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While a soft, fresh corn tortilla holds high esteem as the base of an “authentic” taco, crunchy shells hold a special nostalgic place within Mexican cuisine as well. For a hard-shell taco, check out south side hole-in-the-wall Taqueria Porfis at 3553 S. 12th Ave. #117.

Upon arriving, grab a seat and order the combinación, or combo plate, which comes with a taco al vapor, taco dorado, and chimichanga, all topped with chopped lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and wedges of lime.

Two of the items showcase the crunch: the taco dorado and the miniature chimichanga, both filled with shredded beef and potato.

The signature taco al vapor also features a filling of shredded beef and potato, but the tortilla is dipped in a red salsa for a vibrant red-orange hue. While the taco name implies it is steamed, it still has a toothsomeness to it. The flavor combination here with the salsa lightly evokes memory of eating a piping hot red chile tamal.

If you can handle spice, grab the tableside bottle of fiery árbol salsa.

For more information, visit taqueriaporfisaz.com.

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