The Essential Ingredients for an Authentic Taco Night
What goes inside?
When it comes to preparing an authentic taco night, you’re going to need to start with a protein. At your local Mexican market, they often make it easy by providing pre-marinated options like pork al pastor, chicken pollo, and beef carne asada. You can get all these in a variety pack, which usually comes with around 10 of these delicious options.
But if your local market doesn’t offer these, you can easily make your own marinade using a variety of recipes found online. Opt for flavorful cuts of meat such as pork butt, chicken thighs, or beef flap meat, and give them a vibrant marinade of your choice.
Vegetarians and seafood lovers can also create delightful taco dishes. Try fish, shrimp, or scallops for a seafood twist.
Tortillas
The cornerstone of any taco is the tortilla. Corn tortillas are a staple at authentic Mexican eateries, offering a classic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients. While making your own tortillas can be an adventurous pursuit, high-quality store-bought tortillas are readily available and can make all the difference.
However, if you prefer flour tortillas, you won’t encounter much criticism. Both corn and flour tortillas are widely accepted, and the choice often boils down to personal taste.
Accompaniments and Condiments
Most taco joints keep their garnishes and condiments simple, making your taco night more manageable. If you order 'con todo', you're likely to get a beautifully garnished taco, with everything from chopped white onions and cilantro to lime wedges and radish slices. Some places might even offer roasted jalapeno peppers to spice things up.
Rice and refried beans are a common accompaniment, especially when tacos are on the menu. Sprinkle some cotija cheese over the beans if you’re in the mood for a bit of extra flavor.
Salsas and guacamole add that final touch of authenticity to your taco night. You can go all out and create multiple salsas, including a red, a green, and perhaps a milder option in the middle. However, if making too many salsas sounds like too much work, your local supermarket has pre-made salsa options available, likely made by gringos in New York City (a nod to the cultural blending often seen in American dining).
Enjoy Your Taco Night
No matter which path you choose, the most important thing is to enjoy your taco night. Bon appétit, or in Spanish, buen provecho!