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May 2021
What's the Difference Between the Types of Taco Shells?
Traditional tacos may have been made from corn or flour tortillas, but tacos can now come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. However, we believe that the most distinct part of the taco is the shell. Today, there is an endless variety of appetizing taco shells to choose from. The choice really depends on what your personal preferences are and what type of filling you are looking to pair with it. In this blog, we will be discussing the many delicious varieties of taco shells you can try.
The History of Tacos
The history of tacos is both diverse and centuries old. Originating in Mexico, the earliest tacos were made up of freshly-prepared tortillas stuffed with protein and vegetables, providing a fulfilling meal for those living there. Today, the flavorsome combination of filling and shells that goes into this wonderful dish continues to draw people to its delicious taste. The use of tortillas as a taco shell has remained a tried-and-true choice, however, modern variations of classic taco shells are also a wonderful option served today.
The Hard Taco Shell
Hard taco shells were popularized in the world of Mexican-American cuisine in the 20th century. This revolutionary spin on tacos all began when corn tortillas were deep-fried and turned into something completely unexpected - hard, crunchy taco shells that were perfect for holding fillings of meat, cheese, and vegetables. Nowadays, hard taco shells are probably what first comes to mind when you think of tacos. However, these crunchy shells are far from the original taco dish.
The Soft Taco Shell
Tacos made with soft corn tortillas were the first to ever be created and still remain popular today. The perfect shell for tacos, these tortillas are steamed or warmed before being filled to the brim with delectable toppings. Street tacos commonly use the preferred shell of soft corn tortillas. You'll oftentimes see these corn tortillas double-layered.
The Flour Tortilla Shell
Corn tortillas have been a traditional staple of the Mexican diet for generations, but modern flour tortillas now provide an alternative that's become just as popular. It's thought that flour tortillas originated somewhere in Northern Mexico, and now they are often the choice for dishes like burritos and tacos. Flour tortillas offer a different texture and flavor. Without corn, they have a much simpler flavor and are extremely soft. Even the cooking process is different. It’s as simple as adding a few ingredients to some flour, rolling it out into a thin circle, and then quickly cooking it up on a hot griddle or pan.
The Waffle Shell
Waffle shells are a revolutionary way to enjoy tacos. Can you imagine the delicious flavor of chicken encased in a golden, crisp waffle shell? Or sweet fillings like fruit and cream cheese wrapped in a warm waffle? This is an incredibly versatile shell choice that can be enjoyed as either a savory or sweet dish. Waffle shells are as far from traditional tacos as you can get, but offer amazing tastes and textures for a unique eating experience.
The Edible Taco Bowl
This next taco shell is far from the classic shape of a taco because it is actually a taco bowl. Designed to hold even more fillings, they are deep-fried flour tortillas in the shape of a bowl. The flour tortilla becomes crisp and flaky with a different texture from fried corn tortillas. While most commonly used to hold salads, taco bowls can be used for anything! And once you finish eating what’s inside, you can eat the bowl itself.
Healthy Alternatives to Taco Shells
For those seeking a healthier alternative to the conventional fried taco shell, there are many delicious and nutritious substitutes. Lettuce is the most common vegetable-based shell, used by many when making tacos; it's filled with nutrients and makes the filling easy to hold. Furthermore, if you prefer tortillas over lettuce wraps, replacing them with something more healthy is easy. There are many alternative tortillas sold in stores today and you can also make your own at home using ingredients like almond flour.
Taste a Variety of Tacos at Twisted Taco Express
For those looking for excitement and fusion flavor in their tacos, Twisted Taco Express is the spot. Offering a huge selection of unique flavor combinations, you can mix it up every time you come in by trying a new twist on classic tacos. Come visit our Tex-Mex restaurant in Marietta to experience new taco shells and filling combinations.
Twisted Taco Express gift card - perfect for any occasion!
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