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Every year, Americans eat almost 5 million tacos. From high-end foodie fare to casual street food, this long-heralded Mexican food staple seldom has a naysayer. While the origins of the taco aren't totally clear, its popularity across the country is. Here is a guide to the history of tacos and what people love so much about them. 

History of Tacos

Theories suggest that the birth of tacos dates back to the 18th century, cultivated by Mexican silver miners. The word taco was used to describe the small explosives used to excavate the ore. The first documented references of a taco were in the 19th century using the words tacos de miner, which translates to "miner's taco." The taqueritas of the 1900s were in working-class neighborhoods of Mexico City where industrialization brought immigrants and their cooking skills from regions all over the country.

Tacos were considered street food and lower class when compared to European fare. However, this native delicacy gained political legitimacy among Spanish conquistadores when Mexican food became associated with the Aztecs, rather than the natives who were currently alive. The first mention of a taco in America was in 1905, referring to the Chili Queens—immigrant women with pushcarts selling tamales on the streets of Los Angeles. Mexican food became a staple between 1910 and 1920 when children of immigrants advanced economically, gaining civil rights and citizenship. 

Mexican Food

Reasons People Love Tacos

Tacos are the ultimate hand-held, customizable meal or snack. Whether you prefer shrimp, beef, fish, or chicken—or more native ingredients like beef tongue, tripe, and grasshoppers—a taco can be made exactly the way you want it. With foundational ingredients of meat, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream on a corn tortilla, you can feed a group of people easily and affordably.

Tacos also include ingredients from almost every food group. This flavorful and savory staple of Mexican cuisine is a product of immigrants and is deeply woven into the folds of this country's diverse tapestry. 

 

When you're craving authentic Mexican food, turn to a restaurant that gives you a taste of Mexico in every bite. At Patron Mexican Grill, diners are entranced by the inviting flavors and aromas of this rich culture. Their extensive menu includes genuine recipes created from old traditions you would only expect to find south of the border. Their commitment to locally grown ingredients and in-house preparation are evidenced in the quality of their cuisine. Enjoy a night out with the family or tequila with friends. With locations in Cranberry Township, Pittsburgh, Monroeville, Fox Chapel, and Wexford, PA, a delicious meal is always within reach. To see the full menu, visit the website. To find out their daily specials, call (724) 741-4455.

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