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It’s National taco day

October 4 is National Taco Day!
Box of Tacos

By Emily Smith

CNN

(CNN) — Taco ’bout a great day – October 4 is National Taco Day!

Flour or corn tortilla, meat or no meat, with guacamole or without – tacos provide an endless list of flavor combinations. This popular street food has made its way from Mexico to homes and restaurants the world over.

According to Jeffrey Pilcher, history professor and author of Planet Taco: A Global History of Mexican Food, the word “taco” likely originated from silver mines in 18th century Mexico. Miners would use little charges, or explosives, to break up the ore they were mining. They’d wrap pieces of paper around gunpowder for the job. Because of the wrap’s resemblance, the taco took the name. (Gives new meaning to hot sauce!)

Tacos have had a bit of an international facelift since their humble beginnings. The hard taco shell is actually an American invention, as is the taco bowl. Gourmet taquerias are also popping up here, there and everywhere, with lobster and Wagyu beef tacos appearing as regular menu items. Korean barbecue tacos are wildly popular on the West Coast, and instead of pico de gallo, you might find be offered kimchi.

With all the possibilities for delicious tacos, what’s your favorite?

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