Are Taco Holders Worth Buying?

Honestly, while it may seem like a superfluous purchase, I love my taco holders. It's so much easier to fill my taco shells and keep them from falling over and spilling the contents all over my plate.

My Experience with Taco Holders

I have gone my entire life without taco holders… until a few months ago when my wife bought a set. I found I like them especially for soft tacos. We make tacos several times a month on average, so they get used often enough. They aren’t very expensive around $16 for a stainless set of four. They do take up storage space in a kitchen and kitchens can get pretty cluttered with all the gadgets and stuff that accumulates over the years. But they are certainly not necessary. They do make it easier to fill a taco without spilling stuff on the plate and they make a nice presentation, which is why I decided to invest.

Earlier in my life, most of the cabinets in my kitchens were too full and too cluttered. If you are like that, why add more clutter? But now living in a spacious house, I have plenty of room to store them. I don't know if you would find them 'worth it' or not, but for me, they serve a practical purpose and they don't really add much clutter to the kitchen.

Context and Local Habits

Although I live in México, the birthplace and home of tacos, and I've eaten tacos for as long as I can remember in both México and Southern California, I’m not sure we ever had something special to hold tacos in here. My mother’s kitchen never had one, and I certainly don’t have one. I don’t remember any places I’ve ever eaten at that had something special for holding tacos. The tacos here come on squares of waxed paper or wrapped in the paper and aluminum on a plate or in a box. I serve them on disposable plates.

My impression is that if we don't use them widely in México, where we eat tacos so frequently, then no one in the USA is likely to need one. However, just because something isn’t a common kitchen gadget in Mexico doesn't necessarily mean it's not useful. There is a reason why some people choose to use taco holders - to save time, keep the table clean, and make the presentation of tacos look more professional.

Personal Impression

Looking at the photo of a red plastic plate that served as a taco holder for some yummy authentic Ensenada-style fish tacos at home under the palapa, I can appreciate how a taco holder can add a touch of class to your dining experience. Even though it might seem unnecessary, the convenience of having a taco holder can be significant, especially when you're in the mood to enjoy a meal without worrying about droplets of salsa or beans spilling on your table.

Ultimately, whether or not you should buy taco holders depends on your personal preferences. If you frequently make or serve tacos, they can be a handy tool. If your kitchen is already cluttered, consider whether you have enough space and a practical need for one. However, if you have the space and find it convenient, there's no harm in giving them a try. Whether you're a taco lover or a casual diner, the right kitchen gadget can enhance your culinary experience.