Delicious Pairings For Bean And Cheese Burritos

Bean and cheese burritos are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. They are a great option for a quick lunch or dinner and can be customised with a variety of toppings and fillings. While the classic combination of refried beans and cheese is a tasty one, there are several ingredients that can be added to elevate this dish.

Some popular additions include salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and hot sauce. For those who want a little extra spice, jalapeños or chilli powder can be added to the bean mixture. If you're looking for a more substantial meal, rice, meat, or eggs can also be included.

The beauty of bean and cheese burritos lies in their versatility. They can be baked in the oven, toasted on a stovetop, or even frozen for a quick meal later on.

How to roll a burrito

There's nothing more frustrating than a burrito that falls apart, so here's a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect roll.

Firstly, choose the right tortilla. You want something that's going to be able to stretch and accommodate your fillings without cracking and breaking. A large flour tortilla is your best bet. To make it even more pliable, warm your tortilla by kissing each side on a hot pan for 30 seconds, or wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 20 seconds.

Now it's time to add your fillings. Place your chosen fillings in a line down the centre of the tortilla, leaving the ends, top and bottom uncovered. Be careful not to overfill—you only want to create a line of filling a couple of inches wide.

Next, fold the sides of the tortilla inwards over the filling. This will prevent the filling from falling out the bottom of your burrito as you eat it. Then, fold the bottom over so it completely covers the filling.

Starting with the bottom flap, roll the burrito, tucking the flap firmly inwards as you go to secure the filling. Continue rolling until your burrito is seam-side down, and it's ready to serve!

Tips:

• To seal your burrito and make it extra toasty, warm it in a toaster oven for a few minutes, or place it seam-side down in a hot skillet and cook until browned and crisp.
• If you want to add some crunch to your bean and cheese burrito, try adding diced onions.
• For a more substantial meal, serve your burrito with a side of Mexican rice.
• If you're making your burrito ahead of time, you can store it in an airtight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for up to a week.

How to store and reheat bean and cheese burritos

Bean and cheese burritos are a delicious meal, but what's the best way to store and reheat them? Here's a detailed guide to help you out:

Storing Bean and Cheese Burritos:

• It is recommended to store leftover burritos in the fridge, and they will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
• To maintain freshness, wrap the burritos in aluminium foil or place them in an airtight container.
• If you want to freeze burritos for later, it's best to let the bean filling cool to room temperature first to avoid sogginess.
• After filling and rolling the burritos, wrap them tightly in foil and store them in a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Reheating Bean and Cheese Burritos:

• There are several methods to reheat your burritos, including using a microwave, oven, stovetop, air fryer, or toaster oven.
• If using a microwave, place the burrito on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 2 minutes, then continue heating in 1-minute intervals until it's thoroughly warmed.
• For an oven, preheat to 225°F (107°C). Wrap the burrito in foil, leaving one end open. Bake for about 30 minutes, then check if it needs more time.
• On a stovetop, heat a skillet with a few drops of oil over medium-low heat. Place the burrito in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for 5 minutes on each side.
• For an air fryer, preheat to 330°F (166°C). Spray the burrito with olive oil or avocado cooking spray for a crispier texture. Heat for about 15 minutes, or until the tortilla is golden brown.
• Using a toaster oven, preheat to 400°F (204°C). Wrap the burrito in foil and toast on high for 8-12 minutes. Then, remove the foil and toast for a few more minutes to crisp up the exterior.

Tips for Reheating:

• If your burrito contains ingredients like sour cream or guacamole, it's best to scoop them out before reheating. Add them back in after the burrito is warmed to maintain their texture and temperature.
• Always ensure your burrito is thoroughly reheated to avoid foodborne illnesses. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 °F (74 °C).
• For frozen burritos, increase the reheating time and temperature. In the microwave, use the defrost setting first, then heat on high for 1-2 minutes. In the oven, heat at 350°F (177°C) for 30-40 minutes.

Now you know how to properly store and reheat your bean and cheese burritos! Enjoy your delicious, warm, and crispy burritos anytime.

The best beans for burritos

When it comes to choosing the best beans for burritos, there are a few factors to consider, including personal preference, availability, and desired texture and flavour. Here is a guide to help you select the perfect beans for your next burrito creation.

Types of Beans

The most commonly used beans for burritos are pinto beans and black beans. Pinto beans are traditionally associated with Tex-Mex or northern Mexican cuisine, such as burritos, and are known for their fatty texture and tasty flavour. Black beans, on the other hand, offer a slightly different flavour and texture, and are also a popular choice for burritos.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with other types of beans, such as red or Peruvian beans, which can add a unique twist to your burrito. Mixing different types of beans can also create an interesting blend of flavours and textures.

