Do you love a good burrito? If you do, then have you ever tried the fried version of it? That’s right, this crispy take on the classic burrito is known by a very special name. All over the world, it’s known as the chimichanga – a Mexican-American concoction that has swept the world with its flavorsome taste and crunchy texture.
The question remains, where did the name come from? Some say it was created in Arizona, whilst others believe it originated from Mexico. Either way, the chimichanga is a beloved dish, and it can be found on most Mexican restaurant menus worldwide. The beauty of the chimichanga though is the ability to fill it with just about anything. From succulent meats to veggies galore, its versatility has caused it to become a longtime favorite for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts.
If you’re yet to try the chimichanga for yourself, you’re definitely missing out. With its crispy exterior, the fried burrito gives off an additional texture that enhances the spices and flavors of the filling within. So next time you’re looking for a new foodie adventure to embark on, why not try the chimichanga? As they say, nothing beats biting into the crispy goodness of this fried burrito.
Different names of “fried burrito” in different regions and countries.
A fried burrito, a type of Mexican cuisine, is known worldwide, and different regions and countries have their own ways of calling it. Here are some of the various names for a fried burrito in different regions and countries:
- In Mexico, a fried burrito is known as chimichanga, which means “thingamajig” in Spanish. The origin of its name is still unknown to many, but some say that it has to do with the sound the burrito makes when it is dropped into oil.
- In the southwestern region of the United States, it is called a chimichanga as well. It is said that the dish first appeared in Tucson, Arizona, in the mid-20th century.
- In northern Mexico, a fried burrito is known as a flauta, which means “flute” in Spanish. It is named as such because of its long, skinny shape, resembling the instrument.
- Another name for a fried burrito is taquito, which means “small taco” in Spanish. It is often served as an appetizer or snack and is much smaller than the regular burrito.
While the names may differ, the concept remains the same – a crispy exterior made from deep-fried tortillas or flour wraps, with various fillings such as beans, cheese, ground beef, and rice. It is often served with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, making it a filling and delicious meal.
Ingredients used in making a fried burrito.
Fried burritos are a popular Mexican dish that have traveled worldwide due to their unique texture and flavor. The burritos are filled with a variety of ingredients that are wrapped in a flour tortilla and then deep-fried until crispy. The following are some of the main ingredients used in making a fried burrito:
- Meat: The most common meat used in fried burritos is beef, especially ground beef, but other options include pork, chicken, shrimp, or fish. Spice rubs and marinades are great ways to season meat before cooking.
- Beans: Refried beans are a popular addition to fried burritos, and they also help to bind the ingredients together. Pinto or black beans are the most commonly used types.
- Cheese: A variety of cheeses can be used, including shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco. Cheese adds flavor and helps bind the filling ingredients together.
Vegetables:
- Peppers and onions: Sautéed peppers and onions add a great depth of flavor to any fried burrito. Red, yellow, and green peppers are commonly used, and onions are also added for their sweetness.
- Jalapenos: Finely chopped jalapeno peppers can add a spicy kick to the filling. Be sure to remove the seeds and ribbing to tone down the spice level.
- Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add freshness and a juicy texture to the filling. Roma tomatoes work well, but any type of ripe tomato will do.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a unique herbal flavor to the filling that enhances the other ingredients. Fresh basil or parsley can also be used.
The following table provides a list of ingredients that can be used to fill a fried burrito:
| Meat | Beans | Cheese | Vegetables | Seasonings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beef | Pinto | Cheddar | Peppers | Cumin |
| Chicken | Black | Monterey Jack | Onions | Chili powder |
| Pork | Refried | Queso fresco | Jalapenos | Paprika |
Get creative with your filling ingredients for a truly unique and delicious take on the classic fried burrito.
Types of Fillings Used in Fried Burritos
A fried burrito is a favorite Mexican dish that is packed with flavors and textures. It is a delicious treat that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The filling is the heart and soul of a fried burrito. It is what makes it unique and flavorful. Here are the most common types of fillings used in fried burritos:
- Beef – Ground beef is a classic filling used in fried burritos. It is seasoned with various spices, including cumin, paprika, and chili powder, to give it a smoky and savory flavor. The beef is then wrapped in a tortilla, fried until golden brown, and served alongside a variety of toppings and dipping sauces.
