Chimichangas: A Delicious Mexican Dish

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious Mexican dish to serve at your next dinner party, look no further than chimichangas! These crispy and golden burritos are filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melted cheese, and are sure to be a hit with your guests. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make chimichangas at home with this easy recipe.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make chimichangas for 4 people:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1/2 tsp. paprika
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp. vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add onion, red bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes.

3. Add refried beans and stir well.

4. Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon 1/4 of the beef mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture. Fold the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then roll the tortilla tightly around the filling.

5. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Place the chimichangas seam-side down and cook until golden brown on all sides.

6. Transfer the chimichangas to a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until crispy and heated through.

7. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or diced tomatoes.

Vegetarian/Vegan Variation

To make a vegetarian version of chimichangas, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked and seasoned black beans or tofu. For a vegan version, you can also omit the cheese and use vegan cheese instead.

Gluten-Free Variation

To make a gluten-free version of chimichangas, you can use gluten-free tortillas or wrap the filling in lettuce leaves instead of tortillas.

Conclusion

Chimichangas are a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican dish that are perfect for a Friday night dinner with friends and family. With this easy recipe, you can make crispy and golden chimichangas at home that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

FAQ

What are chimichangas?

Chimichangas are a popular Mexican dish consisting of a flour tortilla filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, and vegetables, then deep-fried until crispy.

What ingredients do I need to make chimichangas?

To make chimichangas, you will need flour tortillas, cooked and seasoned meat (such as chicken or beef), shredded cheese, refried beans, and oil for frying. Optional ingredients include salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for serving.

Can I make chimichangas ahead of time?

Yes, you can make chimichangas ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until ready to cook. To reheat, place them in the oven or fryer until heated through and crispy.

Can I bake chimichangas instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake chimichangas instead of frying them for a healthier option. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and heated through.

Can I use a different type of tortilla for chimichangas?

Yes, you can use a different type of tortilla for chimichangas, such as corn tortillas or even spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas for added flavor.

Can I use a different type of meat for chimichangas?

Yes, you can use a different type of meat for chimichangas, such as pork or shrimp. Vegetarian options include using tofu or portobello mushrooms as a meat substitute.

How do I fold the tortilla for chimichangas?

To fold the tortilla for chimichangas, place the filling in the center of the tortilla, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom of the tortilla up and over the filling, and roll tightly to create a burrito-like shape.

How do I prevent the chimichangas from getting soggy?

To prevent chimichangas from getting soggy, make sure the filling is not too wet and drain any excess liquid before wrapping the tortillas. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to create a crispy exterior.

Can I make chimichangas without meat?

Yes, you can make chimichangas without meat by using beans, cheese, and vegetables as the filling. You can also add rice for a heartier vegetarian option.

How do I serve chimichangas?

To serve chimichangas, top with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream, and serve with a side of Mexican rice and beans. Enjoy!