Childhood Taco

Full confession: I grew up on Taco Bell’s crunchy taco. There.

So, when I discovered Calexico’s gringo ground beef taco ($3), I just about lost it. It was my Proustian madeleine. Just so satisfying. You know how powerful those childhood memories (especially taste memories) can be. And, despite all the taco options we have in town, I have yet to find a replacement for my childhood taco craving. I’m not looking for fancy fillings or soft shell tacos; give me a good wholesome hard-shell beef taco anytime.

Calexico’s version has ancho-cumin seasoned ground beef dressed with a splash of Monterey jack cheese, shredded lettuce, crema and pico de gallo in a crispy (key word) shell. While I have not had a Taco Bell taco in at least 20 years, it made such an imprint on me, and I can vouch that the Calexico rendition is a successful gourmet upgrade.