What Is a Walking Taco?
Last updated on Oct 4, 2023Val GoodrichA walking taco is a single-serving bag of tortilla chips filled with taco toppings like ground beef, shredded cheese, tomatoes, and sour cream. The chip bag makes it easy to eat this taco while on the move, making the “walking taco” a true-to-its-name snack. It’s a crowd-pleasing option to add to your concession stand’s menu or if you’re catering a relaxed event.
How to Make Walking Tacos
Watch our video to learn how to make walking tacos:
Best Chips for a Walking Taco
The best chips for a walking taco are corn chips. Purchase single-serving bags from one of the following corn chip brands:
- Doritos
- Fritos
- Mission
- Tostitos
- Xochitl
Walking Taco Ingredients
Here are a few walking taco ingredient ideas to fill your bags:
- Ground meat
- Bell peppers
- Tomatoes
- Lettuce
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
- Jalapenos
- Guacamole
Walking Taco Assembly
Assembling a walking taco is pretty straightforward, but there are a couple of tips to keep in mind. Follow these steps to build a walking taco:
- Select a single-serving corn chip bag
- While the bag is still sealed shut, crush up the chips so they're easier to eat
- Open the bag and add about 1/3 cup of ground meat on top of the chips
- Sprinkle in any other desired toppings
- Serve with a fork or spoon, instruct the customer to mix everything together, and enjoy!
Walking Taco Ideas
Want to try something else? Get creative with one of these walking taco variations instead, including vegan walking tacos and vegetarian walking tacos:
- Carnitas - Pork, diced onions, salsa, and cilantro
- Tinga de Pollo - Shredded chicken in tomato chipotle sauce, cotija, cilantro, and red onion
- Black Bean - Spicy black beans, pickled onions, mango salsa, green cabbage, and avocado
- Al Pastor - Pork in adobo rub, grilled pineapple, red onions, and salsa verde
- Butternut Squash - Roasted butternut squash, roasted poblanos, shallots, green cabbage, and avocado
- Jackfruit - Shredded jackfruit cooked in seasoned sauce, corn, radishes, avocado, and green cabbage
Where to Serve Walking Tacos
As one of the most convenient and casual snacks, walking tacos are ideal to serve in fun and relaxed environments. If you run one or more of the below food service businesses or are simply just hosting a gathering, then consider adding walking tacos to your menu.
- Concession stands
- Carnivals
- Public pools
- Sporting events
- Block parties
- Street festivals
- Food halls
Serving walking tacos to your customers is a fast, easy, and profitable business move. Pair your walking tacos with high-profit cocktails like coronaritas, mezcal margaritas, and mangonadas to extend your offerings.
Related Resources
How to Start A Concession Stand
Concession businesses have lower startup costs than both restaurants and food trucks, making them a great way for entrepreneurs to get their start in the foodservice industry. They’re also an ideal business model for operators who specialize in one niche menu item. While your concession stand’s location will determine its ongoing success, starting a concession stand requires a unique menu, corresponding equipment, and a thorough business plan. Read on to learn how to start a concession business and determine if it’s the right off premise dining model for your concept. Shop All Concession Supplies Click any of the tips below to learn about starting a concession stand: Develop A Concession Stand Concept Write a Concession Stand Business Plan Get Funding for Your Concession Stand Purchase a Concession Stand Get the Required Licenses and Permits Choose Food Storage and Preparation Equipment Select Your Concession Stand Supplies Hire a Concession Stand Staff Market Your Concession Stand What Is a Concession Stand? A concession stand, sometimes referred to as a snack bar, is an area where guests can purchase food, drinks, and snacks. They can often be found inside movie theaters, amusement parks, and stadiums. While some establishments own and operate their own concession stands, others contract with third parties. Common foods sold at concession stands include regional hot dogs , popcorn, and pretzels. How Much Does a Concession Stand Cost? The cost of acquiring a concession stand varies by the size of the unit and whether you’re purchasing a used cart or having one built from scratch. A new, medium-sized concession stand will cost between $11,000 and $21,000 to build. A new stand won’t contain any equipment, which increases your startup costs. You can purchase a used and equipped concession stand for between $6,000 and $45,000. The price range for used concession stands is so wide because it reflects both minimalistic, older stands and lightly used stands stocked with premium equipment. How to Start a Concession Business From writing a solid business plan to marketing your concession stand, we walk you through each step of starting your concession business. For additional financial planning advice, check out our guide to profit and loss statements complete with an interactive spreadsheet. 