Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are two of the most famous street foods in the world. Tacos originated in central Mexico in the 18th century and often contain bold and spicy ingredients. Shawarma, which originated in the Middle East, is made of thin strips of marinated meat cooked on a spit and served in a pita bread with various toppings. Both foods boast unique flavours and textures and can be relatively healthy when prepared correctly. In the debate over which meal “wraps it better,” however, Lebanese Shawarma wins, thanks to its crispy meat and soft, chewy pita bread.
Mexican Tacos vs. Lebanese Shawarma: Who Wraps It Better?
Introduction
Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are two of the most popular street foods in the world. Both meals are known for their mouth-watering flavors, incredible textures, and convenient wrapping. Despite their similarities, there are a few differences between these two iconic dishes. This article will compare and contrast Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma to determine which meal wraps it better.
Origin and History
Mexican Tacos have a rich and complex history. The dish is said to have originated in central Mexico and was first documented in the 18th century. Traditional Tacos were made with filling such as beef, pork, and chicken, and were served in a soft corn tortilla. Today, there are countless variations of the classic Taco recipe, including vegetarian and seafood options.
Lebanese Shawarma is a popular dish that originated in the Middle East. The meal is made of thinly sliced meat that is marinated for hours before being cooked on a spit. The meat is shaved off the spit and wrapped in a pita bread alongside a variety of toppings such as pickles, lettuce, and garlic sauce. Shawarma can be made with chicken, beef, or lamb, and has become a popular street food around the world.
Taste and Flavor
Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are known for their explosive flavors and unique tastes. Mexican Tacos are often made with bold and spicy ingredients such as chili peppers, cumin, and cilantro. Traditional Tacos typically contain meat that has been grilled or slow-cooked to perfection. Tacos are often served with a variety of toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, which add an extra flavor boost to the meal.
Lebanese Shawarma, on the other hand, has a predominantly savory taste. The meat is cooked with a unique blend of herbs and spices, including cumin, paprika, and sumac. The pita bread adds an extra dimension to the meal, providing a slightly sweet and doughy flavor that perfectly complements the savory meat inside. Shawarma is often served with pickled vegetables, garlic sauce, and tahini, which add an extra dimension of flavor to the already delicious meal.
Texture
Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma have distinct textures that make them unique. Tacos are often served in a soft corn tortilla that provides a significant crunch to the meal. The texture of the filling also plays an essential role in the overall texture of the taco. For instance, if the meat is overcooked, it can make the taco chewy and unpleasant to eat.
Lebanese Shawarma, on the other hand, has a unique texture that comes from the meat’s preparation. The meat is thinly sliced and then roasted on a spit, which gives it a crispy texture on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. The pita bread adds an extra layer of texture to the meal, providing a soft and slightly chewy texture.
Nutrition
Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are both considered to be relatively healthy street foods. Tacos can be made with lean protein such as chicken or fish, and the toppings often include fresh vegetables and herbs. However, Tacos can become unhealthy quickly when toppings such as cheese and sour cream are added in high amounts.
Lebanese Shawarma is also relatively healthy. The meat used for Shawarma is often lean, and the toppings include vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. However, Shawarma can also become unhealthy quickly when high-fat sauces such as mayonnaise or fatty meats such as lamb are used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mexican Tacos and Lebanese Shawarma are incredible street foods that have unique flavors and textures. Both meals are healthy when prepared correctly and can be enjoyed by people with different dietary requirements. However, when it comes to wrapping it better, the winner has to be Lebanese Shawarma. The crispy texture of the meat, combined with the soft and chewiness of the pita bread, creates an irresistible combination. While Tacos have their own unique qualities, it is hard to beat the deliciousness of a well-made Shawarma.