Frito pie vs. walking taco: battle of the crunch and seasoning

In the vibrant culinary landscape of Tex-Mex cuisine, two beloved street foods stand out: the iconic Frito Pie and the irresistible Walking Taco. Both dishes tantalize taste buds with their unique blend of flavors and textures, but which one truly deserves the crown? Join us as we delve into the delectable world of Frito Pie vs Walking Taco, exploring their origins, ingredients, preparation methods, and ultimate taste experience.

Origins and History

Frito Pie, a culinary creation born in the 1960s, traces its roots to the American Southwest. Its humble beginnings can be attributed to the ingenious idea of using Fritos corn chips as a vessel for chili, cheese, and other toppings. The Walking Taco, on the other hand, emerged later in the 1980s as a more portable version of its predecessor. It ingeniously repurposed a Doritos bag as a makeshift taco shell, filled with ground beef, cheese, and toppings.

Ingredients and Preparation

Frito Pie:

• Fritos corn chips
• Chili (beef, pork, or turkey)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Toppings (onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream)

Walking Taco:

• Doritos bag
• Ground beef
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Toppings (lettuce, tomatoes, onions, salsa)

The preparation of both dishes is straightforward. Frito Pie is assembled by layering Fritos in a bowl, topping them with chili, cheese, and any desired toppings. The Walking Taco involves emptying the Doritos bag into a cup or bowl, adding ground beef, cheese, and toppings, and then shaking vigorously to combine.

Taste Experience

Frito Pie boasts a satisfying crunch from the Fritos, a hearty and flavorful chili base, and a generous helping of melted cheese. The toppings add a layer of freshness and zest, creating a balanced and indulgent taste experience.

The Walking Taco, on the other hand, offers a unique combination of textures. The crunchy Doritos provide a crispy exterior, while the ground beef and cheese create a soft and savory interior. The toppings add a burst of flavors, resulting in a tantalizing and portable treat.

Portability and Convenience

The Walking Taco reigns supreme in terms of portability. Its ingenious design allows you to enjoy a complete taco experience on the go, making it a popular choice for festivals, sporting events, and road trips. Frito Pie, on the other hand, is typically served in a bowl, making it less convenient for eating while mobile.

Variations and Innovations

Both Frito Pie and Walking Taco have inspired countless variations and innovations over the years. Creative chefs have experimented with different types of chips, proteins, cheeses, and toppings, resulting in a wide array of flavor profiles. Some notable variations include:

• Frito Pie with pulled pork or chicken
• Walking Taco with buffalo chicken or vegetarian chili
• Frito Pie with Fritos Scoops or Doritos 3D Crunch
• Walking Taco with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos or Takis

The Ultimate Verdict

The great debate of Frito Pie vs Walking Taco is a matter of personal preference. Both dishes offer unique and satisfying experiences, each appealing to different tastes and occasions.

If you crave a hearty and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, Frito Pie is an excellent choice. Its combination of flavors and textures will leave you feeling full and content.

However, if you’re looking for a portable and convenient snack that’s perfect for on-the-go enjoyment, the Walking Taco is your go-to option. Its crunchy exterior and flavorful interior will keep you energized and satisfied.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which dish reigns supreme is to try both and let your taste buds be the judge.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What is the difference between Frito Pie and Walking Taco?

• Frito Pie is served in a bowl with Fritos corn chips, while Walking Taco is served in a Doritos bag with ground beef.

2. Which dish is more portable?

• The Walking Taco is more portable due to its easy-to-hold Doritos bag.

3. Can I make Frito Pie or Walking Taco vegetarian?

• Yes, you can use vegetarian chili and toppings to create a vegetarian version of either dish.

4. What are some popular toppings for Frito Pie and Walking Taco?

• Common toppings include onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, and salsa.

5. Can I use other types of chips besides Fritos or Doritos?

• Yes, you can experiment with different types of chips, such as tortilla chips, potato chips, or even pretzel chips.