1. Develop A Concession Stand Concept Your concession stand concept and menu determine what size cart you need, how much startup money you’ll require, and the ideal location for your concession stand. Concession stand menus can offer everything from pre-made snacks to creative and gourmet cuisine. The needs of a simple prepared foods stand differ from a concession stand that sells fresh, gourmet waffles. 2. Write a Concession Stand Business Plan Once you have a general idea of what kind of concession stand you want to operate, you need to develop a business plan. Your business plan acts as the blueprint for your concession stand’s growth trajectory and helps you make the right investments without wasting time or money. A solid business plan is also what you’ll use to gain outside funding for your business venture. It gives both you and your investors a clearly defined look at your concession stand’s financial status, concept, target audience, and business structure. We have a comprehensive guide on how to write a business plan that walks you through each step of the process. 3. Get Funding for Your Concession Stand With your business plan in place, you’ll know how much money you need to start your concession stand. While you may launch a small, simple concession stand on your own, a larger concession business with a complex menu may require outside financing. We provide a list of potential places where you can seek funding below: Investors: You can use your business plan to pitch your concession stand concept to investors. Loans: There are small business loans, equipment loans, and leasing opportunities, and traditional bank loans available to business entrepreneurs. Crowdfunding: “Crowdfunding” allows a large group of people to invest small amounts of money into a business. It typically takes place on websites like GoFundMe, where you can set your concession stand funding goals, attract investors, and update them on your progress. 4. Purchase a Concession Stand With your business plan and funding in place, you can purchase a concession stand that meets your scale and budget. You’ll need to consider whether you want a stationary, short range, or trailer concession stand. This will affect what kind of stand you purchase, where it’s located, and even what laws apply to it. If you have a great location where you can reliably set up shop, like a stadium, then an inexpensive stationary concession stand is perfect for you. However, if you want to vend at multiple street corners spanning a few blocks, you’ll need a short-range cart. To cover more distance and change locations frequently, invest in a concession trailer or consider whether a food truck better suits your needs. Types of Concession Stands There are three different types of concession stands: stationary concession stands, mobile concession stands, and concession trailers. Each concession business model reaps the benefits of their target audience’s spending patterns. Stationary concession stands conduct their business in short bursts of high output. Short range carts experience slower and steadier sales. Trailer concession stands can serve events and a steady stream of returning customers. However, while the trailer model combines the benefits of stationary stands and short-range carts, they are more expensive to purchase and operate. Stationary Concession Stands: Stationary concession stands are small, have fixed locations, and don’t provide space for a lot of equipment or ingredient storage. They typically sell one prepared menu item or pre-made snacks. Mobile Concession Stands: Designed for short-range use, mobile concession stands often have a home location where vendors prepare their food before adding it to the cart, which typically contains a holding unit. Concession Trailers: Concession trailers offer long-range mobility, are powered via gas or generators, and have space to create a compact kitchen complete with countertop warming equipment and undercounter storage. Back to Top 5. Get the Required Licenses and Permits Like any business, you need licenses and permits to operate a concession stand. We provide a few of the common licenses and permits, but please check with your local ordinances to make sure you align with their stipulations. Food Manager Certification Food Vendor License Food Handling Certificate Sales and Use Tax Permit Employer Identification Number If you operate a mobile concession stand, check with your local drivers’ license department to see if you need a commercial license for your concession stand. 6. Choose Food Storage and Preparation Equipment Your menu determines what concession equipment you require. To power the equipment, it’s best to use a generator or a container of propane to keep everything operational throughout the day. It’s also important to note that some equipment — particularly gas-powered equipment — requires special hookups like gas connector hoses. To prevent overcrowding and heating, we suggest using undercounter or half height appliances. Some concession stands cook their menu off-site at a commissary kitchen and equip their carts with a few warmers. However, you may run out of food fast, which could hurt your reputation and customer retention. You can address this challenge by hiring additional staff to replenish and transport goods. Concession Stand Equipment The perfect concession equipment list