The History of Tex-Mex Cuisine

Tex-Mex cuisine is so much more than just tasty tacos and sizzling fajitas. It’s the delicious result of two rich culinary traditions colliding to create something entirely its own. Found on menus across the United States and beyond, Tex-Mex has earned its place as a fan favorite. From its humble beginnings in Southern Texas to its international fame, Tex-Mex brings bold flavors and a hearty appetite for creativity. Sit back and savor the fascinating history of this iconic cuisine.

Where It All Began

Tex-Mex was born in the borderlands of Texas, where Mexican culinary traditions met American influences. The term itself originated from the Texas Mexican Railway in the late 19th century, which was abbreviated to Tex-Mex. Originally referring to those of Mexican heritage living in Texas, it later became the name for this unique style of food.

Tejano families were among the first to blend traditional Mexican flavors with ingredients and cooking styles available in Texas. For instance, dishes like chili con carne, enchiladas with cheddar cheese, and crispy tacos all reflect this fusion. By the 20th century, restaurants promoting "Tex-Mex" started popping up, solidifying the term as a specific cuisine. 

Did You Know? 

Tex-Mex cuisine got its big break nationally thanks to chili parlors in the early 1900s. These eateries popularized chili con carne, which became one of America's earliest Tex-Mex obsessions!

What Makes Tex-Mex Unique?

Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican food share a culinary bond, but their differences make each one distinctive. Traditional Mexican cuisine is regionally diverse and highlights fresh, local ingredients like tomatillos, mole sauces, and soft corn tortillas. Meanwhile, Tex-Mex takes these foundations and amplifies them through American influence.

Key Differences:

• Ingredients 
  Mexican cuisine uses traditional chile peppers, while Tex-Mex relies on chili powder blends made with cumin, garlic, and paprika. Additionally, Mexican cheese like queso fresco takes a backseat in Tex-Mex to sharp, melty cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Protein Choices 
  Traditional Mexican recipes often feature pork, chicken, or seafood, whereas Tex-Mex embraces ground beef, fajita steak, or even Texan-style BBQ meats.
• Taco Shells 
  Most Mexican tacos use soft corn tortillas, while Tex-Mex introduced crunchy corn shells and flour tortillas. (Yes, crunchy taco lovers, you have Tex-Mex to thank!)

Did You Know? 

The chimichanga, a deep-fried burrito, was allegedly created by accident when someone accidentally dropped a burrito into a fryer. Talk about a delicious mistake!

People Love Tex-Mex

Tex-Mex's appeal goes beyond bold flavors. Its generous portions, rich seasonings, and customization options make it incredibly versatile. From the streets of Austin to big cities in Europe, Tex-Mex has become a global comfort food, synonymous with fun, flavor, and feasting.

The cuisine's rise in popularity is also due to the introduction of Tex-Mex chains and the widespread availability of its key ingredients, like tortillas, beans, and chili powder, in grocery stores. Today, Tex-Mex embraces global trends, too, incorporating everything from plant-based proteins to new sauces and toppings, ensuring its appeal keeps growing.

Did You Know? 

Nachos were invented in the 1940s when Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya whipped up a snack using fried tortillas, melted cheese, and jalapeños for some hungry customers. This simple Tex-Mex combo is now a global crowd-pleaser.

Why We Love Tex-Mex

What makes Tex-Mex so beloved? It’s the perfect mix of hearty, comforting, and customizable. Whether you’re topping a crunchy taco with fresh jalapeños or smothering a plate of enchiladas with queso, Tex-Mex allows you to make it your own. It’s family-friendly, fun, and full of flavor.

The Menu Staples:

• Tacos (soft or crunchy, loaded your way)
• Fajitas (served sizzling with all the fixings) 
• Burritos and Chimichangas (because sometimes you want your burrito fried!) 
• Quesadillas and Nachos (cheesy, melty perfection) 
• Enchiladas (smothered in sauce and cheese, of course) 

Did You Know? 

Tex-Mex food isn’t just about taste. It’s all about the vibe! A Tex-Mex meal is often served with lively atmosphere, bright colors, and a side of Margaritas.

Are You Craving Tex-Mex Made Right?

After this trip through the mouthwatering history of Tex-Mex, are you hungry yet? If those bold flavors and hefty serving sizes are calling your name, we’ve got just the spot for you. It’s time to grab your family, your friends, or just your appetite and head to Twisted Taco! Trust us, one bite of our 21 unique taco varieties, Texas-sized portions, and handcrafted flavors, and you’ll see why we do Tex-Mex the right way.

Come discover the twisted side of Tex-Mex. We’ll keep the queso warm for you 🌮.