- Chicken – Shredded chicken is a popular filling choice for fried burritos. The chicken is cooked until tender and then mixed with spices such as cumin, garlic, and oregano, to give it a zesty flavor. The chicken filling is then wrapped in a tortilla, fried until crispy, and served with a variety of condiments such as guacamole and salsa.
- Bean – Refried beans are a vegetarian filling option that is rich in protein and flavor. The beans are mashed and seasoned with spices such as cumin, garlic, and coriander, to give them a smoky and earthy flavor. The bean filling is then wrapped in a tortilla, fried until crispy, and served with various toppings such as chopped tomatoes and lettuce.
Customizable Fillings
A fried burrito is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different fillings to create a unique flavor profile. Here are some of the fillings that you can try:
- Pork – Shredded pork is a popular filling in Mexican cuisine. It is seasoned with various spices such as cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, to give it a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Cheese – Melted cheese can be used as a filling in fried burritos, along with other ingredients such as onion, cilantro, and diced tomatoes.
- Seafood – A seafood filling can be made with shrimp or fish, seasoned with garlic, lime juice, and chili powder, to create a zesty and refreshing filling option.
The Perfect Combination
A fried burrito is a great dish to indulge in once in a while. It is a combination of crispy and savory, and it’s perfect for satisfying your cravings. The table below shows the different types of fillings and the toppings that you can use to enhance the flavor:
| Fillings | Toppings |
|---|---|
| Beef | Sour cream, guacamole, salsa |
| Chicken | Lettuce, tomatoes, hot sauce |
| Bean | Jalapeños, cheese, cilantro |
Experiment with different fillings and toppings to find the perfect combination that satisfies your taste buds. Enjoy your delicious fried burrito!
Vegetarian and vegan options for fried burritos.
For those who avoid meat or animal by-products, there are still plenty of delicious options to choose from when it comes to fried burritos. Vegan and vegetarian fried burritos can be made with a variety of ingredients, and the filling possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas:
- Black bean and vegetable: This classic vegetarian option is packed with protein and flavor. A mixture of black beans, seasoned veggies like peppers and onions, and cheese (omit for a vegan option) is fried to perfection inside a tortilla. Serve with salsa and guacamole for a complete meal.
- Mushroom and spinach: For a gourmet twist on the fried burrito, try a filling of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and spinach. Add some vegan cheese for extra creaminess and fry until golden brown.
- Roasted sweet potato and black bean: This vegan option is hearty and filling. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven until tender and combine with black beans and spices like chili powder and cumin. Fry in a tortilla and enjoy with avocado or hot sauce.
Fried burritos table of nutrition information
| Option | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black bean and vegetable | 470 | 17 | 69 | 14 |
| Mushroom and spinach | 410 | 14 | 56 | 12 |
| Roasted sweet potato and black bean | 520 | 14 | 86 | 13 |
When it comes to vegetarian and vegan options for fried burritos, there are countless possibilities. Whether you prefer spicy or mild, cheesy or not, there is a filling combination that will satisfy both your taste buds and your dietary needs.
Popular toppings and sauces used with fried burritos.
Adding the right toppings and sauces to your fried burrito can take it to the next level, elevating the flavors and complementing the crunchy texture. Here are some of the most popular toppings and sauces that can make your fried burrito even better:
- Sour Cream – This classic sauce adds a cool and tangy flavor to your fried burrito, balancing out the heat and saltiness of the filling.
- Guacamole – Made with mashed avocado, lime, and salt, this creamy and rich sauce is a perfect complement to the crispy texture of the fried burrito.
- Salsa – Whether it’s mild or spicy, fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and boldness to your fried burrito.
In addition to these classic toppings and sauces, some people like to get more creative with their fried burritos. Here are some of the more unconventional toppings you can try:
- Pico de Gallo – This fresh and chunky salsa is made with chopped tomato, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a burst of bright flavors to your fried burrito.
- Pickled Onions – These tangy and crunchy onions are a wonderful addition to any fried burrito, adding a zingy flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Queso – Melted cheese sauce is a decadent and indulgent topping that can take your fried burrito to the next level.
Toppings and Sauces Table
Here’s a table summarizing the most popular toppings and sauces for fried burritos:
| Topping/Sauce | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Sour Cream | Cool, tangy | Smooth, creamy |
| Guacamole | Creamy, rich | Smooth, chunky |
| Salsa | Bright, bold | Chunky, liquidy |
| Pico de Gallo | Fresh, herby | Chunky, crunchy |
| Pickled Onions | Tangy, zingy | Crunchy, crisp |
| Queso | Melted cheese | Smooth, creamy |
With these toppings and sauces, you can create a fried burrito that is truly your own, with flavors and textures that speak to your taste buds.