balances tools for storing pre-cooked food at food safe temperatures and appliances for preparing raw food. As you form your list, evaluate your space and make sure you don’t overfill it. Having spare room maintains a safe working environment for employees enclosed in the small, hot space. While your exact equipment needs are defined by your menu, here are the most common concession business appliances: Food Holding & Warming Equipment: Keep your fare ready-to-serve with food holding and warming equipment. Hot Dog/Sausage Equipment: Invest in a roller grill, steamer, and merchandiser to cook, preserve, and sell sausages and hot dogs. Griddles: Cook burgers and hot sandwiches on a griddle. Ventless Fryers: Ventless fryers are perfect for compact concession stands. Remember to save space for spare stocks of oil. Popcorn Machines: Popcorn is an easy, inexpensive, and profitable concession stand food item. Cotton Candy Machines: You can set up a countertop cotton candy machine in your concession stand or use a cotton candy cart to conduct your business. 7. Select Your Concession Stand Supplies The equipment you choose will determine what kitchen tools and serving products you need. Tongs and turners are great all-purpose tools, but some appliances may require fryer baskets, ladles, or cutlery. You’ll also need cups, bowls, trays, and other common disposables to serve your customers. While the exact supplies may vary, almost every concession stand requires these items: Aprons Coin Dispensers Cash Registers Signs Snacks and Drinks Disposable Concession Supplies Cooking Equipment Serving Utensils 8. Hire a Concession Stand Staff Once your concession stand is established and you have acquired the necessary permits, you’ll need to hire a staff. The number of employees you’ll need to hire depends on your expected output and how much you offer on your menu. For example, a concession stand that offers a limited menu in a small venue may not require many employees to function, while stands that serve a large number of people and offer several different foods can require a larger staff. How Much Do Concession Stand Workers Make? A concession stand worker, or concession attendant, typically makes somewhere between $15,000 and $35,000 per year. This can vary depending on several factors including how often they work and where the stand is located. It’s important to note that concession stand workers are typically paid hourly, with wages ranging from as low as minimum wage to as high as $18/hour. 9. Market Your Concession Stand Thanks to social media, you can begin marketing your concession business before you open. Post pictures of your menu items as you practice your recipes. Use Instagram polls to engage with your target audience and find out what flavors would convert them into customers. For example, if you’re a gourmet popcorn concession business, ask your followers whether they’d rather try a Bloody Mary or Nashville hot chicken inspired popcorn mix. Back to Top Compact, accessible, and convenient, a concession stand is a unique foodservice model that has the potential to turn major profits. Concession stands are most successful in areas with sports stadiums and regular events. Save our guide as a reference to help you start your concession business.
Best Nacho Toppings
Gooey cheese paired with crunchy chips, what's not to love? From proteins to veggies, adding nacho toppings transforms this simple snack into a hearty entree. While you can layer virtually anything onto nachos, like Asian sauces and kimchi for a fusion dish, reinventing the wheel isn't necessary to turn a profit. We've rounded up the top 10 most popular nacho toppings so you can enhance your menu with time-tested favorites you likely already have stocked. Shop All Nacho Toppings Learn about the most popular nacho toppings: 1. Cheese 2. Meat 3. Beans 4. Salsa 5. Chili Sauce 6. Peppers 7. Avocado/Guacamole 8. Olives 9. Onions 10. Sour Cream 1. Cheese While all the other toppings listed are great enhancements, nachos wouldn't be nachos without a thick layer of different types of cheese. Cheese is the foundation that holds all the other ingredients together, creating a gooey, flavorful delight with every bite. Thanks to its easy-to-dispense format and affordability, nacho cheese sauce is a great option for high-volume concession stands. It offers a fresh cheddar cheese flavor with a smooth, velvety consistency, paired with a visually appealing yellow-orange color that adds to the overall presentation of the nachos. Create gourmet nachos for your happy hour special using Mexican cheeses like queso Oaxaca, queso Chihuahua, and queso crema to add a rich and authentic flavor profile. While nachos are technically a Tex-Mex dish, adding authentic Mexican cheeses can appeal to customers who appreciate traditional Hispanic cuisine. If you want to lean into the Tex instead of the Mex, cheddar cheese is a beloved choice for nachos. Younger cheddar melts more easily, but sharp cheddars provide a nice bite, so consider using a blend of both. Monterey or Colby Jack cheeses add a gooey, melty quality and create an epic cheese pull. Nacho Cheese Tasting Notes: The best nacho cheeses are creamy, tangy, and savory with hints of