Spicy Beef and Bean Burritos
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a blend
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
- Guacamole, for serving (optional)
- Salsa, for serving (optional)
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add the black beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth to the skillet.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Warm the flour tortillas according to package directions. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll. You can warm them in a dry skillet, in the microwave, or in the oven.
8. Place a tortilla on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the beef and bean mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
9. Top with about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
10. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll tightly to form a burrito.
11. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
12. Serve immediately with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and hot sauce, if desired.
Beef Selection and Preparation
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
The type of ground beef you select dramatically influences the final taste and texture. A good balance between flavor and leanness is key.
An 80/20 blend, which is 80% lean beef and 20% fat, is often recommended for burritos.
The fat content adds richness and helps keep the beef moist during cooking.
If you prefer leaner beef, you can use a 90/10 blend, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
Perfecting the Browning Process
Browning the ground beef properly is essential for developing deep, savory flavors. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the beef to steam instead of brown.
Work in batches if necessary.
Use a high heat and let the beef sit undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring. This allows a nice crust to form.
Drain off any excess grease after browning to prevent a greasy final product.
Seasoning for Maximum Flavor
Don’t be afraid to be generous with your seasonings. The chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper are crucial for creating that signature spicy flavor.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to achieve your desired level of heat and depth of flavor.
Consider adding a pinch of oregano or a dash of garlic powder for extra complexity.
Bean Combinations and Alternatives
The Magic of Black and Pinto Beans
The combination of black beans and pinto beans provides a great balance of textures and flavors. Black beans offer a slightly earthy and smoky flavor, while pinto beans are creamy and mild.
This combination is a classic in Southwestern cuisine and works perfectly in burritos.
Exploring Other Bean Varieties
While black and pinto beans are a popular choice, you can certainly experiment with other types of beans.
Kidney beans, great northern beans, or even cannellini beans can be used to create a unique flavor profile.
Consider adding a small amount of refried beans for extra creaminess.
Vegetarian Options and Substitutions
For a vegetarian version of this recipe, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or a vegetable substitute like crumbled tempeh or sautéed mushrooms.
You can also add corn for extra sweetness and texture.
Consider using vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain a vegetarian dish.
Tortilla Selection, Rolling, and Sealing
Choosing the Right Tortilla Size and Type
The size of your tortilla will determine how much filling you can add and how easy it is to roll.
Large (10-12 inch) flour tortillas are generally recommended for burritos, as they provide ample space for the filling.
You can also experiment with different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or spinach tortillas, for added flavor and nutrition.
Warming Tortillas for Optimal Flexibility
Warming the tortillas before rolling is crucial for preventing them from tearing.
This makes them more pliable and easier to work with.
You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat, in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel), or in the oven (wrapped in foil).
Mastering the Art of Rolling a Burrito
To roll a burrito properly, start by placing the filling in the center of the tortilla.
Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then fold the bottom up and over the filling.
Tuck the bottom fold tightly around the filling and roll forward, keeping the sides tucked in as you go.
This creates a tight, secure burrito that won’t fall apart.
Toppings, Sides, and Serving Suggestions
Elevating Your Burrito Experience with Toppings
The toppings are what truly make a burrito your own. Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and hot sauce are classic choices that add flavor, moisture, and spice.
Consider adding other toppings such as shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, diced onions, or pickled jalapeños.
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor.
Complementary Side Dishes
Complete your burrito meal with a variety of side dishes. Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple salad are all great options.
You can also serve tortilla chips and salsa or a side of queso dip.
Consider a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer to complement the spicy flavors.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve the burritos immediately after rolling for the best flavor and texture.
If you’re not serving them right away, you can wrap them individually in foil and keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) for a short period.
Leftover burritos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or skillet.
Customization and Flavor Variations
Adjusting the Spice Level
One of the great things about this recipe is that you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference.
If you like it mild, omit the jalapeño pepper and reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper.
For extra heat, add more jalapeño pepper, cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Consider using a spicier chili powder blend.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Incorporating more vegetables into your burritos is a great way to boost their nutritional value.
Sautéed bell peppers, onions, corn, zucchini, or spinach can all be added to the filling.
Consider adding diced tomatoes or shredded lettuce as toppings.
Exploring Different Protein Options
While ground beef is a classic choice, you can experiment with other protein options.
Shredded chicken, pulled pork, steak, or even chorizo can be used to create a unique flavor profile.
For a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled tempeh, sautéed mushrooms, or black bean burgers.
FAQ
How can I prevent my burritos from being soggy?
Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the beef and bean mixture before filling the tortillas. Avoid overfilling the burritos. Use a good quality tortilla that is not too thin.
Can I freeze these burritos for later?
Yes, these burritos freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave, bake, or pan-fry until heated through.
What kind of cheese works best in burritos?
Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or a blend of the two are all great choices for burritos. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicier flavor.
How do I warm tortillas properly?
There are several ways to warm tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds, or in the oven wrapped in foil at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the beef and bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the burritos, simply warm the mixture and fill the tortillas.
