Welcome to Paulina's kitchen! Today we are going to enter the delicious and fascinating world of Arab tacos , a dish that, although it may seem exotic, is a fundamental part of the poblana gastronomy.
And no, we are not talking about the classic tacos to the pastor, although the relationship between the two is closer than you imagine. Today we are going to tell you that story and then we will see the arab taco recipe with all the details and tips so that it does not fail.
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About Arab tacos
Arab tacos are not just one Mexican saucer , they are the result of a cultural crossing that has enriched Mexican cuisine. They are born from Lebanese migration in Puebla and combine the Shawarma tradition with the Mexican seasoning , giving life to a unique delight.
What is the difference between an Arab taco and other types of tacos? What distinguishes Arab tacos is her soft marinade , where cumin, garlic and laurel are mixed in perfect harmony. All this wrapped in a flour tortilla, a true experience of unique flavor.
Either with yogurt sauce or a touch of lemon and coriander, Arab tacos are a culinary journey that fuses the best of two worlds. We are going to explore everything, from its origin to how to make perfect Arab tacos at home.
The history of Arab tacos: a journey from the Middle East to Mexico
tacos are born from Lebanese migration to Mexico at the beginning of the 20th century. Immigrants brought Shawarma, a kind of roasted meat that is a symbol in the Middle East. However, once in Puebla , local conditions and ingredients caused the Lebanese to adapt their traditional recipe a bit. Instead of Lamb, they began using pork and chicken, which were more accessible in Mexico.
- First, lamb meat (which was difficult to get) by pork . In addition, it is filtered, seasoned with spices and cooks in a grill or spin.
- The Mexican touch enters the red sauce that today cannot be missing on the plate. This is completed with the tortillas or Arab bread.
We can say then that Arabic taco is an evolution of Shawarma , with a very Mexican touch. The meat is marked in a mixture of spices and cooks in a spin (yes, like the taco to the pastor).
- Data: At first they were not called Arab tacos but "Eastern tacos", although the premises began to call them Arabs in reference to the tales, who were clearly not Mexican.
And although both share this technique, the main difference is in the type of marinade and, of course, in the tortilla used. While the taco to the shepherd is served in corn tortilla, the Arab taco is accompanied with pita bread or flour tortilla .
The evolution of Arab tacos in Mexican cuisine
The Arab tacos have evolved since that history of its origins in Puebla, over time it has adapted to the different regions of Mexico and local ingredients. Each city in Mexico has added its own touch, such as the use of corn tortillas, local sauces or fresh ingredients, creating unique versions.
Its influence extends even to the creation of other tacos, such as those of Tacos al Pastor . Today, Arab tacos are enjoyed both in traditional taquerías and Gourmet restaurants, highlighting their versatility and place in the rich Mexican cuisine.
Tips and tricks for the best Arab tacos
Achieving perfect Arab tacos requires attention to details and a little patience, I warn you. Let's look at some practical tips for your version to be a success:
- Choice of meat: although pork and chicken are the most used, you could try lamb for a flavor closer to the original Shawarma. Cut the meat into fine strips to make it better and cook evenly.
- Marinada: Leave the meat in the marinade at least 4 hours, ideally all night, (the longer the meat in the marinade passes, the more flavor it will have). Add a touch of lemon or vinegar for extra acidity.
- Cooking: cook the meat in a very hot pan to brown it. If you have a grill or spinning, use it to achieve a more traditional flavor.
- Tortillas and bread: Heats the flour tortillas or the pita bread before serving. If you prefer, have them slightly for a crunchy touch.
- Accompaniment: Add purple onion, coriander, a slice of lemon and yogurt sauce. For a spicy touch, it includes jalapeños in pickle or bullfighting peppers.
Some ideas to accompany Arab tacos
Mexican Arab tacos , with their mixture of flavors from the Middle East and Mexican cuisine, are usually accompanied by several ingredients and sauces that complement their flavor. Here are some traditional accompaniments and options that enhance this delicious preparation:
- Onion and coriander : a classic in many tacos, the combination of chopped onion and fresh coriander adds freshness and a herbal touch that balances the intensity of the spices of the meat.
- Lemon : A splash of fresh lemon juice on the Arabic taco provides acidity and highlights the flavors of the marinade in the flesh.
- Yogurt sauce with dill : inspired by the Greek tzatziki, this sauce made of natural yogurt, dill, garlic and a touch of lemon is a perfect accompaniment for Arab tacos, providing creaminess and freshness.
- Jalapeños or chili peppers : For spicy lovers, string jalapeños or bullfighting peppers are the ideal complement that adds a spicy and acidic touch.
- Flour or pita bread tortilla : although it is not an accompaniment per se, the pita bread or the soft flour tortillas are fundamental to wrapping and enjoy the Arab tacos. Sometimes they serve slightly toasted to give them a crispy texture.
- Varied sauces : From a fresh green sauce to a spicy red sauce, Arab tacos can be accompanied with a variety of sauces, depending on the taste of each person.
Arab tacos are a symbol of cultural fusion that has enriched Mexican cuisine. Whether you prepare them for a family dinner or a meeting with friends, these tacos will be assured. So put on the apron, follow these steps and enjoy each bite.
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Arab Tacos Recipe
Yields: 8 portions
Preparation time: 70 minutes (more marinated time)
Ingredients:
- 800 grams of pork loin or pork leg, cut into strips
- 8 medium flour tortillas (big if you prefer more substantial tacos)
- 2 onions
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons of English sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- 10 fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 onion cut into pieces, garlic powder, English sauce, cumin, bay leaf, parsley leaves and vegetable oil. Licuar until you get a homogeneous mixture.
- Place the pork strips in a large bowl and add the marinade on the meat. Ensuring that the meat is well covered. Add the fillet onion. Cover with film paper and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (ideally 4 hours).
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add marinated meat along with 1 fillet onion. Cooking, occasionally stirring, until the meat is well cooked and golden, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- While the meat is cooked, heat the flour tortillas in a dry pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. Reserve covered with a kitchen cloth to stay soft.
- Place a portion of cooked meat in the center of each tortilla, fold and serve hot. Accompany with lemon, spicy sauce or any garrison.
