentils in very well. Stir every now and then for 5 to 7 minutes. In a separate pan or oven, warm the corn tortillas. Put some of the lentil mixture into each tortilla and then add whatever toppings you want on top. Enjoy while still warm!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Judy R

[jagjagmo]

These Spinach Lentil Enchiladas are a great way to make a traditional Mexican dish vegan. They are hearty, tasty, and perfect for a satisfying meal because they are full of protein-rich lentils and healthy spinach.

Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils. 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped. 1 small onion, diced. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 teaspoon ground cumin. 1 teaspoon chili powder. 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Salt and pepper to taste. 8 small corn tortillas. 2 cups enchilada sauce. 1 cup vegan cheese, shredded. 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Instructions: Warm the oven up to 190C 375F. Put olive oil in a pan and heat it over medium-low heat. Put in the garlic and onion, and cook them until they get soft. It's time to cook the spinach. Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, along with the cooked lentils. Go on and cook for two more minutes. Put a little enchilada sauce on the base of a baking dish. For about 30 seconds, warm the tortillas in the microwave to make them easy to shape. Put some of the lentil mixture on each tortilla and roll them up tightly. Put it in the baking dish seam-side down. Cover the rolled tortillas with the rest of the enchilada sauce. Add vegan cheese on top. Put the enchiladas in an oven that has already been heated up for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are hot all the way through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want, you can serve it hot with fresh cilantro on top.

Gia Waters

[catawampuscreations]

Traditional Migas tacos with a vegan twist: tasty tofu scramble and fresh toppings make these tacos great for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 small onion, diced. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 block firm tofu, crumbled. 1/4 cup nutritional yeast. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric. 1/2 teaspoon cumin. 1/2 teaspoon chili powder. Salt and pepper to taste. 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro. 6 small corn tortillas. 1 avocado, sliced. Salsa and hot sauce, for serving.

Instructions: Set a pan on medium heat and add the olive oil. Put in the minced garlic and diced onion and saut until the onion is soft. Break up the tofu and add it to the pan along with the nutritional yeast, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. While cooking, stir the tofu every so often until it's fully heated and starts to turn a little brown. Add the chopped cilantro and mix well. Use a different pan or oven to warm up the corn tortillas. Cover all of the tortillas with the tofu mixture. Add cheese, salsa, and hot sauce on top. Serve right away and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nathalie

[evocativesynthesis]

Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Soup is a hearty and tasty meal that is great for cold days. The soft chicken, black beans, corn, and Mexican spices make this a comforting meal that's simple to make and delight in.

Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts. 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed. 1 can 15 oz corn kernels, drained. 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes. 1 onion, chopped. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 bell pepper, chopped. 1 jalapeo pepper, diced optional for extra heat. 4 cups chicken broth. 1 teaspoon ground cumin. 1 teaspoon chili powder. 1 teaspoon paprika. Salt and pepper to taste. Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish. Lime wedges for serving. Avocado slices for serving. Tortilla chips for serving.

Instructions: Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeo pepper if using on top of the chicken. In a separate bowl, mix together chicken broth, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and flavors are well blended. Once cooked, remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges, avocado slices, and tortilla chips. Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Soup!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 360 minutes

Roaming with Rhonda

[cazavelocidadesmadrid]

Slow Cooker Pork Adobada Tacos are a delicious treat made with tender, flavorful pork cooked slowly in a smoky adobo sauce. You can have these tacos for dinner during the week or at a casual get-together with family and friends.

Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into chunks. 1 onion, chopped. 4 cloves garlic, minced. 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped. 1 tablespoon ground cumin. 1 tablespoon dried oregano. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. 1/2 cup tomato sauce. 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Salt and pepper to taste. Corn tortillas. Toppings of your choice e.g., chopped onions, cilantro, lime wedges, cotija cheese.

Instructions: Put the pork chunks, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker. Make sure to mix everything together well so that the pork is covered in the seasoning mix. Turn the heat down to low and cover the slow cooker. Cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is soft enough to shred with a fork. When the pork is done, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker and mix it with the tasty sauce. You can heat the corn tortillas up in the microwave or a dry pan. Place a small amount of the soft pork adobada on each tortilla. Then, add your favorite toppings, like cotija cheese, chopped onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Enjoy your tasty Slow Cooker Pork Adobada Tacos while they're still hot.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Taco Day

Have a taco party with friends, go to a Mexican restaurant, or hit up a taco stand for one of the world’s most beloved and time-honored cuisines.

Tacos are the Mexican equivalent of a sandwich. Instead of bread, a hard or soft tortilla is wrapped or folded around a spicy filling. But, also, in essence, these little folded pockets of goodness are so much more than just a sandwich!

And this is the day to find out why. Because it’s National Taco Day!

History of National Taco Day

It is not known exactly when this tasty food originated, but tacos themselves seem to have been around for a long time. They were first referenced by their current name at the end of the 19th century, but the conquistador Cortez mentioned a meal prepared with tortillas as far back as 1520!

