How to Make a Bean and Cheese Burrito: A Step-by-Step Guide
A delicious bean and cheese burrito is a staple of Mexican cuisine, and with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any time of day. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making the perfect bean and cheese burrito, from start to finish.
Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients and equipment you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked black beans (or pinto beans, kidney beans, or a combination)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 inch flour tortilla
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Equipment:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Spoon or spatula for assembling burrito
- Cutting knife for optional toppings
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
The first step in making your bean and cheese burrito is to prepare the beans. If you’re using canned beans, drain and rinse them with water. If you’re cooking dried beans, follow the package instructions for cooking time and method.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Cumin and Beans
Add the cumin to the pan and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Then, add the cooked beans to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the beans are coated with the onion and garlic mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Burrito
To assemble the burrito, place a large flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon the bean and onion mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bean and onion mixture. You can use as much or as little cheese as you like, depending on your personal preference.
Step 6: Add Optional Toppings
If desired, add your choice of optional toppings, such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, or salsa. Be careful not to overload the burrito with too many toppings, as this can make it difficult to roll and fold.
Step 7: Roll and Fold the Burrito
To roll and fold the burrito, start by folding the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and finally roll the burrito away from you. You can use a bit of pressure to compress the filling as you roll, but be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this can cause the filling to spill out.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your bean and cheese burrito to the next level:
- Use different types of beans: While black beans are a classic choice, you can also use pinto beans, kidney beans, or a combination of different types of beans.
- Add some heat: If you like a little spice, you can add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the bean and onion mixture for an extra kick.
- Get creative with toppings: While traditional toppings like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes are always a good choice, you can also get creative with other toppings, such as diced bell peppers, sliced olives, or crumbled bacon.
- Make it a meal: Serve your bean and cheese burrito with a side of rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a filling meal.
Conclusion
Making a bean and cheese burrito is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner, a bean and cheese burrito is a great choice. So go ahead, get creative, and start rolling!