spice and acidity Nacho Cheese Texture: Ranges from creamy and saucy to chewy and stringy Most Popular Types of Cheese for Nachos: Nacho cheese sauce, queso Oaxaca, queso Chihuahua, queso crema, cheddar, Monterey jack, Colby jack 2. Meat Meat adds taste, texture, and substance to your nachos. Seasoned ground beef is a hearty and flavorful topping that pairs well with melted cheese and crunchy tortilla chips, making it a popular choice for nachos. For a lean and versatile protein choice, chicken can be grilled, shredded, or seasoned and added to nachos. The rich flavor and tender texture of steak add a gourmet touch to nachos, perfect for a game day special. For a touch of sweetness and smokiness, choose Memphis-style pulled pork. The tender, slow-cooked meat pairs perfectly with melted cheese and tangy salsa for a mouthwatering combination. Vegan meat alternatives like seitan, tempeh, and ground beef substitutes offer a tasty and protein-rich alternative to traditional meat toppings. These options can be seasoned and cooked to mimic the texture and flavor of meat, providing a satisfying nacho experience for vegan diners. Nacho Meat Tasting Notes: Varies on the protein chosen and preparation method Nacho Meat Texture: Whichever meat you choose, prepare it so it is on the softer side to contrast the crunchy chips Most Popular Types of Meat for Nachos: Seasoned ground beef, chicken, pulled pork, steak, vegan meat substitutes 3. Beans Beans are a versatile topping that can add depth and flavor to nachos. Among the various types of beans used for nachos, black beans stand out as the most popular choice. Their rich, earthy flavor and firm texture make them a perfect complement to the crunchy tortilla chips and gooey, melted cheese. For those looking to indulge, refried beans are a decadent choice for topping nachos. These beans are cooked until soft, sauteed in lard or oil, and then mashed to create a creamy and smooth consistency. Pinto beans are another popular option for nacho toppings because their creamy texture and slightly nutty flavor enhance the overall taste of the dish. Pinto beans are often seasoned with spices such as cumin and chili powder to add a kick of flavor to the nachos. While less common, red beans add a satisfying chewiness and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the other toppings on nachos perfectly. Nacho Beans Tasting Notes: Rich, earthy, nutty, savory Nacho Beans Texture: Creamy, al dente Most Popular Types of Beans for Nachos: Black beans, pinto beans, refried beans, red beans 4. Salsa Salsa is a dynamic and popular condiment that can elevate the flavor profile of nachos. When choosing the best salsa for nachos, consider the texture, flavor, and heat level that will complement the other toppings. Pico de gallo, also known as fresh salsa, is the most versatile option for nachos. Made with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice, pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness and acidity that can balance the melted cheese's richness without overpowering the other toppings. Similar to pico de gallo, salsa roja is made with ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro. What sets salsa roja apart from pico de gallo is it preserves the ripe tomato juice, making it more of a condiment than a topping, whereas pico de gallo contains very little liquid. Salsa tatemada, made by charring tomatoes, onions, and chilies on a hot skillet or grill, imparts a rich, roasted taste to nachos and complements the crispy texture of the chips. Salsa verde, or green salsa, offers a tangy and slightly spicy flavor profile that pairs well with nachos. Made with tomatillos, green chilies, onions, and cilantro, salsa verde has a bright green color and a refreshing taste that can add a zesty kick to your nacho toppings. Nacho Salsa Tasting Notes: Ranges from fresh and acidic to spicy and charred, depending on the variety Nacho Salsa Texture: Ranges from toothsome to smooth depending on the variety and preparation method Most Popular Types of Salsa for Nachos: Pico de gallo, salsa roja, salsa tatemada, salsa verde 5. Chili Sauce Chili sauce is a quick and easy option for enhancing the flavor profile of your nachos. Because it is so hearty and serves as a sauce and a textured topping, you won't need to layer in a bunch of other add-ons. Simply heat the chili sauce and drizzle it over your nachos for a delicious and satisfying meal or snack. The rich and savory flavor of chili sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of nacho chips, creating a mouthwatering combination. Many choose to mix nacho cheese sauce with their chili for extra indulgence. Concession stands can maximize their purchase and use the chili sauce as a topping for nachos and as a hot dog topping for chili dogs. Whether you choose chili with beans for added texture and heartiness or a bean-free chili for a smoother consistency, this topping provides a savory kick to your nacho dish. When choosing chili sauce as a nacho topping, consider offering chili with and without beans to cater to different preferences. This allows customers to customize their nachos according to their taste preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience. Nacho