Wet Burritos are a delectable and hearty dish, originating from Mexican cuisine but widely popular in various forms across the United States. The recipe typically involves large, soft flour tortillas filled with a generous amount of ingredients, most commonly including seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken. The meat is often cooked with a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion, creating a rich and flavorful base.
Alongside the meat, the burritos are filled with a combination of refried beans, Spanish rice, and sometimes additional elements like sautéed peppers and onions, adding layers of texture and taste. The key characteristic of wet burritos is the sauce that’s poured over them once they are assembled and rolled. This sauce is usually a savory, mildly spicy red enchilada sauce, which is thick, rich, and infused with chili peppers and tomatoes, giving the dish its ‘wet’ quality.
After being drenched in sauce, the burritos are then blanketed with a generous amount of shredded cheese, typically a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar, which melts beautifully when the dish is baked briefly in the oven. This results in a gooey, cheesy top layer that complements the spicy, savory flavors underneath.
Serving wet burritos often includes a garnish of fresh toppings to add freshness and a crisp contrast. Common toppings include chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. These fresh elements cut through the richness of the meat, cheese, and sauce, balancing the dish.
The final product is a large, sumptuous meal, with each burrito covered in sauce and cheese, creating a visually appealing and mouth-watering dish. The blend of textures—from the soft tortilla to the hearty filling and the creamy, melted cheese on top—along with the combination of warm, spicy, and tangy flavors, makes wet burritos a beloved comfort food and a favorite in many households and Mexican eateries.
Ingredients:
For the Burritos:
- 1 pound ground beef or shredded cooked chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 4 large flour tortillas
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Topping (Optional):
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Salsa
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
a. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken until browned.
b. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
c. Stir in the black beans, cooked rice, and shredded cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted.
2. Assemble the Burritos:
a. Spoon the filling into the center of each flour tortilla. Fold in the sides and roll up the burritos.
b. Place the burritos seam side down in a baking dish.
3. Make the Enchilada Sauce:
a. In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
b. Stir in the flour, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
c. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Pour Sauce Over Burritos:
a. Pour the enchilada sauce over the assembled burritos in the baking dish.
5. Bake:
a. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the burritos are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Serve:
a. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the wet burritos with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and salsa.
These wet burritos are a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy!
