Gastropod Talking Taco
18 snips
Sep 9, 2025 Join food studies expert Jeffrey Pilcher and writer Alonso Rubalcaba as they unravel the delicious history of tacos. Discover the fascinating journey of Al Pastor tacos and their unique evolution, including a pineapple twist! Explore taco traditions in early 20th century Mexico and their socio-economic implications. Learn how tacos transformed from regional specialties to fast-food icons, thanks in part to Glen Bell. Finally, dive into the global taco phenomenon and its exciting cultural adaptations around the world. It's a tasty journey through time!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Taco's Mining Origin
- The modern word “taco” arose in 19th-century Mexican silver mines where miners called gunpowder-packed paper "tacos."
- Miners also packed tortillas with potatoes and salsa and began calling those lunch wraps tacos.
From Miners To Street Food
- The edible taco name spread from miners to Mexico City as mine families sold tortillas filled with stews on the street.
- By the early 1900s, tacos became ubiquitous and diversified into regional varieties.
Tortilla As Culinary Canvas
- Regional migrants used the tortilla as a vessel to showcase their home cuisines, creating many taco types.
- Tacos became a flexible platform for diverse fillings like carnitas, mariscos, cochinita, and al pastor.