Chili Sauce Tasting Notes: Spicy, smoky, tangy Nacho Chili Sauce Texture: Ranges from thick and chunky to smooth and pourable Most Popular Types of Chili for Nachos: Chili with beans, chili without beans 6. Peppers Peppers are a popular choice for nachos, adding bursts of flavor and heat to this classic dish. There are a variety of pepper options to suit different taste preferences. Pickled jalapenos are a staple topping for nachos, providing a tangy and spicy kick that complements the other ingredients. These peppers are typically sliced or diced and can be added directly to the nachos or served on the side for customizable heat levels. Fresh jalapenos offer a crisp and vibrant flavor to nachos. These peppers can be sliced, diced, or roasted before being added to the nachos, but make sure you protect staff against jalapeno hands. Sauteed sweet peppers are a delicious alternative for those who prefer a milder option. These peppers add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to nachos, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that pairs well with other toppings. Serrano peppers, known for their bright and spicy flavor, can be sliced thinly and scattered over the nachos for a burst of heat, catering to spice lovers. Banana peppers offer a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory elements of nachos. These peppers can be sliced or diced and added to nachos for a zesty twist that adds depth to the dish. Nacho Pepper Tasting Notes: Ranging from sweet and tangy to bright and fiery Nacho Pepper Texture: Ranging from crisp and crunchy to tender and soft depending on their preparation Most Popular Types of Peppers for Nachos: Pickled jalapenos, fresh jalapenos, sauteed sweet peppers, serrano peppers, banana peppers 7. Avocado/Guacamole Avocado is a beloved fruit that adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to nachos. Fresh avocado slices are a popular choice for topping nachos, providing a fresh and healthy option for customers looking to enjoy a lighter snack. Avocado is packed with nutrients, appealing to vegan customers looking to increase the satiety of nachos without relying on meat products. When incorporating avocado into your nacho toppings, consider offering it as a side or a customizable add-on to upsell your menu. Guacamole, a classic Mexican dip made from mashed avocados, is another popular choice for nacho toppings. Guacamole adds zesty flavor and a smooth consistency to nachos, making it a favorite among customers. It can be customized with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to create a unique and tasty topping for nachos. For busy commercial kitchens, buying prepared guacamole allows you to quickly and easily add this popular topping to your nacho dishes without extensive preparation. Nacho Avocado/Guacamole Tasting Notes: Avocado slices are buttery, mild, and creamy; guacamole is zesty Nacho Avocado/Guacamole Texture: Smooth, buttery Most Popular Types of Avocado/Guacamole for Nachos: Fresh avocado slices or cubes, premade guacamole, house-made guacamole 8. Olives Olives add a textural twist and briny flavor to nachos. Among the various types of olives available, black olives are the most popular choice for nacho toppings. Their rich flavor, soft texture, and juiciness contrast and complement the other ingredients well. While black olives may be the most popular, other varieties offer a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize your nachos to suit your customers' preferences. For a creative twist on traditional nachos, consider pairing kalamata olives with feta cheese to create a Greek-inspired nacho dish. The bold and tangy flavor of kalamata olives pairs beautifully with creamy, salty feta cheese, adding a Mediterranean flair to your nachos. To add a Spanish touch to your nachos, pair sliced green Spanish olives with Manchego cheese. The briny and slightly bitter flavor of green Spanish olives complements the nutty and buttery taste of Manchego cheese, creating a delicious combination reminiscent of a traditional Spanish tapas. Nacho Olives Tasting Notes: Ranges from tangy and slightly bitter to earthy and mild depending on the variety; all are briny Nacho Olives Texture: Juicy, firm, toothsome Most Popular Types of Nacho Olives: Black, green, Kalamata 9. Onions Onion varieties add depth and flavor to your nachos. Grilled onions bring a delicious smokiness and sweetness to your nachos. Cooking onions on the grill caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a rich and savory flavor that can complement your nacho dish's cheesy and spicy elements. Compared to other types of onion, white onions have a mild flavor when raw, so they can provide a satisfying crunch without overpowering the other ingredients. Pickled onions are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices, which helps to mellow their sharpness and infuse them with a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the other ingredients in your nachos. For a fresh and mild onion flavor, slice green onions and sprinkle them over nachos. Also known as scallions, green onions have a milder taste than their fully mature counterparts, making them a great option for those who prefer a more