The Ultimate Mexican Dish: Choosing One Type of Tacos to Live On

Suppose you had to choose just one type of Mexican food to eat the rest of your life. Would it be tacos, burritos, or enchiladas? For many of us, tacos could very well be the answer. This article delves into the joy of tacos, the complexity of selecting one kind to live on, and the reasons why the choice might be harder than you think.

My Boring Approach to Tacos

I'm someone who's quite simple when it comes to delicacies. In my case, the ultimate taco is the one that is sturdy yet comforting. Start with a perfectly crisp taco shell, whether baked in a regular oven or on a griddle, ensuring it doesn't crumble when you take a bite. The ground beef inside should be seasoned to perfection, cooked to a texture that neither falls apart nor becomes overly tough. The addition of a variety of shredded cheeses completes the dish, making sure there is just the right amount of flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients. This is a dish that speaks of personal touch and care, something someone as meticulous as me could achieve even as a teenager.

For me, the ultimate taco isn't about complexity or an overload of ingredients. It's about simplicity and substance. It's the right blend of beef, cheese, and a shell that complements everything. When I need a taco, I'm digging for that perfect blend of flavors and textures that make for a fantastic meal, rather than a complete feast of too much too soon.

Perfection in a Taco

Admittedly, picking a specific type of taco could be a challenging question. Friendships built over conversations about taco perfection are not uncommon. A good taco should be a blend of simplicity and complexity – not too many ingredients, but with just the right mix of flavors.

For me, al pastor stands out. The spit-grilled meat, slightly charred, is a testament to time-honored techniques that bring out the best in the cuts. Seasoned with cloves, cinnamon, and the perfect blend of spices, al pastor tacos embody the essence of Mexican cuisine. Simplicity in flavor yet a deep, complex taste that makes every bite count.

Simple and Undemanding Street Tacos

Speaking of simplicity, the best tacos are often the ones you find at roadside stands or food trucks. Take carnitas, for example. Peroaked with a hint of lime and fresh cilantro, these tacos are a symphony of flavors. The corn tortillas, lightly fried or heated to perfection, wrap around the tender meat, creating a perfect blend of textures. The base ought to be a standard roadside-style taco, rich in flavor without being overly complex. Fresh fish, grilled to perfection with a light touch of spice, or carne asada are also top contenders. For a change of pace, fresh green or red salsa rounds out the flavors, enhancing the taste rather than overpowering it.

A Personal Journey with Tacos

My love for tacos spans a lifetime. Many moons ago, there was an enchanting moment that introduced me to the world of tacos. The "Monster Taco" from the original Jack in the Box JIB, before the Monterey Jacks, was a revelation. It was a break from the mundane tacos I had tasted before, with its fast, skinny, and sexy design, coupled with a spicy kick in a packet. This little Seorita, as I called her, had a magnetic pull, and I couldn't resist her allure. Over the years, I've indulged in various types of tacos, from the finest to the most affordable, but the JIB Monster Taco always remained a constant in my life. Despite my attempts to 'leave her,' she has found a permanent place in my craving center. The idea of choosing just one type of taco that would be my ultimate choice for the rest of my life is fraught with dilemma – how can one possibly forsake the magic of the JIB Monster Taco when it holds such a special place in my heart?

While these tacos hold a special place in my heart, they are not the ultimate choice for everyone. The idea of the 'ultimate' taco remains a personal preference and an individual journey. Autobiographies of my taco cravings might be scandalous, but the joy of these dishes is undeniable.

Conclusion

The quest to choose the ultimate taco is as complex as the dough that makes the perfect taco shell. While al pastor and simple street tacos are top contenders, the decision often comes down to personal preference and individual cravings. Tacos are more than just a meal; they are an experience that evokes memories, emotions, and sensations. So, while it might be tempting to simplify the choice, the reality is that each type of taco holds its unique charm, and the journey of trying them all is what makes this cuisine so delightful.