Mexican tacos and Lebanese shawarma are two internationally renowned dishes. Tacos were originally created as portable meals for miners with fillings like beef, pork or chicken accompanied with vegetables and salsa. Shawarma, originating in the Middle East, comprises thinly sliced lamb or chicken marinated with spices like coriander, cumin and paprika, and served in a wrap with vegetables and sauces. Tacos can be either crispy or soft and are individually prepared, while shawarma is prepared by roasting the meat for hours before being served in a wrap. Both dishes are packed with unique flavours that provide a window into their respective cultures.
Mexican Tacos vs. Lebanese Shawarma: A Global Tasting Experience
As we travel around the world, one of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food. Two beloved dishes that have traveled beyond their countries of origin are Mexican tacos and Lebanese shawarma. Let’s delve into these delectable morsels and compare and contrast their similarities and differences.
History and Origins
Tacos are a Mexican icon and their history dates back to the 18th century. They were created in the silver mines in Mexico as a portable meal for mine workers. Tacos were traditionally filled with spicy meats like beef, pork, or chicken, and topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa.
Shawarma, on the other hand, originated in the Middle East, specifically in Turkey and Lebanon. It consists of thinly sliced meat, typically lamb or chicken, that is marinated and roasted on a vertical spit. The meat is then shaved off and served in a wrap with vegetables and sauces.
Taste and Flavors
Both tacos and shawarma pack a punch in terms of flavors. Tacos are spicy, savory, and zesty, with flavors that range from smoky to tangy. In contrast, shawarma is known for its rich and bold flavors. The meat is typically marinated with flavorful spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cardamom, giving it a complex and fragrant taste.
Meat and Fillings
Meat is at the heart of both tacos and shawarma. Tacos are typically stuffed with grilled or slow-cooked meats, seasoned with an array of spices, like chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Shawarma, on the other hand, features thinly sliced meats that are slowly roasted on a spit, resulting in a tender and juicy filling.
While tacos are commonly filled with meat, vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and onions also play a significant role in the dish. Shawarma, by comparison, is filled with vegetables, like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and is often served with hummus and other sauces.
Preparation and Cooking Methods
The preparation and cooking of tacos and shawarma vary significantly. Tacos are typically filled and wrapped in soft tortillas or crispy shells, and each taco is prepared individually. In contrast, shawarma is typically cooked on a vertical spit, slowly roasted over charcoal, and shaved off the spit when ready.
Tacos require a lot of preparation, including seasoning, grilling or slow-cooking, and chopping vegetables for toppings. Shawarma, on the other hand, requires marinating the meat for several hours before roasting, which can take several hours.
Conclusion
The global popularity of tacos and shawarma cannot be denied, and both dishes are beloved for their delicious flavors and unique cooking methods. While they share similarities, they also have distinct differences that make them unique.
Mexican tacos have a bold and zesty flavor, with a variety of meat and vegetable fillings, and are individually prepared. Lebanese shawarma, on the other hand, is known for its complex and fragrant taste, featuring thinly sliced meat that’s roasted for hours, and served in a wrap with vegetables and sauces.
Both dishes are delicious, and offer a unique taste of their respective cultures. The next time you’re looking to experience a new culture through its food, why not give tacos or shawarma a try?