subtle onion flavor on their nachos. Nacho Onions Tasting Notes: Ranges from zesty and sweet to grassy and pungent, depending on the variety Nacho Onions Texture: Ranges from crunchy to tender depending on the variety and preparation method Most Popular Types of Onions for Nachos: Pickled onions, white onions, green onions, grilled onions 10. Sour Cream Sour cream adds a rich element to balance out the spiciness of other toppings such as jalapenos or hot sauce. Its velvety consistency also helps bind the different layers of nachos together, creating a cohesive and delicious dish. Made from fermented cream, sour cream is a staple in many commercial kitchens due to its rich texture and ability to complement a variety of flavors, so operators likely already have it on hand. For a more authentic option with a milder flavor and thinner consistency, consider using Mexican crema instead of traditional sour cream. This alternative is less sour and offers a smoother texture that complements nachos well. Additionally, offering vegan sour cream as a topping option can accommodate patrons with dietary preferences or restrictions, ensuring that all customers can enjoy your nachos. Nacho Sour Cream Tasting Notes: Creamy, tangy, slightly acidic, sour Nacho Sour Cream Texture: Thick cream, smooth, silky Most Popular Types of Sour Cream for Nachos: Cultured sour cream, Mexican crema, vegan sour cream Back to Top Nacho Toppings Brands Now that you know the most commonly used nacho toppings, you must consider ingredient sourcing. Whether you are looking to introduce nachos to your menu or are seeking better quality than previous brands you have used, we compiled a list of the top nacho-topping brands that operators should be aware of. Each brand has received high ratings for its products. Carnival King When it comes to serving up delicious nachos at your concession stand, Carnival King is a brand that delivers quality products at an affordable price. Known for their flavorful cheese sauces, Carnival King is a go-to choice for businesses looking to offer a crowd-pleasing snack option. With a rich and creamy texture, these sauces are perfect for drizzling over crispy tortilla chips and topping with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer classic cheddar or spicy jalapeno, Carnival King offers a variety of cheese sauce options to suit every taste. Nacho Toppings They Offer: Cheddar cheese sauce, Jalapeno cheese sauce Average Price Point: 29 cents per ounce See what our customers are saying about Carnival King nacho toppings here! Regal Foods When it comes to enhancing the flavor of your nachos, Regal Foods offers a range of delicious toppings that can elevate your nacho experience. Known widely for their tasty and affordable flavor additives for virtually any dish, Regal Foods offers products that take your food to the next level. Their jalapeno slices add a spicy kick that perfectly complements the cheesy goodness of your nachos. Additionally, their black olives provide a savory and rich flavor that enhances the overall taste of your dish. Nacho Toppings They Offer: Jalapeno slices, black olives Average Price Point: 6 cents per ounce See what our customers are saying about Regal Foods nacho toppings here! Advanced Food Products Established in 1951, Advanced Food Products is a wholesale food manufacturer renowned for its wide range of products designed to elevate your culinary creations. Based in the USA, Advanced Food Products is committed to producing high-quality toppings that meet the standards of even the most discerning food enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a creamy cheese sauce to drizzle over your nachos or a zesty chili sauce to add a kick to your dish, Advanced Food Products has you covered. Nacho Toppings They Offer: Chili sauce, cheddar cheese sauce, jalapeno cheese sauce, queso blanco white cheese sauce, Monterey Jack cheese sauce, aged cheddar cheese sauce, mild cheddar cheese sauce Average Price Point: 14 cents per ounce See what our customers are saying about Advanced Food Products nacho toppings here! Furmano's Founded in 1921 deep in the Pennsylvania heartland, Furmano's has a rich history of providing delicious vegetables and condiments to the United States. With a family-owned legacy, Furmano's has established itself as a trusted brand in the food industry. One of their popular offerings includes black beans, which can serve as a flavorful and nutritious nacho topping. Nacho Toppings They Offer: Black beans Average Price Point: 6 cents per ounce See what our customers are saying about Furmano's nacho toppings here! Disclaimer: The average price point is determined at the time of publication. Check product pages for current prices. Back to Top Whether you're adding sheet pan nachos to your appetizer lineup or making walking tacos for your food truck menu, use our list of the most popular nacho toppings to provide the staples customers love. Experimenting with different toppings can elevate your nacho experience and cater to a variety of tastes, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any commercial food establishment. The sky is the limit for what you add to nachos, but these classic choices never go out of style.
