How Many Tacos for a Wedding?
Planning the perfect wedding menu is a daunting task, especially when trying to please a diverse crowd. Tacos, with their versatility and universal appeal, have become a popular choice for wedding catering. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of planning the perfect taco spread for your special day, covering quantity recommendations, types of tacos, toppings, additional food options, drinks, and the crucial decision between DIY and hiring a caterer.
Quantity Recommendations:
Three to Four Tacos per Person: For a wedding, it’s recommended to plan a minimum of 3-4 tacos per person. This ensures guests can enjoy their fill without leaving excess food.
Types of Tacos:
American-style vs. Street-style: Consider the type of taco when calculating quantities. American-style tacos, typically larger with flour tortillas, may require fewer per person compared to smaller street-style tacos with corn tortillas. A good rule of thumb is a minimum of 2-3 American-style or 3-4 street-style tacos per person.
Quantity and Pricing Estimates:
| Number of Guests | Type of Taco | Number of Tacos | Price Estimate* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Flour | 30 | $120 |
| 25 | Corn | 100 | $200 |
| … and so on. | … | … | … |
*Prices are estimates and may vary.
Main Dish or Side:
Consider whether tacos will be the main dish or part of a broader menu. If other dishes are provided, adjust the taco quantity accordingly to 1-2 flour tacos or 2-3 street tacos per person.
Types of Toppings:
American-style Tacos: Lettuce, Tomatoes, Cheese, Sour Cream, Salsa, Guacamole.
Street-style Tacos: Add Cucumbers, Limes/lime juice, Diced onions, Pickled onions, Cilantro.
Additional Food Options:
Consider complementing tacos with:
- Burritos: A good alternative to tacos.
- Chips and Salsa: A budget-friendly side option.
- Other Mexican Options: Tostadas, tamales, enchiladas, salads, and nachos.
Drinks:
Pair tacos with traditional Mexican options like horchata, limeade, lemonade, and jamaica. Alternatively, offer soda or water for a versatile drink selection.
DIY vs. Hiring:
Doing it Yourself (DIY):
Tip #1: Ensure an ample supply of meat and tortillas. Tip #2: Enlist help; don’t attempt it alone. Tip #3: Practice your recipes beforehand.
Hiring a Caterer:
Rule #1-4: Book in advance, communicate expectations, and costs clearly. Regular contact ensures everything runs smoothly.
Conclusion:
Tacos are an excellent choice for wedding catering, providing a crowd-pleasing, customizable, and budget-friendly option. Whether you opt for the DIY approach or hire a caterer, careful planning and communication are key to a successful and stress-free wedding catering experience.