What is a Hard Shell Taco Made Of? The Crunchy Truth
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                The hard shell taco is an American culinary icon, not a traditional Mexican dish. The foundation of this beloved comfort food is simpler than many people realize, answering the question: what is a hard shell taco made of? It's primarily a corn tortilla, transformed by oil and heat into its signature crunchy form.