The 1990s brought us Walking Tacos, a fun, on-the-go snack that became a staple at school events, sports games, and fairs across the U.S.
This simple dish, made by adding taco toppings to a bag of chips, was both delicious and portable, perfectly matching the fast-paced lifestyle of the decade. Walking Tacos reflected the convenience culture of the 90s, when easy, handheld meals were on the rise.
An Overview of the 1990s: A Decade of Change
Politics in the 1990s
The 1990s were marked by significant global and domestic political shifts. In the U.S., Bill Clinton was elected president in 1992, ushering in a period of economic growth and political moderation.
Internationally, the decade saw the end of the Cold War and the rise of the Internet as a new platform for diplomacy and communication. The U.S. also experienced increased military involvement in places like the Balkans and Somalia, shaping its foreign policy.
Domestically, the Clinton administration focused on economic reform, welfare reform, and healthcare, though attempts at major healthcare changes were unsuccessful.
The decade was largely characterized by relative peace and economic prosperity, often referred to as the “Clinton boom,” driven by a rise in tech industries and globalization.
Culture in the 1990s
Culturally, the 1990s were a vibrant mix of music, movies, and fashion. Grunge music, led by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, dominated the early part of the decade, while pop music exploded with artists like Britney Spears, NSYNC, and Backstreet Boys later in the 90s.
Fashion trends, such as baggy jeans, flannel shirts, and platform shoes, reflected the eclectic nature of the decade.
The 1990s also saw a shift in how people consumed media, with the rise of cable TV, the Internet, and video game consoles like the Sony PlayStation and Nintendo 64.
Shows like Friends, Seinfeld, and The X-Files became cultural phenomena, while movies like Titanic and Jurassic Park broke box-office records.
Technology in the 1990s
The 1990s were defined by technological advancements that would forever change the way people lived and communicated.
The rise of the personal computer and the Internet revolutionized homes and workplaces. The first web browsers, such as Netscape Navigator, allowed millions to explore the World Wide Web, leading to the birth of e-commerce, social interaction, and online entertainment.
Mobile phones became increasingly common, though far bulkier than today’s smartphones. The dot-com boom of the late 90s fueled economic growth, setting the stage for the digital revolution that followed.
The Most Popular Dish of the 1990s: Walking Tacos Explained
While fast food chains like McDonald’s and Taco Bell saw significant growth in the 1990s, Walking Tacos captured the decade’s love for convenience, casual eating, and fun.
The dish is simple: a single-serve bag of chips (usually Fritos or Doritos) is opened, and taco toppings like seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream are added directly into the bag.
This handheld meal was perfect for people on the go—whether at school, a sporting event, or a carnival. It was a fast, portable version of a taco that didn’t require utensils or plates, making it both practical and delicious. The Walking Taco quickly became a favorite snack of the 90s, embodying the decade’s emphasis on quick, no-fuss meals.
Walking Tacos Recipe
Walking Tacos
Ingredients
- 4 small bags of Fritos or Doritos
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salsa jalapeños, or guacamole (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to the packet instructions, typically with a bit of water.
- Assemble the Tacos: Open each bag of chips and crush the chips slightly while still inside the bag. This makes it easier to eat with a fork or spoon.
- Add Toppings: Spoon a portion of the seasoned ground beef into each bag, then add shredded lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. Customize with salsa, jalapeños, or guacamole if desired.
- Enjoy: Grab a fork and eat the taco straight from the bag!
Video
Notes
- Chips: Fritos and Doritos are the most common chips for Walking Tacos, but you can experiment with different flavors for a unique twist.
- Customization: Walking Tacos are highly customizable—add beans, jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for seasoned black beans or meat alternatives to make a vegetarian version.