Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are both popular street foods revered for their unique flavors and spices. Tacos were originated in Mexico while Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish originated in Lebanon inspired by Turkish Doner Kabab. Tacos come with a variety of fillings while Shawarma is traditionally made with shaved meat and vegetables. Tacos are known for their spicy, tangy, and savory taste while Shawarma boasts a more complex taste. Tacos mainly include meat, beans, cheese, salsa, lettuce, and guacamole while Shawarma comprises meat, vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce. The individual diner can choose their preferred dish.

Mexican Tacos vs. Lebanese Shawarma: A Global Wrap-Off

Introduction

Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are two popular street foods that are loved for their unique flavor, spices, and taste. Tacos come loaded with an array of fillings while Shawarma is filled with succulent meat and vegetables.

This article aims to compare and contrast the two dishes and highlight why they have become iconic in their respective cuisines.

Origin and History

Mexican Tacos originated in Mexico and have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries. The dish consists of a tortilla filled with ingredients that range from meat to vegetables, cheese, and salsa.

On the other hand, Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that originated in Lebanon. The dish is traditionally made with shaved meat, typically lamb, and vegetables. It is said to have been inspired by a Turkish dish called Doner Kabab.

Taste

Both Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are known for their unique flavors and taste. Tacos come in a variety of flavors depending on the fillings used, but typically they are spicy, tangy, and savory.

In comparison, Shawarma is milder in flavor but has a more complex taste that comes from the blend of spices used to marinate the meat. The meat is usually seasoned with garlic, coriander, cumin, and other spices that give it a distinct and delicious taste.

Preparation

Mexican Tacos are made by filling tortillas with cooked meat, vegetables, cheese, and salsa. The tortillas can be heated, fried or served cold, depending on the type of taco.

On the other hand, Shawarma is usually made by marinating meat, usually chicken or lamb, in a mixture of spices and lemon juice, leaving it to rest for several hours or overnight. The marinated meat is then roasted on a vertical spit and shaved off as it cooks. The meat is then served in a pita bread or rolled up in a lavash, with vegetables such as onions, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Ingredients

The ingredients used to make Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are vastly different. Tacos typically include ingredients such as meat, beans, cheese, salsa, lettuce, and guacamole.

In comparison, Shawarma mainly comprises of meat, vegetables, and a yogurt-based sauce. The meat used in Shawarma is usually chicken or lamb, while the vegetables include onions, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Serving Styles

Mexican Tacos can be served in various styles that include hard or soft shell tacos, tacos al pastor, and more. The dish is served with traditional Mexican accompaniments such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.

Shawarma is commonly served in a pita bread or a lavash roll-up with vegetables, yogurt sauce, and pickles.

Conclusion

While Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are both delicious and unique in their own right, they differ in terms of their origins, taste, ingredients, and serving styles. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual diner to decide which dish they prefer.