Fajita Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fajita
[fəˈhiːtə ]
Definition
food dish
A fajita is a popular Tex-Mex dish that typically consists of grilled meat served on a tortilla, accompanied by various toppings. Common fillings include beef, chicken, or shrimp, and they are often marinated with spices, lime juice, and other seasonings before cooking. Fajitas are usually served with condiments such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream, allowing diners to customize their meal. The dish is known for its vibrant flavors and sizzling presentation, making it a favorite in both restaurants and home kitchens.
Synonyms
grilled meat dish, taco, wrap.
Examples of usage
- We ordered chicken fajitas at the restaurant.
- The fajitas sizzled on the grill.
- I love making veggie fajitas for a healthy dinner.
- She topped her fajita with fresh guacamole.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Arts
- Fajitas were originally made with skirt steak, a cheaper cut of meat, which was popular in Texas in the 1930s.
- Traditionally served with peppers and onions, they have become customizable with different meats and vegetables to suit all tastes.
- The sizzling sound fajitas make when served hot on a skillet adds to the excitement of the dining experience.
Cultural Significance
- Fajitas epitomize Tex-Mex cuisine, blending Texas and Mexican influences into a beloved dish enjoyed worldwide.
- They are often enjoyed in social settings, making them a favorite for gatherings, parties, and celebrations.
- The food is an embodiment of cultural fusion, showcasing how different culinary traditions can create something new and delicious.
Pop Culture
- Fajitas became a cultural icon during the Tex-Mex food movement, symbolizing a festive and fun culinary experience.
- They have been featured in numerous TV shows and movies, often as a representation of casual dining and culinary creativity.
- Creative variations, such as chicken or shrimp fajitas, show how this dish has evolved beyond its original form.
Nutrition
- Fajitas can be a healthy dish, especially when made with lean meats and plenty of vegetables, offering a good balance of nutrients.
- Many people enjoy fajitas as a low-carb option by replacing tortillas with lettuce wraps, appealing to diverse dietary needs.
- The combination of proteins, vitamins, and minerals in fajitas makes them a well-rounded meal, contributing to a balanced diet.
Origin of 'fajita'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'fajita' comes from the Spanish word 'faja,' meaning 'belt' or 'strap,' referring to the cut of meat originally used.
- The first documented use of 'fajitas' was in a 1971 Texas restaurant menu, but local ranchers had been making them long before.
- The dish gained popularity in the 1980s, primarily through restaurants that put them in the spotlight during the Tex-Mex boom.
The term 'fajita' originates from the Spanish word 'faja', which means 'belt' or 'strap'. This refers to the cut of meat used in the traditional preparation of this dish, particularly skirt steak. The term began to be used in the United States in the 1930s in the area along the Texas-Mexico border. Originally, fajitas were a way for ranch workers to utilize tougher cuts of meat, grilling them and serving them with tortillas. The dish gained popularity throughout the 1980s, evolving into various forms that included a wide range of ingredients. Today, fajitas are a beloved staple in Tex-Mex cuisine worldwide, often featuring grilled vegetables and a variety of proteins.