Preparing the Beans

The preparation of the beans can also impact the final taste and texture of your burrito. Here are some tips to consider:

• Avoid pre-soaking the beans, as this can affect their ability to absorb flavours from spices and broth during cooking.
• Add spices and seasonings at the beginning of the cooking process to allow the beans to absorb the flavours fully.
• If using canned beans, consider draining and rinsing them before use. You can then sauté the beans with onions, garlic, and various spices to enhance their flavour.
• For a more authentic taste, try making refried beans by mashing the cooked beans and adding some oil to achieve a creamy texture.

Customisation

The beauty of making burritos is that you can customise them to your liking. Here are some ideas to elevate your bean and cheese burritos:

• Tortillas: Choose fresh, warm tortillas that are at least 10 inches in diameter, or "burrito-sized." You can make your own flour tortillas or opt for store-bought ones.
• Cheese: Go for shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for optimal meltiness.
• Toppings: Serve your bean and cheese burritos with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, hot sauce, or Mexican rice.

Storage and Reheating

If you're preparing a large batch of burritos, you can store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 6 months.

To reheat, thaw the burritos in the fridge overnight, then microwave for 2 minutes on high or heat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat them from frozen, but it will take a bit longer, approximately 20-30 minutes.

The best cheese for burritos

There are several types of cheese that go well with burritos, especially when melted. Here are some of the best cheeses for the job:

Cheddar

A sharp, shredded cheddar is a popular choice for bean and cheese burritos. It melts well and has a strong flavour. Cheddar is also versatile and can be mixed with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack to create a unique blend.

Monterey Jack

Monterey Jack is another excellent choice for burritos as it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavour. It is often paired with cheddar to create a delicious mix of cheeses.

Pepper Jack

For those who like a little spice, Pepper Jack cheese is a good option. It has a similar melting quality to Monterey Jack but with a kick of pepper.

Mexican Cheese Blend

A Mexican cheese blend is also a great choice for burritos as it typically includes a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso blanco. This blend creates a rich, creamy flavour that pairs well with the other ingredients in a burrito.

Other Cheeses

Other cheeses that can be used in burritos include mozzarella, Swiss, and Colby Jack. These cheeses melt well and add a creamy texture to the burrito.

When making bean and cheese burritos, it is important to get the right ratio of beans to cheese. Some people prefer a 50/50 ratio, while others may opt for a slightly different proportion. Experimenting with different types of cheese and finding the right balance is part of the fun of making burritos!

What to serve with bean and cheese burritos

Bean and cheese burritos are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that can be served with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some ideas on what to serve with bean and cheese burritos to elevate your meal:

Toppings and Condiments

Bean and cheese burritos can be served with a variety of toppings and condiments to add extra flavour and texture. Here are some options:

• Salsa: A good quality salsa can add a tangy and zesty kick to your burrito. You can use store-bought salsa or make your own fresh pico de gallo.
• Guacamole: Avocado or guacamole adds a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream can help balance the spices and add a tangy, creamy element to your burrito.
• Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, you can replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can bring some extra heat and flavour to your burrito.
• Lettuce: Shredded lettuce adds a crunchy texture and a fresh taste to your burrito.
• Olives: Sliced olives can provide a salty, savoury element to your burrito.
• Tomatoes: Halved grape tomatoes or chopped tomatoes can add a juicy, refreshing touch.
• Cheese: You can sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Sides

There are several side dishes that go well with bean and cheese burritos, including:

• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are a classic side dish to any Mexican meal and can be used for dipping into leftover salsa or guacamole.
• Mexican Rice: Rice is a staple in Mexican cuisine and can be served as a filling side dish to your burritos. You can make it with long-grain rice, spices, and vegetables.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad can complement the heartiness of the burritos. Try a Mexican fiesta salad or a Southwestern salad with avocado ranch dressing.
• Street Corn: Creamy, cheesy street corn is a delicious side dish that will enhance your meal.
• Home Fries: If you're serving breakfast burritos, home fries are a great side dish to complete the meal.

Drinks

To complement your bean and cheese burritos, you can serve a variety of drinks, such as:

• Margaritas: A classic margarita can be the perfect cocktail to pair with your burritos.
• Beer: A cold beer, especially a Mexican lager or a crisp pilsner, can go well with the flavours of the burritos.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea is a refreshing choice, especially if you add a slice of lime.
• Horchata: This traditional Mexican rice milk beverage is sweet, cinnamon-spiced, and pairs perfectly with spicy food.

Feel free to get creative and customise your bean and cheese burritos with your favourite toppings, sides, and drinks!

Frequently asked questions