Mexican Tacos Guide
Learn about the most popular types of Mexican tacos, the best tortillas to use, classic taco fillings, toppings, salsas and how to build authentic tacos at home.
Quick Facts
A simple guide to Mexican tacos, from tortilla sizes to fillings, toppings and the best products to use.
Main Base
Most authentic Mexican tacos are served on warm corn tortillas.
Best Size
Taquera 12cm and Placera 10cm tortillas are ideal for street-style tacos.
Served Warm
Warm tortillas before filling to improve texture and stop them breaking.
Needs Salsa
Salsa roja, salsa verde and hot sauces bring tacos to life.
Classic Toppings
Onion, coriander, lime, salsa and sometimes pineapple are common toppings.
Mexican Staple
Tacos are one of the most famous and versatile Mexican foods.
Popular Types Of Mexican Tacos
There are many types of tacos in Mexico. These are some of the most popular styles people search for and cook at home.
Tacos al Pastor
Tacos al pastor are one of Mexico’s most famous taco styles. They are usually made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, then served with pineapple, onion, coriander and salsa. Corn tortillas, chilli marinade and a sweet-savoury topping make them instantly recognisable.
Birria Tacos
Birria tacos are made with slow-cooked meat, often beef, cooked with dried chillies and spices. The tortillas are sometimes dipped in the cooking broth before being fried, giving them a rich colour and deep flavour. They are often served with consommé for dipping.
Carne Asada Tacos
Carne asada tacos are made with grilled beef, usually sliced or chopped and served in warm corn tortillas. They are popular in northern Mexico and work well with salsa, onion, coriander, lime and grilled chillies.
Pollo Tacos
Pollo tacos are chicken tacos made with grilled, shredded or marinated chicken. They are easy to prepare and work well with salsa verde, chipotle sauce, guacamole, lime and fresh coriander.
Barbacoa Tacos
Barbacoa tacos are made with slow-cooked meat, usually beef or lamb, cooked until tender and easy to pull apart. They are rich, savoury and often served with onion, coriander, lime and a strong salsa.
Carnitas Tacos
Carnitas tacos are made with slow-cooked pork that is tender inside with crispy edges. They are commonly served with corn tortillas, salsa, onion, coriander and lime for a classic Mexican taco flavour.
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are popular in coastal Mexico, especially Baja-style tacos. They are often made with white fish, cabbage, lime, salsa and a creamy sauce. Corn tortillas give them a fresh and light base.
Shrimp Tacos
Shrimp tacos are another coastal favourite, usually made with cooked prawns, lime, salsa, cabbage and spicy sauce. They are fresh, quick to prepare and perfect with a bright salsa or hot sauce.
Best Tortillas For Tacos
The tortilla changes the whole taco. For authentic Mexican tacos, corn tortillas are the best choice.
Mexican Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas are the traditional base for most Mexican tacos. Taquera 12cm tortillas are perfect for everyday tacos, while Placera 10cm tortillas are ideal for smaller street food-style tacos.
- Taquera 12cm for classic tacos
- Placera 10cm for street food-style tacos
- Tradicional 15cm for larger filled tacos
Mexican Salsas & Hot Sauces
A taco is not complete without salsa. Use salsa roja, salsa verde, chipotle sauce, habanero sauce, salsa macha or classic Mexican hot sauces to add heat, freshness and flavour.
- Salsa verde for chicken, fish and pork tacos
- Salsa roja for beef, birria and carne asada
- Hot sauces for extra heat and flavour
MexGrocer tip: Warm corn tortillas on a hot dry pan for 20 to 30 seconds on each side before serving. Keep them wrapped in a clean towel so they stay soft and flexible while you prepare the taco fillings.
How To Build A Good Taco
A proper taco is simple, balanced and easy to eat. The best tacos usually include a warm tortilla, a main filling, salsa, fresh toppings and lime.
1. Tortilla
Start with a warm corn tortilla, ideally taquera or placera size.
2. Filling
Add meat, fish, chicken, beans, vegetables or mushrooms.
3. Salsa
Choose salsa roja, salsa verde, chipotle salsa or hot sauce.
4. Toppings
Add onion, coriander, cabbage, avocado or pineapple.
5. Lime
A squeeze of lime brightens the flavour and cuts through richness.
6. Serve Hot
Serve tacos fresh while the tortilla and filling are still warm.
Mexican Tacos FAQ
Useful answers for taco nights, Mexican cooking and choosing the right products.
What are authentic Mexican tacos?
Authentic Mexican tacos are usually made with warm corn tortillas, a main filling, salsa, onion, coriander and lime. They are often smaller than Tex-Mex tacos and focus on simple, strong flavours.
What tortillas are best for tacos?
Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for Mexican tacos. Taquera 12cm and Placera 10cm tortillas are especially good for street-style tacos.
What is the most popular Mexican taco?
Tacos al pastor, carne asada tacos, birria tacos and carnitas tacos are some of the most popular and widely searched Mexican taco styles.
What salsa goes best with tacos?
Salsa verde works well with chicken, fish and pork-style tacos, while salsa roja is great for beef, birria and grilled meats. Hot sauces can be added for extra heat.
Can I make tacos at home?
Yes. Warm corn tortillas, prepare your filling, add salsa and finish with onion, coriander and lime. With the right tortillas and sauces, tacos are easy to make at home.
Are corn tortillas gluten free?
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten free because they are made from corn rather than wheat. Always check packaging if you have strict dietary requirements.
Ready To Make Mexican Tacos?
Browse authentic Mexican corn tortillas, salsas and hot sauces to make tacos al pastor, birria tacos, carne asada tacos, fish tacos and more at home.
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