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September 13, 2021

West Texas: The Origins of the Discada

Tacos of Texas

By: Mando Rayo

Using the Disco, (a cooking apparatus whose origins are often attributed to the camaraderie between Mexican and Chinese rail workers in the early 20th century), we’ll trace how traditions and cultures intersect, and what effects that cultural fusion has on subsequent generations for years. We’ll explore the connections and history of the Chinese and Mexican roots of their own versions of the disco. Guests include Dr. Guillermina Gina Nunez-Mchiri, UT El Paso (El Paso), and Francisco “Paco” Wong (El Paso).

August 23, 2021

#TacosSaveTexas (Again.)

Tacos of Texas

By: Mando Rayo

As our uncertain world turns, it seems like only one thing stays consistent — the generosity of Texas taqueros. Whether they’re feeding communities in need during natural disasters, or simply working to enforce their operation’s mask mandate during a global pandemic, it’s not often these brave culinary craftsmen and women get the recognition they deserve. In this episode, we’ll chat with some taco do-gooders about their work to lift up their communities and care for society’s most vulnerable. Because like most things, humanitarianism is best when it’s wrapped in a homemade tortilla hecho con amor. Guests include Jessica Villa-Gomez BoomBox Taco (Houston) and TK Tunchez, Founder of Frida Fridays (Austin).

August 9, 2021

Texas Trends: Birria

Tacos of Texas

By: Mando Rayo

Birria de Res has arrived in Texas and it seems nobody can get enough of this red hot taco trend but don’t tell that to the goat birria die-hards. In this episode, we dissect the Birria trend, beef, and goat, from its century-old roots in central Mexico to its newfound popularity as Texas’s latest taco trend. We’ll also learn how Tejanos are adapting the dish for brisket-hungry local palates. Guest include Josh Palacio, El Remedio (San Antonio) and Chris Morrill, Taco Shop El Paso (El Paso).

July 26, 2021

Tacos in the time of COVID

Tacos of Texas

By: Mando Rayo

It’s 2021 and we’re still pivoting through the pandemic. In this episode, we check in on Texas taquerias and chefs to see how they’ve adapted to an uncertain industry and what steps they’re taking to keep their operations above water. We’ll also take a look at how the pandemic affected both eaters’ dining habits and the local hospitality industry as a whole. Guests include Carlos Acosta, Rosarito Austin, and Norma Martinez, Texas Public Radio

July 12, 2021

The Rise of Tex-Mex BBQ

Tacos of Texas

By: Mando Rayo

If you asked any natural born Texan what food they most associate with their home state, chances are you’ll get one of two answers: BBQ and Tacos. In this episode we examine how these two disparate food traditions collided to to create the Lone Star sensation that is Tex-Mex BBQ. We’ll get a comprehensive look at this trend’s history, uncovering what exactly is Tex-Mex BBQ? How far do the style’s roots go? And most importantly, where are the best BBQ Tacos in Texas found? Guests include Ernest Servantes of Burnt Bean Company in Seguin, Joel Garcia of Teddy’s BBQ in Weslaco, and Eliana Gutierrez of Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ In Austin. Check out this Tex-Mex BBQ map we made with all the spots we mention in this episode.

June 25, 2021

Trailer: Tacos of Texas

Tacos of Texas

By: Todd Callahan

Have you ever wondered why Birria tacos are so popular? Or how tacos are saving Texas, even during the pandemic? Or which Texas city has the tastiest tacos? If you find yourself dreaming of tacos, this is the podcast for you.