Types of Salsa
It’s a topping, it’s a condiment, and it’s universally loved. Salsa is one of those foods that’s easy to prepare and magically highlights the flavors of your fresh seasonal produce. Not all salsa has to be spicy, and it can be adjusted for personal tastes. It’s no wonder that salsa is one of the most popular condiments in the US. Since it’s such a crowd-pleaser, we want to introduce you to salsa varieties you can use to shake up your menu. Don't have time to prepare fresh salsa? Click below. Shop All Bulk Salsa Use these links to learn more about the different types of salsa: Pico de Gallo Salsa Taquera Salsa Roja Salsa Verde Salsa de Aguacate Salsa Criolla Salsa Sauce FAQs What Is Salsa? Salsa is the Spanish word for sauce, so to many Spanish-speaking cultures, salsa could refer to any sauce. Here in the US, we associate the word salsa with a dip made primarily from chopped tomatoes, chiles, and onions. The early Aztecs knew the combo of tomatoes and chiles was a flavorful contrast to the other staples of their diet. A conservative scoop of salsa was probably added to bowls of beans and corn to liven up the dish. Everyone loves complimentary chips and salsa, but salsa can also be elevated to a higher level. Approach salsa as a balanced, flavorful condiment meant to highlight your other dishes instead of a dip that's consumed in great quantities. Use the classic salsas below as your inspiration. Different Types of Salsa This list of salsas will inspire you to start a culinary garden for your restaurant. Fresh salsa usually contains no more than five ingredients and just requires a bit of chopping or blending. 1. Pico de Gallo Pico de gallo is a fresh, uncooked salsa made with finely chopped tomatoes, onions, serrano peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. It’s known for its vibrant colors and fresh taste. Unlike other types of salsa, pico de gallo contains very little liquid, which makes it a great topping for tacos, quesadillas, and other Latin-inspired dishes. In Mexico, there are many variations on the basic pico recipe. Some regions prepare the salsa with jicama and oranges. You’ll also find versions of pico de gallo made with cucumber, mango, or watermelon. One thing is certain, though; traditional Mexican pico de gallo isn’t considered a dip. It’s eaten as a topping on other dishes or even considered a salad. Pico de Gallo Ingredients - Tomato, onion, serrano peppers, lime juice, cilantro, salt Pico de Gallo Uses - Topping, filling, or salad How to Pronounce Pico de Gallo - Peek-o-day-guy-o Other Names for Pico de Gallo - Salsa bandera, salsa fresca, salsa cruda 2. Salsa Taquera Salsa taquera translates to “taco sauce” in Spanish. It’s a popular salsa served in many Mexican taco stands or taquerias. The key ingredient in salsa taquera is the chile de arbol. This thin red chili pepper is hotter than a jalapeno and gives the salsa its signature spicy kick. To make this type of salsa, the chiles and other ingredients are cooked first. They can be boiled in water, roasted, or sauteed in oil. Once cooked, the ingredients are blended to make a smooth salsa. The arbol chiles are the star of the show in this salsa, but you can lower the heat by using fewer chiles and more tomatoes. Salsa Taquera Ingredients - Tomato, arbol chiles, onion, garlic, salt, lime juice Salsa Taquera Uses - Topping for tacos How to Pronounce Salsa Taquera - Sal-sa tah-keh-ra Other Names for Salsa Taquera - Chile de arbol salsa 3. Salsa Roja In Spanish, salsa roja means “red sauce”. This is a general term that covers any type of blended red salsa made with tomatoes. Salsa roja can be made from raw ingredients, cooked ingredients, or a combination of both. It can be pureed until it’s completely smooth or blended slightly for a chunky consistency. Salsa vs Enchilada Sauce Enchilada sauce is sometimes called red sauce, so how is it different from salsa roja? These two sauces might overlap in their ingredients, but the key difference is that enchilada sauce is thin, smooth, and served hot. It’s also considered an important part of dishes like enchiladas, while salsa roja is a cold table sauce that can be added to anything. Salsa Roja Ingredients - Tomato, onion, serrano or jalapeno peppers, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, salt Salsa Roja Uses - Table sauce and condiment How to Pronounce Salsa Taquera - Sal-sa ro-ha Other Names for Salsa Roja - Red sauce, salsa coicida, salsa asada, salsa Mexicana 4. Salsa Verde Salsa verde is a “green sauce” that’s made with tomatillos instead of tomatoes. The term salsa verde could refer to any green sauce, but in Mexico, green salsa is made with tomatillos. These small green fruits are native to Mexico and are less sweet and more acidic than tomatoes, which creates a type of salsa with a bright, vegetal flavor. Just like salsa roja, salsa verde can be made from cooked or raw ingredients. Roasting or charring the ingredients first brings out