When you think of authentic Mexican restaurants, what comes to mind first? Chances are, fajitas probably did not make the list. Instead, when it concerns Mexican cuisine, it’s more likely the taco, freshly made guacamole or a margarita that came to mind. Why is this? Perhaps it’s the infamous Taco Tuesday that has gone viral or the numerous holidays that promote the margarita. Either way, our family at Monarquia is thrilled about an upcoming day that celebrates the well deserved fajita.
Yes, you read that correctly. We are gearing up to celebrate the highly customizable, sizzling, and always flavorful fajita. Served with your choice of tortilla, ingredients that are sauteed to perfection and blended with your favorite Mexican spices, what’s not to be excited about? We’re getting hungry just thinking about it!
So, why all the hype around tacos when fajitas bring just as much fun to the table?
Excellent question! We’ve often wondered the same. Don’t get us wrong, we understand the taco excitement with the endless options, taco bar nights with friends, and so on. However, the fajita provides the same (if not more) options – with a sizzle. Have you ever ordered a fajita when dining out? The sound of a sizzling platter heading towards your table, the mouth-watering aromas that follow, placed in front of you with the freshest side options – what is there not to love?
With this in mind, it doesn’t seem fair that the taco has a day – every week mind you. Well amigos, this problem was solved in 2016 when the famous chain restaurant, On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina, founded National Fajita Day! Let us rephrase. The chain coined the national phrase, but the history of this Mexican dish goes back much further.
To appreciate something, one must first have an understanding of its background.
Believe it or not, the fajita comes from humble beginnings that started during the Great Depression. The concept of the fajita surfaced for the first time when Mexican workers in Texas were paid by employers with throwaway cuts of meat. The workers brought the meat home to their families and cooked it over an open fire. Combined with local sides like freshly made corn tortillas, guacamole, salsa, and beans, this smokey flavored meat not only satisfied but quickly became the talk of the locals.
However popular, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the fajita grew to become a national phenomenon. Known as the ‘Fajita King,’ Sonny Falcon introduced the fajita to the public on a level that would change this once considered poor meal forever.
August 18th is National Fajita Day! From shrimp to chicken, steak to veggies, the possibilities are endless at Monarquia Restaurant.
Visit Monarquia to celebrate National Fajita Day! Be sure to share a picture with #NationalFajitaDay on the Monarquia Facebook page.
Follow, like, and share – we appreciate your love and support! See you soon, amigos, for the best, freshest, sizzling fajitas – just the way you like them!