1. Introduction
Wet burritos are a delightful twist on the classic Mexican burrito, offering a heartier and more savory experience. Originating from Mexican cuisine, they have become a popular dish in many parts of the world, particularly in the United States. Unlike traditional burritos, which are typically served dry, wet burritos are generously topped with a sauce, often enchilada or tomato-based, and then baked. This method not only infuses the burritos with extra flavor but also creates a wonderfully moist and tender texture.
The dish is versatile, allowing for various fillings such as beef, chicken, or vegetables, making it suitable for different dietary preferences. The addition of cheese, both inside and atop the burrito, adds a creamy, rich layer to the dish. Wet burritos are perfect for a comforting dinner, a family gathering, or even as a festive meal during celebrations. They can be customized with different toppings like sour cream, avocado, or salsa, adding freshness and a burst of flavor.
2. Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 4.5 oz diced green chile peppers
- 16 oz refried beans
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 10 oz enchilada sauce
- 15 oz chili no-beans (e.g., Hormel)
- 6 flour burrito tortillas (about 12 inches)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 3 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Additional desired toppings【6†source】.
3. Directions
The preparation of wet burritos involves several steps:
- Preheating: Start by preheating the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Cooking Beef and Onion: In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until the meat is evenly browned and the onion softens.
- Seasoning: Drain any excess grease, then season the beef with garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add green chilies and refried beans, blending well.
- Sauce Preparation: In a separate saucepan, combine tomato sauce, no-bean chili, and enchilada sauce. Whisk and heat the mixture until well-blended and warm.
- Assembling Burritos: Divide the beef and bean mixture into six portions. Place each portion on a tortilla, adding cheese and lettuce if desired. Fold the tortillas, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
- Baking: Place the burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Cover them with sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese melts.
- Garnishing: Finally, garnish with additional lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and dried chives, or other toppings of your choice【7†source】.
4. How to Prepare
To ensure the best results:
- Cook the Beef Thoroughly: Make sure the ground beef is well-cooked and browned for optimal flavor and texture.
- Season Well: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. The garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper should be well balanced to enhance the flavors.
- Sauce Consistency: The sauce should be neither too thick nor too thin. It needs to adequately coat the burritos without making them soggy.
- Proper Folding: Fold the burritos correctly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Cheese Melting: The cheese should be melted and slightly golden on top for a perfect finish.
5. Preparation Time
- Total Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes. This includes preparation and baking time.
6. Servings
- This recipe yields 6 servings, ideal for a family meal.
7. FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken can be substituted for beef.
- How can I make it vegetarian? Skip the meat and add more beans or vegetables.
- Can I freeze wet burritos? Yes, they freeze well. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
- What if I don’t like spicy food? Reduce the amount of chili and choose a mild enchilada sauce.
- Can I prepare these in advance? Yes, you can assemble them ahead and bake just before serving.