more sweetness in the salsa verde. Raw, uncooked ingredients produce tarter salsas. Because tomatillos have high acidity already, salsa verde doesn’t need lime juice to balance out the flavors. Salsa verde is pureed into a smooth sauce and served cold as a table salsa or condiment. Salsa Verde Ingredients - Tomatillos, onions, serrano or jalapeno peppers, garlic, cilantro Salsa Verde Uses - Table sauce and condiment How to Pronounce Salsa Verde - Sal-sa vair-day Other Names for Salsa Verde - Green salsa, verde salsa, tomatillo salsa 5. Salsa de Aguacate Salsa de aguacate is a creamy, green salsa made with tomatillos and avocado. The raw ingredients are pureed to make a smooth topping that’s often served with tacos and grilled meats. This type of salsa balances the refreshing coolness of avocado with the spiciness of serrano peppers. Avocado Salsa vs Guacamole Avocado salsa is another name for salsa de aguacate, but don’t get it mixed up with guacamole. The difference between these two green condiments is that avocado salsa contains tomatillos, and guacamole does not. Salsa de aguacate also has a thin, smooth consistency and guacamole is a thick, chunky dip. Salsa de Aguacate Ingredients - Avocados, tomatillos, onion, serrano peppers, garlic, cilantro Salsa de Aguacate Uses - Topping and condiment How to Pronounce Salsa de Aguacate - Sal-sa day ah-gwa-ka-tay Other Names for Salsa de Aguacate - Tomatillo guacamole, guacamole salsa, avocado salsa verde 6. Salsa Criolla Peruvian salsa criolla has a different look than the other types of salsas on our list because it contains sliced red onions instead of chopped onions. To achieve the perfect salsa criolla, the onions are thinly sliced, then sprinkled with salt, and lightly massaged. This removes any bitterness or bite from the onions and coaxes out their natural sweetness. Authentic salsa criolla also contains a bright orange chile called aji amarillo which adds a fruity, peppery bite. Orange bell pepper can be substituted for the amarillo pepper, but it produces a mild-tasting salsa. This red onion relish is a popular condiment in Peru, but it’s also enjoyed throughout Central and South America. Use it as a topping on meats and sandwiches. Salsa Criolla Ingredients - Red onion, aji amarillo peppers, cilantro, lime juice, salt Salsa Criolla Uses - Relish, topping, condiment, salad How to Pronounce Salsa Criolla - Sal-sa kree-o-luh Other Names for Salsa Criolla - Peruvian red onion relish, Peruvian pickled onions, red onion salsa Salsa FAQs We answer some common salsa questions below: Is Salsa a Sauce? Yes, salsa is the Spanish word for sauce. The salsa made from chopped tomatoes, peppers, and onions is more of a topping or condiment, but it can be blended into a smooth sauce-like consistency depending on your preference. Salsa taquera is often served in sauce bottles so customers can add the desired amount to their tacos. What Is Cantina Style Salsa vs Regular Salsa? Cantina style is a term used to describe salsa that is restaurant quality. Jarred cantina-style salsa has a thin consistency, and regular salsa in the jar is usually chunky. What's the Difference between Taco Sauce and Salsa? Taco sauce is a smooth, tomato-based sauce with a concentrated flavor that comes from garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, and sometimes even sugar. Salsa can be smooth or chunky, but it gets most of its flavor from fresh produce and herbs like cilantro. What Is a Molcajete? A molcajete bowl is a Mexican tool used to mash ingredients for dishes like salsa or guacamole. Just like a mortar and pestle, the molcajete consists of a large bowl and a grinder tool called the tejolote. The original molcajete bowls were made from volcanic stone, but it's common to find them made in materials like granite or marble. There are also lightweight, plastic molcajete bowls that can be used for serving salsa in restaurants. History of Salsa Food You can’t talk about authentic Mexican salsas without first honoring their history. The origin of salsa made from chopped tomatoes goes back to a time when Central America was home to the Aztecs, Incas, and Mayans. It was likely all these cultures ate salsa in some form, but the Aztec diet was documented in more detail, so they are often credited with inventing it. A Franciscan missionary working in Central America recorded information about Aztec foods, including a sauce made from tomatoes, chiles, and squash seeds. This combination of ingredients didn’t go by one specific name until a Spanish priest dubbed it “salsa” in the 1500s. The Aztec tradition was passed down to subsequent cultures living in Central America and Mexico. Like many traditional Hispanic foods, salsa has come to be loved throughout all of North America. Now that you know more about the types of authentic salsa, you can skip the jarred stuff and prepare your own. Salsa is easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to your other menu items.
