National taco day
July 31, Thursday
History of National Taco Day
While tacos have been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries, National Taco Day as a holiday is a more recent invention. The exact origins of the holiday are unclear, but it gained popularity in the United States as a way for restaurants and taco enthusiasts to celebrate this versatile dish.
How People Celebrate
People across the country celebrate National Taco Day in various ways:
- Enjoying tacos at their favorite restaurants
- Taking advantage of special deals and discounts offered by taco chains
- Hosting taco parties with friends and family
- Trying new taco recipes at home
- Sharing their taco experiences on social media using hashtags like #NationalTacoDay
Different Types of Tacos
Tacos come in many varieties, with different fillings, shells, and toppings:
- Hard-shell tacos: Crispy corn tortillas filled with seasoned meat, cheese, lettuce, and salsa
- Soft-shell tacos: Made with flour or corn tortillas, often folded and filled with various ingredients
- Street tacos: Small, soft corn tortillas filled with meats like carne asada, carnitas, or al pastor, often topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa
- Fish tacos: A popular choice with battered or grilled fish, cabbage slaw, and creamy sauce
- Vegetarian tacos: Filled with ingredients like beans, grilled vegetables, or tofu
Fun Taco Facts
- The word "taco" is believed to have originated from the 18th-century Mexican silver miners who used "taco" to describe small explosive charges wrapped in paper, similar in shape to a rolled-up taco.
- Americans consume billions of tacos each year, highlighting the dish’s popularity.
- Tacos have evolved to include many creative variations, from Korean-inspired tacos to dessert tacos.
Whether you prefer classic street tacos, crunchy hard shells, or gourmet fusion varieties, National Taco Day provides the perfect excuse to indulge in this delicious dish. So, mark your calendar for October 4th and enjoy some tasty tacos!