Nachos (and something just as good, with our EP Audrey)
Feb 3, 2025
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Discover the surprising origins of nachos, invented for American ladies at a Mexican border town. Dive into the evolution of this beloved snack, learning about both robust Texas-style and traditional variations. Get tips for crafting stunning leftover nachos and engaging ideas for Super Bowl party foods, including unique alternatives beyond nachos. The hosts share personal anecdotes and culinary insights that will elevate your snack game to new heights, making this a must-listen for any food enthusiast.
The history of nachos traces back to 1943 when Ignacio 'Nacho' Anaya created them for a group of female diners.
Two distinct styles of nachos, Texas-style and piled nachos, reflect personal preferences and regional influences in American cuisine.
Crafting the perfect nachos involves strategic layering of ingredients to ensure every chip is flavorful and satisfying for communal enjoyment.
Deep dives
Exploring 'Red for Revolution'
The podcast introduces 'Red for Revolution', a six-part audio drama centered on the experiences of Black women, queer identity, and the themes of love and liberation. The main character, Jasmine, is an 18-year-old navigating her newfound queer identity alongside her first crush and difficulties in her relationship with her homophobic mother. The story also ventures back in time to 1971, where listeners are immersed in the passionate love affair between a jazz singer and an activist who challenge societal norms. The blend of romance, family dynamics, and historical elements, along with an impressive cast, makes this show a multifaceted exploration of love and identity.
The Creation of Nachos
The origin of nachos is traced back to Ignacio 'Nacho' Anaya, who created the dish in 1943 at the Victory Club near the Texas-Mexico border. Anaya prepared 'nachos especiales' by combining tortilla chips with melted cheese and jalapeños to satisfy a group of women dining at the establishment. This inventive dish quickly gained popularity, expanding from Texas to the rest of the Southwest and evolving into various styles, notably the cheese sauce version seen at baseball stadiums in the 1970s. The evolution of nachos reflects the cultural fusion of flavors and cooking techniques prevalent in Tex-Mex cuisine.
Contrasting Nacho Styles
Two distinct styles of nachos are discussed: Texas-style and piled nachos. Texas-style nachos typically feature individually topped chips that are freshly fried, offering a unique texture and taste, while piled nachos present a more chaotic mix of toppings on a single plate. The show highlights differing opinions on which style is superior, showcasing culinary enthusiasts who defend their preferences with passion. The discussion of these styles illustrates the cultural significance of nachos and how they reflect personal tastes and regional variations in American cuisine.
Assembling the Perfect Nachos
Creating the perfect nachos involves a strategic assembly of ingredients to ensure each chip is evenly topped with flavors. The process recommends layering ingredients between chips to avoid a pile of naked chips after the first few bites. The podcast encourages listeners to experiment with various toppings, from traditional cheese and meats to unique options like fresh vegetables and sauces, ensuring a balanced and satisfying end result. This careful construction not only enhances the flavor profile but also elevates the nacho-eating experience, turning it into a communal and enjoyable dish.
Crowd-Pleasing Alternatives for Gatherings
The conversation shifts to innovative, crowd-pleasing food options for gatherings, particularly during events like the Super Bowl. Suggestions include delightful spins on classic dips and cheese-based dishes, such as baked brie with garlic mushrooms or a herby yogurt ranch dip for crudité platters. These ideas inspire listeners to elevate their game-day spreads beyond traditional nachos and wings, allowing for healthier yet indulgent alternatives. By incorporating unique flavors and homemade elements, hosts can create memorable and impressive offerings for their guests, ensuring an enjoyable culinary experience.
Nachos were invented in a Mexican border town for a group of American ladies who lunch, and now they are considered food for the beer-drinking, football-cheering everyman. They can come piled high with twenty ingredients; a plate of nothing more than chips with melted Velveeta are also considered nachos. Whatever floats your tortilla, Kenji and Deb discuss ways to optimize every bite. Also, our Executive Producer Audrey Mardavich gets advice on how to slay the Super Bowl potluck.