Avocado Wraps
Delicious Avocado Wraps Recipe from Mexico
Introduction
Avocado Wraps are a delightful and nutritious option for any meal of the day. This recipe combines the creamy texture of California avocados with the hearty flavor of ranch-style beans, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla and sprinkled with Monterrey Jack cheese. It's a simple, yet satisfying dish that caters to both vegetarians and those looking for a meat-free meal option. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, these avocado wraps are easy to make and are sure to please everyone at the table.
History
The Avocado Wrap, as we know it today, has its roots in the fusion of Mexican and Californian cuisine. Avocados, a staple in Mexican food, were introduced to California in the 19th century. Over time, the state became a leading producer of avocados in the United States. The combination of avocados with ranch-style beans and cheese in a tortilla wrap is a relatively modern invention, reflecting the growing trend towards healthier, plant-based meals that are both easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 california avocados
- 1 can of ranch style beans
- 1 cup of shredded Monterrey jack cheese
- 6 flour or corn tortillas
How to prepare
- Peel and slice the California avocados lengthwise.
- Heat up the ranch style beans on the stove top.
- Heat up two tortillas at a time in damp paper towels in the microwave. 20 to 30 seconds should heat them nicely.
- Place the drained beans in the tortilla. Top with cheese and avocado.
- Fold the tortilla in half. While Heribertos can be wrapped like burritos and eaten by hand, we just fold them in half and use a fork!.
Variations
- For those looking to experiment, there are several variations to the Avocado Wrap recipe:
- Add grilled chicken or beef for a protein boost.
- Include fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Swap out ranch-style beans for black beans or refried beans based on preference.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Avocado Wraps turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:
- Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture. They should yield to gentle pressure without being mushy.
- Warm the tortillas with damp paper towels in the microwave to make them more pliable and prevent them from breaking when you fold them.
- Drain the ranch-style beans well to avoid making the wraps soggy.
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lime juice or cilantro on top of the avocado before wrapping.
Serving Suggestions
Avocado Wraps can be served with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor. A fresh salad or a serving of Spanish rice also pairs well with these wraps for a more filling meal.
Cooking Techniques
The key techniques in preparing Avocado Wraps involve properly heating the tortillas to make them pliable and layering the ingredients for the best combination of flavors and textures. Gentle heating of the beans and careful slicing of the avocados are also important to the dish's overall quality.
Ingredient Substitutions
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, consider the following substitutions:
- Use gluten-free tortillas to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Substitute vegan cheese to make the dish vegan.
- Replace ranch-style beans with another type of bean if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
The components of Avocado Wraps can be prepared ahead of time for quick assembly. The beans can be heated and stored in a container, the cheese shredded, and the avocados sliced shortly before serving to prevent browning.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the wraps on a colorful plate with a side of salsa or guacamole for a visually appealing presentation. Garnishing with a sprig of cilantro or a lime wedge can also enhance the dish's appearance.
Pairing Recommendations
A light, crisp white wine or a citrusy beer can complement the flavors of the Avocado Wraps. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling limeade or iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover wraps in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to two days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each Avocado Wrap serving contains about 400 calories. This makes it a substantial meal that can fit into a balanced diet, especially if served with a side of vegetables or a salad.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Avocado Wrap contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the tortillas and the beans. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good option for a meal that will keep you fueled for hours.
Fats
Avocado Wraps are relatively high in healthy fats, primarily due to the avocados and cheese. A single serving contains about 22 grams of fat. The majority of the fat from avocados is monounsaturated, which is beneficial for heart health.
Proteins
This dish provides a moderate amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams. The protein comes from the cheese and the beans, making it a great vegetarian source of this essential nutrient.
Vitamins and minerals
Avocado Wraps are rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin K, Vitamin C, potassium, and folate, thanks to the avocados. They also provide calcium and iron, which come from the cheese and beans, respectively.
Alergens
The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (from the cheese) and gluten (from the tortillas). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.
Summary
Overall, Avocado Wraps are a balanced meal option, providing a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
Summary
Avocado Wraps offer a delicious and nutritious option for a quick and easy meal. With their combination of creamy avocados, hearty beans, and melted cheese, wrapped in a soft tortilla, they're sure to become a favorite. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with variations, these wraps are versatile enough to suit any taste.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was in a small, quaint cookbook that I found at a local yard sale. The cover was worn and faded, but inside were pages filled with mouth-watering dishes from around the world. As I flipped through the pages, one recipe caught my eye - Avocado Wraps.
Growing up, I had never heard of avocados, let alone tasted one. But something about the simplicity and freshness of this recipe intrigued me. I knew I had to try it.
I decided to make the Avocado Wraps for a family gathering we were hosting that weekend. I gathered the ingredients - ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tangy limes. As I began to prepare the filling, I couldn't help but think back to all the different recipes I had learned over the years.
I learned to cook from my mother, who learned from her mother, and so on. Each generation passing down their favorite recipes and cooking tips. I remember watching my grandmother in the kitchen, her hands moving with precision as she whipped up traditional dishes from our homeland.
As I mashed the avocados and squeezed the limes, I felt a connection to my ancestors, as if they were guiding me through the recipe. I added a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper, tasting as I went along until the flavors were just right.
Next, I assembled the wraps - spreading the creamy avocado mixture onto soft tortillas, topping it with diced tomatoes and shredded lettuce. I rolled them up tightly, sealing in all the delicious ingredients.
As the wraps baked in the oven, the aroma of fresh ingredients filled the kitchen. I could hear the chatter of my family members as they arrived, excited to taste what I had prepared.
When the wraps were ready, I brought them to the table and watched as everyone took their first bite. The flavors exploded in their mouths, the creamy avocado blending perfectly with the crisp vegetables and tangy lime. It was a hit.
From that day on, Avocado Wraps became a staple in our family gatherings. Whenever I made them, memories of that first time I tried the recipe flooded back to me. It was a reminder of how food can not only nourish our bodies but also connect us to our past.
Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. Sometimes I would add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal, or swap out the tomatoes for mango salsa for a tropical twist. Each time I made the wraps, they brought joy and comfort to those around me.
As I grew older, I realized that cooking was more than just following a recipe. It was a way to express love and creativity, to create memories that would last a lifetime. And with each dish I made, I felt closer to my heritage and the generations of women who had come before me.
Now, as I pass down the recipe for Avocado Wraps to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same connection to their roots as I did. I hope that they will cherish the traditions and flavors that have been passed down to them, and continue to create new memories with each bite.
So next time you make Avocado Wraps, remember the story behind the recipe. Remember the generations of women who have lovingly prepared it before you. And most importantly, savor each bite, knowing that you are not just eating a meal, but a piece of history.
Categories
| Avocado Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Corn Recipes | Hass Avocado Recipes | Jack Cheese Recipes | Mexican Recipes |