Beef Burritos in a Hurry

Quick and Easy Beef Burritos Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef Burritos in a Hurry is a delightful recipe that promises a burst of flavors and textures, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you're craving something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines the richness of roast beef with the freshness of cilantro and salsa, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a favorite among families and individuals alike.

History

The concept of the burrito, a tortilla wrapped around a filling, has its roots in Mexican cuisine, dating back to the early 1900s. However, the Beef Burritos in a Hurry recipe is a modern twist on the traditional dish, designed for convenience and speed without compromising on taste. It incorporates ingredients like canned roast gravy and pre-cooked roast beef to cut down on cooking time, making it an ideal solution for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 (12 oz (340 g)) cans of roast beef with gravy
2 beaten eggs
1.5 tbsp of butter
2 canned long green chilies, cut julienne
0.5 cup of green chili salsa
0.5 cup of chopped cilantro leaves
6 flour tortillas, heated just until warm
leaf lettuce
Fresh tomato salsa

How to prepare

Drain the gravy from the roast beef and set it aside for later use.
Shred the meat and set it aside.
In a small skillet, scramble the eggs in butter.
Stir in the shredded beef, chilies, green chili salsa, and cilantro leaves.
Line each flour tortilla with a lettuce leaf, ensuring that the tip of each leaf extends out of the tortilla.
Fill the tortillas with the beef mixture and roll them up, tucking in one end while leaving the other end exposed.
Spoon a small amount of fresh tomato salsa on top of each tortilla and serve additional salsa on the side.

Variations

Consider these variations to keep the recipe exciting:
Use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add beans or corn to the filling for extra texture and nutrition.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with grilled vegetables or tofu.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Beef Burritos in a Hurry turn out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Warm the tortillas before assembling the burritos to make them more pliable and prevent tearing.

- Drain the roast beef gravy well to avoid a soggy filling.

- Customize the heat level by choosing mild or spicy salsa according to your preference.

- For a crispy texture, you can briefly pan-fry the assembled burritos before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Beef Burritos with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and extra salsa for added flavor and texture. A side salad or Mexican rice can also complement the burritos well.

Cooking Techniques

For an extra crispy burrito, after assembling, lightly brush the burritos with oil and bake in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, you can grill them on a panini press for a quick and crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned roast gravy, you can use beef broth thickened with a little flour or cornstarch as a substitute. Fresh chilies can replace canned ones for a fresher taste.

Make Ahead Tips

The beef mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply warm the mixture, assemble the burritos, and serve.

Presentation Ideas

For an appealing presentation, cut the burritos in half diagonally and arrange them on a plate with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top. Serve with lime wedges for a fresh touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Beef Burritos in a Hurry with a light, crisp beer or a margarita for a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the burritos. A non-alcoholic option could be a chilled glass of limeade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Beef Burritos in a Hurry contains approximately 400-500 calories, making it a hearty meal option. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of butter and use leaner cuts of beef.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Beef Burritos in a Hurry contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the tortillas and the salsa. Opting for whole wheat tortillas can increase the fiber content and make it a more balanced option.

Fats

The fat content in this recipe comes mainly from the roast beef, butter, and eggs. Each serving contains about 15-20 grams of fat. To reduce the fat content, you can use lean roast beef and a butter substitute.

Proteins

Beef Burritos in a Hurry are a good source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 25-30 grams of protein, thanks to the roast beef and eggs. This makes it a satisfying meal that can help keep you full for longer.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the lettuce and cilantro, Vitamin C from the salsa, and iron and zinc from the roast beef. It's a nutritious meal that contributes to a balanced diet.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the tortillas) and eggs. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free tortillas.

Summary

Overall, Beef Burritos in a Hurry offer a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious meal that can be adjusted to meet dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Beef Burritos in a Hurry is a versatile, delicious, and nutritious meal that's perfect for those times when you need something quick and satisfying. With its rich flavors, customizable ingredients, and simple preparation, it's sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Beef Burritos in a Hurry. It was a brisk autumn day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new and exciting to try for dinner. As I sifted through the index cards and clippings, my eyes fell upon a worn piece of paper with a scribbled recipe for beef burritos.

I had never made burritos before, let alone a version that promised to be quick and easy. But something about the simplicity of the ingredients and the promise of a delicious meal in a short amount of time piqued my interest. I knew I had to give it a try.

The recipe called for ground beef, onions, bell peppers, cheese, and tortillas. It seemed like a straightforward enough list, so I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I browned the beef and sautéed the onions and peppers, the aromas that filled the air were intoxicating. I could already tell that this was going to be a hit with my family.

Once everything was cooked and ready to assemble, I spooned the beef mixture onto the tortillas, sprinkled cheese on top, and rolled them up tightly. I then placed them in a baking dish, drizzled some enchilada sauce over them, and popped them in the oven to bake. In no time at all, the burritos were golden brown and bubbling with melted cheese.

As I took the first bite of the Beef Burritos in a Hurry, I was transported to a world of flavor and satisfaction. The beef was perfectly seasoned, the vegetables were tender-crisp, and the cheese added a creamy richness that tied everything together. Each bite was a symphony of textures and tastes, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

I couldn't wait to share this newfound gem with my family and friends. The next time my grandchildren came over for dinner, I served them the Beef Burritos in a Hurry, and their eyes lit up with excitement. They devoured the burritos with gusto, asking for seconds and raving about how delicious they were.

My grandchildren begged me for the recipe, and I gladly shared it with them, explaining how I had stumbled upon it and how easy it was to make. They were thrilled to have a new dish to add to their own culinary adventures, and I was happy to pass on the tradition of delicious home-cooked meals.

Over the years, the Beef Burritos in a Hurry became a favorite in our family. It was a go-to meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, and gatherings with friends. I loved the way it brought us all together around the table, sharing good food and even better company.

As I look back on that fateful day when I discovered the recipe for Beef Burritos in a Hurry, I am filled with gratitude for the joy and memories it has brought into our lives. It's a testament to the power of curiosity and the simple pleasures of a homemade meal made with love.

And so, I continue to treasure this recipe, along with the many others that have shaped my culinary journey. Each dish tells a story, carries a memory, and brings people together in a shared experience of food and fellowship. I am grateful for the gift of cooking and the joy it brings to my heart and soul. And I look forward to many more delicious adventures in the kitchen, each one a new discovery waiting to be made.