Back in those days, this would have been referring to a type of soft wheat or corn tortillas. Hard taco shells are a much more recent innovation. Of course, as Americans got their hands on this delicious food, it has evolved, morphed, and grown into something that is less of a food and more of an institution! And that’s why National Taco Day was created. To celebrate the grand institution of the taco.

While some people may find themselves celebrating this tasty Mexican dish every week on Taco Tuesday, this is a special National Taco Day that only comes around once a year. So get ready to celebrate and enjoy the beauty and flavor of the taco!

How to Celebrate National Taco Day

Enjoying National Taco Day is super easy with all kinds of options that involve making, eating and celebrating everything that has to do with the taco! Try these ideas out for inspiration:

Go Out to a Mexican Restaurant

And this isn’t referring to Taco Bell. On this day, it is important to find the most authentic, genuinely Mexican establishment possible. Preferably this will be a locally owned and operated restaurant, hopefully with a cook who truly has some Mexican roots!

The tacos at a truly authentic Mexican restaurant will be different from what might be found at an Americanized joint. These genuine tacos will be made with soft corn tortillas (not deep-fried or baked) that are filled with meat. 

The meat options will typically be “pollo”, which is chicken, “pastor” which is pork, or “barbacoa” which is usually made with beef. No ground beef here! The meat will have been slow-cooked to perfection in spices that bring the flavor all throughout. 

On top of the meat will be a selection of toppings, such as onions, cilantro, pico de gallo, or even sliced radishes or cucumbers. And they absolutely must be served with lime to be freshly squeezed over them just before eating. Delicious! 

Throw a Taco Party with Friends

Taco day is often celebrated by having taco parties for friends. Of course, the main activity and one of these parties AND the food would all be the same thing: Tacos! Making them and eating them is all part of the fun.

There are many possible combinations when it comes to making tacos–whether at home alone or at a party. Start with a base filling of beef, chicken, fish, seafood, beans, or vegetables, and then mix and match preferred toppings.

For additional flavors, try a favorite combination of sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, chopped tomato, onion, salsa, pico de gallo and cheese for a tasty treat that’s great for sharing.

Try a Unique Take on Tacos

While most people have a basic idea of what a taco would normally be like, the sky’s the limit when it comes to getting creative with this form of cuisine! As long as it comes in a little pocket, almost anything can become a taco. Try out these unique taco recipes to insert a bit more pizazz into National Taco Day:

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken Tacos. Taking it from south of the border to over in the pacific, this fusion taco recipe is amazing. Huli Huli is a kind of chicken that is grilled over mesquite barbeque and basted with pineapple juice, soy sauce and fresh ginger. Add a salsa made from pineapple, mango and avocado, and this taco is absolutely to die for.

Shrimp Tacos with Mango Habanero Salsa. The heat of the habanero pepper combines with the fruity sweetness of the mango to create a balance that will bring tears to the eyes. Plus, simmering red onions in a bit of vinegar creates a pickled flavor that brings everything together.

Chicken Cabbage Potato Tacos with Apple Pico de Gallo. Another rather unique one, this one pulls in those random ingredients left in the kitchen and makes them into something absolutely wonderful.

Irish Guiness Tacos. Where would the Irish be without their beer? The pork in this taco is braised with Guiness, bringing out the deep flavors. Add a bit of lime zest and some crema, and this Irish/Mexican fusion is ready to go.

Finish Things Off with Dessert Tacos

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with adding a little sweetness to the end of a meal. People have used all kinds of different ingredients to morph this dish into something dessert-worthy.

Consider these delicious ideas for dessert tacos:

Apple Pie Tacos. Take an all-American dessert like Apple Pie and put it in a Mexican taco? Yes, please! Regular flour tortillas are deep fried into a taco shape and then dipped in a cinnamon sugar concoction. Fill them with apple pie filling and top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

Brown Butter Crepe Choco Tacos. Turn those crepes (made with browned butter) into taco shells by draping them over a taco rack. Allow to cool and fill them with all kinds of deliciousness, such as chocolate ice cream and nutella.

Sugar Cookie Fruit Tacos. Folded just slightly, large sugar cookies make the perfect “shell” for a dessert taco. Add chopped fruit, such as strawberries and kiwi, and top with sweetened whipped cream. This is a delightful summer treat!

Waffle Cone Choco Tacos. Make mini waffles into taco shapes instead of cones. Fill with homemade ice cream or frozen custard, and dip into chocolate. Freeze for 20-30 minutes before serving.

Find National Taco Day Discounts and Deals

Depending on the location, some Mexican themed restaurants may be putting out some special deals in honor of National Taco Day. Although they can change every year, here are some places that have offered deals for past National Taco Days:

Taco John’s. This American chain with more than 400 restaurants in 23 states, has been known to give away one free beef taco (crispy or soft shell) to those who have a coupon–which has been sent out on Twitter in previous years.

Del Taco. WIth more than 600 locations in the southern and western United States, this chain has been known to offer BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) on various taco platters in celebration of the day.

On the Border. Sick of fast food? This chain offers sit-down service but still has been known to sponsor 50 cent tacos for National Taco Day.

