| Keyword |
Description |
| Envenenado |
Means “poisoned,” yet refers to a taco full of rich, savory fillings and tradition—not danger |
| Sudado |
Means “sweaty,” describing a taco that’s moist and steamed to perfection, thanks to a special cooking method |
| Basura |
Means “garbage”; here, it describes a taco packed with a delicious mix of many ingredients, not actual waste |
When someone says “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” it’s easy to forget how much names can influence our expectations. Tacos in Mexico are a perfect example: many have names that sound off-putting or even gross, but their taste tells a very different story. The article explores how much names really matter—or don’t—by showcasing tacos that might make you think twice before tasting but ultimately surprise you with incredible flavors.
The taco envenenado (“poisoned taco”) from Zacatecas didn’t get its name from anything dangerous. The story goes that a taquero named Don Lauro put up a humorous sign inviting people to try his “poisoned tacos.” Of course, there was never any actual poison; instead, this taco involves large corn tortillas filled with beans, chorizo, potatoes, and chilies, all fried in lard for a crisp, golden result. What started as a joke turned into a local legend, cherished for generations.
Less ominous but still unusual, the taco sudado (“sweaty taco”) draws its name from the moisture that forms when tortillas dipped in hot oil are filled and kept warm in baskets. There’s no sweat involved, just a tradition that began in Mexico’s mining towns, where quick, filling meals were in high demand. The combination of refried beans, potatoes, and sometimes meat inside these steamed bundles is pure comfort food.
Then there’s the taco basura (“garbage taco”), which, you guessed it, contains not trash but a huge variety of meats and veggies—think bacon, turkey, potatoes, eggs, and more. The “garbage” label comes from the mountain of leftovers used to create it. People love it for the sheer abundance of flavors all in one bite. Similar tacos with strange names exist elsewhere—like the taco de transmisión (“transmission taco”) and taco de nada (“nothing taco”). No matter the name, these dishes remind us that judging solely by labels means missing out on amazing experiences.
Time to discuss
- Why do you think people are willing to try foods with unappealing names?
- How do these taco stories challenge your assumptions about food culture?
- Would a different name make you more likely to try or avoid one of these tacos? Why?