Healthier alternatives to fried burritos.
While fried burritos may be delicious, they’re not always the healthiest option. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health. Here are some options:
- Baked burritos: instead of frying your burritos, try baking them in the oven. This will result in a crispy outer shell without all the added oil and calories.
- Grilled burritos: another option is to grill your burritos instead of frying them. This will give them a nice char and smoky flavor without all the added fat.
- Vegetarian burritos: swapping out meat for veggies can make your burrito much healthier. Load it up with beans, roasted vegetables, and avocado for a nutritious and filling meal.
It’s also important to watch your portion sizes when it comes to burritos. Restaurants often serve oversized portions, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. Consider sharing a burrito with a friend or saving half for later.
Here’s a comparison of the calorie and fat content of a fried burrito versus a grilled chicken burrito:
| Food | Calories | Total Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Beef Burrito (1 burrito) | 575 | 26 |
| Grilled Chicken Burrito (1 burrito) | 420 | 13 |
As you can see, the grilled chicken burrito is significantly lower in calories and fat than the fried beef burrito. This is just one example of how making small changes to your burrito can have a big impact on your health.
Best restaurant chains for trying out fried burritos.
If you’re in the mood for a crispy, savory burrito, there are plenty of restaurant chains that offer this delicious dish. Whether you prefer a classic bean and cheese filling or something a little more adventurous, here are some of the best restaurant chains to try out a fried burrito.
- Taco Bell – If you’re looking for a cheap and fast option, Taco Bell is a great choice. Their Spicy Potato Soft Taco is a fan favorite, and they also offer a Crunchwrap Supreme with a crispy outer layer.
- Del Taco – This chain offers a variety of fried burritos, including the Epic Crispy Chicken Avocado, which features guacamole and ranch dressing inside a crispy shell.
- Moe’s Southwest Grill – Moe’s is known for their “Homewrecker” burrito, and their Crunchy Wrap is a tasty twist on this classic dish. It’s filled with your choice of meat, beans, cheese, and more, all wrapped up in a crispy, fried tortilla.
If you’re more of a traditionalist, you may prefer the classic fried burrito from your local Mexican restaurant. Many mom and pop shops and regional chains offer their own take on this popular dish.
Here is a table below that states a few regional restaurant chains that offer crispy burritos:
| Restaurant Chain | Location | Famous Fried Burrito |
|---|---|---|
| Chimi’s Mexican Food | Oklahoma | Chimi’s Famous Fried Burrito |
| La Taqueria | California | The Mission Burrito |
| Casa De Tamales | California | The Fried Tamales Burrito |
No matter where you go, the crispy, crunchy goodness of a fried burrito is sure to delight your taste buds. So why not try something new and exciting the next time you’re at one of these restaurant chains or your local Mexican eatery?
FAQs: What Is a Fried Burrito Called?
Q: What is a fried burrito called?
A: A fried burrito is called a chimichanga. It is believed to have originated from Arizona.
Q: Are chimichangas Mexican?
A: No, chimichangas are not traditionally Mexican. They were invented in the United States, likely in an attempt to create a Tex-Mex twist on traditional Mexican cuisine.
Q: How are chimichangas made?
A: Chimichangas are typically made by filling a flour tortilla with meat, beans, cheese, and other toppings, then frying it until it is crispy. They are often served with guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.
Q: Can chimichangas be baked instead of fried?
A: Yes, chimichangas can be baked in the oven instead of fried. This can be a healthier option, as it reduces the amount of oil used in the cooking process.
Q: Are chimichangas vegetarian-friendly?
A: Yes, chimichangas can be made vegetarian by using a filling of beans, cheese, and vegetables instead of meat.
Q: What is the difference between a burrito and a chimichanga?
A: The main difference between a burrito and a chimichanga is that the chimichanga is fried, while the burrito is not. Additionally, chimichangas are often larger and more heavily stuffed than burritos.
Q: Are chimichangas healthy?
A: Chimichangas are typically not considered a healthy food, as they are high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates. However, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped answer your questions about what a fried burrito is called. Next time you’re looking for a tasty and indulgent meal, consider giving a chimichanga a try. Don’t forget to come back to our website for more informative and fun articles!