Source

[obrpdd]

Easy to make and very tasty, these tacos with pulled pork are cooked slowly. A tasty mix of spices is used to season the pork shoulder, and it is cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. For a dinner that everyone will love, put the soft pulled pork on warm corn tortillas and top them with your favorite taco toppings.

Ingredients: 4 lbs pork shoulder, trimmed and cut into chunks. 2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 cup chicken broth. 1 large onion, finely chopped. 4 cloves garlic, minced. 2 teaspoons ground cumin. 2 teaspoons smoked paprika. 1 teaspoon dried oregano. 1 teaspoon chili powder. Salt and pepper to taste. Corn tortillas, for serving. Your favorite taco toppings salsa, shredded cheese, guacamole, etc..

Instructions: Warm up the olive oil in a big pan over medium-high heat. Add cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the pork chunks. Put the pork in the pan and brown it all over. Put the pork in a slow cooker after it has been browned. Chop the onions and cook them in the same skillet until they are soft. Then add the garlic and cook for one more minute. Add chicken broth to the pan and scrape the bottom to get rid of any browned bits. Add the pork to the slow cooker along with the onion and broth mixture. Turn the heat down to low, cover, and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is soft and can be pulled apart with a fork. When the pork is done, shred it with two forks in the slow cooker and mix it with the tasty juices. Mix the pulled pork with the corn tortillas while they are still warm. Add the things you like most to your tacos and enjoy!

Walter

[giacoppola]

The soft grilled fish, crunchy cabbage, creamy avocado, and sour lime in these Grilled Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos are the perfect mix of tastes and textures. They're simple to make and full of fresh ingredients, which makes them a great choice for a meal that is both light and filling.

Ingredients: 4 Mahi Mahi fillets 6 ounces each. 1 tablespoon olive oil. 1 teaspoon chili powder. 1 teaspoon cumin. 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Salt and pepper to taste. 8 small corn tortillas. 1 cup shredded cabbage. 1 avocado, sliced. 1/2 cup diced tomatoes. 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. 1 lime, cut into wedges. Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce optional.

Instructions: Warm the grill up to a medium-high level. Put chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix them together. The Mahi Mahi fillets should be rubbed on both sides with this mixture. Mahi Mahi fillets should be cooked on a hot grill for four to five minutes on each side, or until the fish is flaky when a fork is stuck into it. Warm up the corn tortillas on the grill for about one minute on each side while the fish cooks. After the fish is fully cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, break it up into big pieces. Put a few pieces of grilled Mahi Mahi on top of each warm tortilla to make the tacos. Shred cabbage, slice avocado, dice tomatoes, and chop cilantro and put them on top. Along with lime wedges and Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce, if you want. Have fun with your tasty grilled Mahi Mahi fish tacos!

Addie French

[thesmithian]

For taco night, these gluten-free Black Bean Turkey Tacos are a tasty and healthy choice. They are easy to make and can be changed up with your favorite toppings. They are full of flavor, protein, and fiber.

Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey. 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed. 1 cup diced tomatoes. 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper. 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper. 1/4 cup diced red onion. 2 cloves garlic, minced. 2 tsp ground cumin. 1 tsp chili powder. 1/2 tsp paprika. Salt and pepper to taste. Corn tortillas gluten-free. Toppings of your choice: shredded lettuce, diced avocado, dairy-free cheese, salsa, and cilantro.

Instructions: Over medium-low heat, break up the ground turkey with a spatula as it cooks in a large skillet. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked. Put the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic into the pan. After 3 to 4 minutes, the vegetables will start to get soft. Add the tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the black beans are drained and rinsed. Add three to four more minutes of cooking to let the flavors mix. Follow the directions on the package to warm the gluten-free corn tortillas in a dry skillet or the microwave. To put it together, put some of the turkey and black bean mix on each tortilla. There are many things you can put on top, like shredded lettuce, diced avocado, salsa, cilantro, and dairy-free cheese. Black Bean Turkey Tacos that are gluten-free are ready to eat right away.

Jacob

[livinginthestills]

A tasty and filling vegetarian option are these Roasted Salsa and Black Bean Tacos. Taco filling made delicious with roasted salsa that gives the black beans a smoky depth of flavor. Add your preferred toppings to personalize it, then eat a tasty, fast meal!

Ingredients: 2 cups black beans, cooked. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved. 1 red onion, diced. 1 jalapeo, minced. 1 lime, juiced. 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. 1 teaspoon cumin. 1 teaspoon chili powder. Salt and pepper to taste. 8 small corn tortillas. 1 avocado, sliced. 1/2 cup shredded lettuce. 1/2 cup shredded cheese optional. Sour cream for serving optional.

Instructions: Set oven temperature to 400F 200C. Black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeo, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper should all be combined in a bowl. Blend thoroughly. Arrange the bean mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and have a hint of char. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or the microwave while the salsa roasts. Spoon each tortilla with roasted salsa to assemble the tacos. If preferred, add cheese, shredded lettuce, and avocado slices on top. If preferred, top the black bean tacos with a scoop of sour cream served on the side. Savor your mouthwatering Roasted Salsa with Black Bean Tacos!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ivan Dunn