Tacos are a beloved dish worldwide, known for their incredible versatility. While most people think of traditional fillings like ground beef, lettuce, and cheese, there are endless ways to fill a taco shell. From conventional Mexican fillings to more innovative global options, tacos can cater to all tastes. This article explores a variety of unique taco fillings, from traditional to fusion and beyond, that will inspire you to get creative with your next taco night.
Whether you’re a purist who loves classic flavors or someone eager to explore more adventurous fillings, there’s a taco combination for everyone. Let’s discover what else you can put in a taco shell and elevate your culinary experience. For a start, consider trying Birria tacos, which involve slow-cooked meat in a rich, spicy broth. This type of taco is a delicious and hearty alternative to the usual options.
Traditional Ideas for What to Put in a Taco Shell
Traditional taco fillings provide a great foundation to start your taco-making journey. Here are some of the best classic fillings to try:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: This is a staple for many taco lovers. Seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, ground meat is easy to prepare and versatile. Consider adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
- Shredded Chicken: Perfect for those who want a lighter option. Using rotisserie chicken is a quick way to get delicious, juicy shredded chicken for your tacos. Combine it with tomatoes, onions, and a squeeze of lime for an added burst of flavor.
- Barbacoa Beef: A slow-cooked, tender meat option usually braised with a mix of spices, such as chilies, cumin, garlic, and oregano. Barbacoa is perfect for those who enjoy a deep, rich flavor in their tacos.
- Carnitas: Pulled pork that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, carnitas are traditionally cooked with orange juice, cumin, and garlic. They’re an excellent choice for adding a bit of crunch and juiciness to your tacos.
- Carne Asada: This grilled steak is often marinated with lime, garlic, and cilantro, making it a popular choice for beef lovers. Carne Asada offers a smoky and tangy flavor that pairs well with guacamole and fresh salsa.
- Shrimp or Fish: Seafood tacos, particularly those featuring shrimp or white fish, can be a lighter and fresher alternative. Season the seafood with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper, then grill or fry to perfection. Serve with a zesty slaw or pickled vegetables for added texture.
These classic fillings are just the beginning. If you’re interested in pushing the boundaries, consider infusing your tacos with a global twist.
Global Flavors for What to Put in a Taco Shell
Why limit yourself to Mexican flavors? Tacos can be a vehicle for global cuisine, incorporating unique ingredients from different cultures. Here are some global fusion taco ideas that will make your taste buds dance:
- Korean BBQ (Bulgogi Tacos): Try marinated beef or chicken with soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Top with kimchi, fresh cilantro, and sriracha mayo for a spicy kick.
- Indian-Inspired Tacos (Chicken Tikka, Paneer Tacos): Use spiced chicken or paneer as your base. Add a dollop of cooling raita, some fresh mint, and pickled onions for an Indian twist.
- Jamaican Jerk Chicken Tacos: Spicy and aromatic, these tacos feature jerk-seasoned chicken, often marinated with allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Pair with a pineapple salsa and avocado for a tropical touch.
- Thai Flavored Tacos: Incorporate Thai flavors using peanut chicken, Thai basil, shredded carrots, and crispy fried shallots. Top with a drizzle of peanut sauce or a tangy lime dressing.
- Mediterranean Tacos: Think beyond hummus! Use falafel or spiced lamb, topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. You can also use roasted vegetables, such as eggplant or zucchini, for a plant-based option.
By integrating these global ingredients, you can turn your tacos into a journey of flavors from around the world. And there’s even more room for creativity if you explore unconventional fillings.
Creative Fillings for What to Put in a Taco Shell
If you’re looking to make your tacos stand out, there are countless innovative fillings to consider. Here are some fun and creative ways to fill a taco shell:
- Breakfast Tacos: Start your day with a taco! Fill the shells with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, chorizo, hash browns, or sautéed mushrooms. Add some fresh salsa or avocado slices to bring all the flavors together.
- Dessert Tacos: Don’t limit tacos to savory! Use a cinnamon-sugar-coated shell and fill it with ingredients like sweet cream cheese, fresh berries, or chocolate mousse. Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
- Salad Tacos: Turn your favorite salads into taco form! Consider a Caesar salad taco with grilled chicken, crunchy romaine, and Parmesan. Or a Greek salad taco with olives, feta, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
- Soup Tacos: Create a twist on traditional soups by using their ingredients as taco fillings. Think chili taco bowls or chicken tortilla soup tacos. Add a bit of crunch with tortilla strips or fried onions.
- Seafood Tacos: Go beyond the classic fish taco by incorporating ingredients like grilled octopus, lobster, or crabcakes. Add a squeeze of lemon and fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the seafood flavors.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos: Utilize leftover pulled pork by turning it into a taco filling. Add coleslaw, pickled onions, and a bit of barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy combination.
