When it comes to portable snack foods, two options that have gained popularity over the years are Walking Tacos and Frito Pies. These snacks are convenient to eat and can be easily prepared at home, at a game day party, or while on the go. In this article, we will compare the two snacks in terms of their ingredients, preparation, taste, nutritional value, popularity, availability, and cost to determine which is the better snack food.
What are Walking Tacos?
Walking Tacos, also known as Fritos Tacos or Fritos Bowls, are a popular snack food in the United States, especially at sporting events, fairs, and festivals. This snack consists of a small bag of Fritos corn chips that are opened at the top and filled with taco meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and other toppings of choice. The contents of the bag are mixed together and eaten with a fork or spoon.
Ingredients
The basic ingredients of a Walking Taco include Fritos corn chips, taco meat (ground beef or turkey), shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, salsa, and sour cream. Some people also add other toppings such as jalapeños, onions, or black olives. The Fritos chips provide a crunchy base for the toppings, while the taco meat, cheese, and other toppings add flavor and texture to the snack.
Preparation
To prepare a Walking Taco, start by browning ground beef or turkey in a skillet and adding taco seasoning. Once the meat is cooked, set it aside. Next, open a small bag of Fritos corn chips and crush them slightly to create more space in the bag. Then, add the taco meat, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, salsa, and sour cream to the bag. Mix the contents together and enjoy with a fork or spoon.
Advantages
Walking Tacos are a convenient and portable snack that can be eaten on the go. They are also easy to prepare, making them a popular option for game day parties, outdoor events, or even a quick meal at home. The Fritos corn chips provide a crunchy texture, while the taco meat, cheese, and other toppings add flavor and variety to the snack.
Disadvantages
While Walking Tacos are convenient and easy to prepare, they can also be messy to eat. The toppings can spill out of the bag, and the bag itself can tear or puncture. Additionally, the snack may not be as healthy due to the high fat and calorie content of the taco meat and cheese.
What are Frito Pies?
Frito Pies, also known as Fritos Pie or Fritos Casserole, are a classic American dish that originated in the Southwest. This snack consists of a layer of Fritos corn chips on the bottom of a baking dish, topped with chili, cheese, and other toppings of choice. The dish is then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Ingredients
The basic ingredients of a Frito Pie include Fritos corn chips, chili (homemade or canned), shredded cheese, onions, and jalapeños. Some people also add other toppings such as sour cream or guacamole. The Fritos chips provide a crunchy base for the chili and toppings, while the cheese adds flavor and texture.
Preparation
To prepare a Frito Pie, start by preheating the oven to 375°F. Then, spread a layer of Fritos corn chips on the bottom of a baking dish. Next, add a layer of chili on top of the Fritos. Sprinkle shredded cheese, onions, and jalapeños on top of the chili. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up. Finally, bake the Frito Pie in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
Advantages
Frito Pies are a delicious and filling snack that can be enjoyed as a meal on their own. They are also easy to customize by adding different toppings or using different types of chili. The Fritos corn chips provide a crunchy texture, while the chili and cheese add flavor and depth to the dish.
Disadvantages
Frito Pies can be time-consuming to prepare, as they require baking in the oven. They are also less portable than Walking Tacos, as they are meant to be eaten with a fork and cannot be easily carried around. Additionally, like Walking Tacos, Frito Pies may not be as healthy due to the high fat and calorie content of the cheese and chili.
Comparison of Walking Tacos vs Frito Pies
Taste and Flavor
The taste and flavor of Walking Tacos and Frito Pies are quite different, despite sharing some similar ingredients. Walking Tacos have a tangy and spicy flavor, thanks to the taco meat and salsa, while the Fritos corn chips provide a crunchy and salty base. Frito Pies, on the other hand, have a rich and savory flavor, thanks to the chili and cheese, while the Fritos corn chips provide a crunchy and slightly sweet base.
Comparison of taste
Ultimately, the taste and flavor of Walking Tacos and Frito Pies come down to personal preference. If you prefer a tangy and spicy snack, then Walking Tacos may be the way to go. If you prefer a rich and savory snack, then Frito Pies may be more your style.
Nutritional Value
Both Walking Tacos and Frito Pies may not be the healthiest snack options due to their high fat and calorie content. However, there are some differences in their nutritional value.
Calories
A Walking Taco can range from 350-600 calories per serving, depending on the amount and type of toppings added. A Frito Pie can range from 600-800 calories per serving, depending on the size of the dish and the amount of cheese used.
Fat content
A Walking Taco can have up to 25 grams of fat per serving, while a Frito Pie can have up to 40 grams of fat per serving, depending on the amount of cheese and chili used.
Carbohydrates
Both Walking Tacos and Frito Pies are high in carbohydrates due to the Fritos corn chips and other toppings. A Walking Taco can have up to 60 grams of carbohydrates per serving, while a Frito Pie can have up to 70 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Protein
Both Walking Tacos and Frito Pies contain protein from the taco meat and chili, with a Walking Taco providing around 20 grams of protein per serving and a Frito Pie providing around 30 grams of protein per serving.
Comparison of nutritional value
Overall, Frito Pies tend to be higher in calories, fat, and carbohydrates than Walking Tacos. However, both snacks can be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
Popularity and Availability
Walking Tacos and Frito Pies are both popular snack foods in the United States, especially at sporting events and fairs. However, they may be more popular in certain regions or at certain events than others.
Where are Walking Tacos and Frito Pies available?
Walking Tacos and Frito Pies can be found at concession stands at sporting events, fairs, and festivals. They may also be served at some restaurants or made at home.
The popularity of Walking Tacos:
Walking Tacos have gained popularity in recent years, with many people sharing their own versions of the snack on social media. They have also become a popular option for outdoor events and camping trips, as they are easy to prepare and can be eaten on the go.
The popularity of Frito Pies:
Frito Pies have a long history in the United States, dating back to the 1960s. They have remained a popular snack food at sporting events and fairs, as well as comfort food in many households. However, they may be less well-known in other parts of the country or among younger generations.
Conclusion
Walking Tacos and Frito Pies may have some similarities in ingredients, but they are distinct snacks with their own unique flavor profiles and preparation methods. While Walking Tacos are a portable and customizable option with a tangy and spicy flavor, Frito Pies are a filling and savory snack with a crunchy and slightly sweet base.
Both snacks may not be the healthiest options due to their high fat and calorie content, but they can be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat. Ultimately, the choice between Walking Tacos and Frito Pies comes down to personal preference and the occasion at hand.