The Secrets to Crafting a Truly Outstanding Burrito

When I was in culinary school, we did breakfast burritos that were an excellent seller among our fellow students. We used scrambled eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and salsa. Rolling the flour tortilla up, brushing it with melted butter, and baking it at 350 for about 5 to 10 minutes made a dish that was beloved by our classmates.

Truly Outstanding Burritos

Truly outstanding burritos, you say? First thing's first, thanks for the chance to spill the beans. To make a burrito that truly stands out, follow these tips and secrets:

Flour Tortillas

All good burritos are built on a flour tortilla. A flour tortilla provides the perfect base, offering flavor and a texture that is hard to beat. However, many people overlook that you shouldn't buy your tortillas at the store. Instead, look for fresh, high-quality tortillas or learn how to make them from scratch. Ingredients like lard can make a significant difference.

Traditional vs. Americanized Burritos

Do you want traditional Mexican burritos or the Americanized version found in most "Mexican restaurants"? Traditional burritos are simpler, with meat as the main ingredient and served plain. For a truly amazing burrito, opt for braised beef, such as brisket or short rib, seasoned with red wine, garlic, and lime. Some people use chicken or ground beef, but braised beef will elevate your burrito to the next level.

Refried Beans

The secret to outstanding burritos lies in the beans. Rather than using canned pinto beans, start with dried beans. Soak them overnight, then simmer them in a pressure cooker with smoked hog jowl, chicken and beef stock, onions, and garlic. The key is to blend the mixture until smooth, ensuring the beans are creamy and oily. This results in a rich, flavorful base that enhances your burrito's taste.

Sour Cream and Guacamole

The sour cream and guacamole are the cherry on top. Not just any sour cream will do. Opt for a bag of homemade or high-quality authentic crema, typically from places like Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Ecuador. This fresh, creamy sour cream adds a unique flavor to your burrito. Similarly, making guacamole from scratch is highly recommended. Ingredients include avocados, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, cayenne, cumin, and lime juice. Avoid store-bought guacamole, as it pales in comparison to homemade.

Final Toppings and Assembly

For an exceptional burrito, skip the liquid cheese and opt for fresh toppings. Salsa or pico de gallo can be homemade, or choose a special store-bought variety with smoky chipotle peppers. The key to success is using the best ingredients and giving your burrito a complex flavor profile that celebrates each component.

So there you have it! With these secrets, you can craft a burrito that is truly outstanding. Roll that tortilla up, brush it with melted butter, and bake it until perfectly crispy. Bon appétit!