- Taco Pizza Tacos: Combine the best of both worlds by adding classic pizza ingredients like pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara sauce into a taco shell. You can even top with fresh basil for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
These creative options demonstrate that tacos can be as imaginative as you want them to be. Next, let’s talk about enhancing your taco experience with innovative toppings.
Best Toppings for What to Put in a Taco Shell
The right toppings can elevate a simple taco to new culinary heights. Here are some unique toppings that can enhance the flavor and texture of your tacos:
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled jalapeños, onions, or radishes add a tangy crunch that complements many taco fillings.
- Fresh Fruits: Diced mango, pineapple, pomegranate seeds, or even kiwi can add a refreshing burst of sweetness to contrast with savory fillings.
- Unique Cheeses: Go beyond cheddar with options like Cotija, queso fresco, feta, or even blue cheese. Each cheese brings its unique texture and flavor profile to your taco.
- Exotic Sauces: Consider adding sauces like chipotle mayo, sriracha, tzatziki, or cilantro lime dressing to add complexity and a different flavor dimension to your tacos.
- Crunchy Additions: Fried onions, tortilla strips, crispy chickpeas, or toasted nuts can add a satisfying crunch to your tacos, enhancing both texture and flavor.
- Herbs and Microgreens: Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, basil, or microgreens can add freshness and a pop of color, making your tacos look and taste even better.
If you prefer a bowl over a taco shell, or you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, there are plenty of other options.
What to Put in a Taco Shell for Low-Carb and Bowl Options
A taco bowl or salad is another excellent way to enjoy your favorite taco flavors in a different format. Here are some ideas:
- Taco Bowl: Start with a base of rice or quinoa, then layer with black beans, grilled vegetables, avocado, and your choice of protein. Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole, and finish with a squeeze of lime.
- Taco Salad: Build a taco-inspired salad with iceberg, romaine, or spinach, and top with your favorite taco fillings like grilled chicken, tomatoes, beans, and cheese. Drizzle with a tangy taco salad dressing. For ideas, check out these taco salad dressing ingredients.
- Low-Carb Alternatives: Use lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice as a base instead of traditional tortillas. These options still provide all the flavor without the extra carbs, and they offer a fun twist on the traditional taco format.
Sides and Accompaniments for Tacos
No taco meal is complete without the perfect sides. These accompaniments can elevate your taco experience:
- Rice: Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice is a perfect complement to the flavors in your tacos.
- Beans: Refried beans or black beans add substance and protein to the meal. They can be served on the side or even layered inside the taco.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime is a delicious side dish. For an easy variation, try making a Mexican Street Corn Salad for your next taco night.
- Guacamole, Salsa, and Dips: No taco bar is complete without these essential accompaniments. Whether it’s a simple pico de gallo, a spicy salsa verde, or a rich guacamole, these dips add flavor and freshness. To perfect your guacamole, follow this guacamole recipe.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes can add a healthy and colorful touch to your taco spread.
Drinks to Pair with Tacos
Pairing your tacos with the right drinks can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Alcoholic: Margaritas (classic, strawberry, or mango), Micheladas, and Palomas are popular choices that complement the flavors of tacos. A light, citrusy beer like a Mexican lager also works well.
- Non-alcoholic: For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, try refreshing beverages like agua fresca, Jarritos, or a homemade margarita mocktail.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Taco Shells
If you have leftover taco shells, don’t let them go to waste! There are many creative ways to reuse them. You can crush them into crumbs to use as a topping for casseroles, salads, or soups. They also make a great base for a nacho platter or can be repurposed into tortilla chips. For more ideas, check out these suggestions on what to do with unused taco shells.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What other fillings can you put in a taco shell?
Anything from traditional ingredients like beef and chicken to more creative options like falafel, jerk chicken, or Korean BBQ.
2. Can you use non-Mexican ingredients in tacos?
Absolutely! Tacos are incredibly versatile and can incorporate flavors from any cuisine.
3. How can I make vegan tacos more flavorful?
Use a variety of spices, sauces, and toppings like pickled vegetables, fresh fruits, and unique plant-based proteins to enhance the flavor.
4. What sides go well with tacos?
Mexican rice, beans, elote, fresh guacamole, and a variety of salsas make excellent side dishes for tacos.
5. How do I prevent taco shells from breaking?
Warm your taco shells before filling them to make them more pliable and less likely to crack.
Conclusion
Tacos are a canvas for creativity. Whether you stick to the classics or try something new, they offer endless opportunities to experiment with flavors and textures. The next time you’re planning a taco night, think beyond the usual taco shell and consider some of these unique fillings, toppings, and sides to make your meal memorable.
By combining various global and traditional ingredients, you can create a taco experience that is unique and satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new combinations and discover your own favorite taco creation!