Tacos
Tacos, the iconic street food from Mexico, have become a staple on pub menus across Australia. Their versatility, vibrant flavours, and shareable nature make them a perfect fit for pub dining. Whether you’re after something light and fresh or rich and hearty, tacos offer endless possibilities that cater to a variety of tastes.
What are Tacos?
A taco is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a tortilla—soft or crispy—folded around a filling. The beauty of the taco lies in its simplicity, with fresh ingredients and bold flavours working harmoniously. Fillings can range from tender meats to fresh seafood and vegetarian options, all topped with zesty garnishes and sauces.
Tacos in Aussie Pubs
While tacos have long been popular at Mexican restaurants, their growing presence on Australian pub menus speaks to their universal appeal. Pubs often put their own spin on the dish, combining traditional Mexican flavours with local ingredients or fusion elements.
Popular Taco Fillings
Beef: Slow-cooked beef brisket or spiced minced beef with smoky chipotle seasoning.
Chicken: Grilled or shredded chicken, often marinated in zesty lime and coriander.
Fish: Lightly battered or grilled fish paired with tangy slaw and a drizzle of lime crema.
Pork: Pulled pork with a sweet and smoky BBQ glaze or a traditional al pastor-style marinade.
Vegetarian: Spiced black beans, roasted sweet potato, or sautéed mushrooms, topped with fresh guacamole or queso fresco.
Taco Toppings
Toppings are where tacos truly shine, adding texture and flavour layers:
Fresh Garnishes: Diced tomato, onion, coriander, and jalapeños.
Crunch: Shredded lettuce, crispy slaw, or fried shallots.
Cheese: Cheddar, feta, or Mexican queso fresco.
Sauces: Salsa verde, chipotle mayo, sour cream, or tangy lime crema.
The Taco Experience
Pubs often serve tacos as part of share plates, making them ideal for group dining. A platter of assorted tacos allows diners to mix and match flavours, creating a fun and interactive meal experience.
Some venues even offer “Taco Tuesdays,” a weekly special featuring discounted tacos and drink pairings, drawing in taco enthusiasts and curious diners alike.
Why Aussies Love Tacos
Tacos are a hit in Australia for several reasons:
Customisation: Diners can tailor their tacos to their taste preferences, with endless combinations of fillings and toppings.
Freshness: The vibrant, fresh ingredients offer a light yet satisfying meal option.
Shareability: Perfect for social dining, tacos encourage group interaction and variety.
Tacos with a Twist
Australian pubs are known for their creativity, and tacos are no exception. Some popular pub-style taco variations include:
Kangaroo Tacos: A uniquely Aussie twist with tender kangaroo meat, smoky BBQ sauce, and native herbs.
Beer-Battered Fish Tacos: A pub favourite, featuring crispy beer-battered fish with tangy slaw and tartare sauce.
Breakfast Tacos: Scrambled eggs, bacon, avocado, and a dollop of chipotle mayo for a brunch-inspired treat.
Origins of Tacos
Tacos date back to pre-Columbian Mexico, where indigenous peoples used tortillas as a vessel for food. Over centuries, tacos evolved, becoming a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine. The global spread of tacos, particularly through Tex-Mex adaptations, has introduced this versatile dish to millions of diners worldwide.
Perfect Pairings
Tacos pair beautifully with a variety of beverages:
Beer: A crisp lager or pale ale complements the bold flavours.
Cocktails: Margaritas, mojitos, or Palomas add a refreshing citrus kick.
Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lime or a Mexican-style agua fresca (fruit-infused drink).
Tacos: A Pub Staple in the Making
As pubs across Australia embrace more diverse and vibrant menus, tacos have earned their place as a pub staple. Whether served as a light snack, a hearty meal, or part of a share platter, they offer something for everyone.
So, next time you’re at your local pub, skip the schnitzel for a change and give tacos a try. With their bold flavours and endless variety, they might just become your new favourite!
