Introduction
If you are in the mood for something deliciously satisfying, look no further than this recipe for crispy chimichangas. These golden-brown burritos are packed with flavorful beef, beans, and cheese, making them a hit for any meal. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
8 burrito-size flour tortillas
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
8 chimichangas
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Add the ground beef, chili powder, cumin, oregano, onion powder, and salt. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Stir in the refried beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Warm the flour tortillas to make them pliable.
6. Place a portion of the beef mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to form a burrito shape.
8. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down into the skillet.
9. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning as needed.
10. Remove the chimichangas from the oil and drain on paper towels.
11. Serve hot with your choice of toppings: salsa, extra shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, and sour cream.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef, chili powder, cumin, oregano, onion powder, and salt to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
Step 4: Incorporate Beans and Tomatoes
Stir in the refried beans and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook the mixture until it is heated through, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
In a separate pan or microwave, warm the flour tortillas just until they are pliable and easy to fold.
Step 6: Fill the Tortillas
Place a generous portion of the beef mixture onto the center of each warm tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Roll the Burritos
Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly to form a burrito shape. Ensure the seam is on the bottom.
Step 8: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking, checking with a small piece of tortilla to see if it sizzles.
Step 9: Fry the Chimichangas
Carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the hot oil. Fry them until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning as needed to ensure even cooking.
Step 10: Drain the Chimichangas
Once they are golden and crispy, remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 11: Serve with Toppings
Serve the chimichangas hot, accompanied by your choice of toppings such as salsa, extra shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, and sour cream.
Notes
Note 1: Adjust Spice Levels
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and other seasonings according to your taste preferences for spiciness.
Note 2: Alternate Cooking Methods
For a healthier alternative, consider baking the chimichangas instead of frying. Brush them with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until golden.
Note 3: Storage Instructions
Leftover chimichangas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This technique is used for the onion and garlic to enhance their flavors before adding the ground beef.
Browning
Browning is a technique used to develop flavor through the Maillard reaction by cooking ground beef until it turns a deep brown color. This step is crucial for adding richness to the dish.
Mixing
Mixing involves thoroughly combining ingredients, like the spices, refried beans, and diced tomatoes. This helps to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Warming tortillas
Warming tortillas makes them more pliable, making it easier to roll them without breaking. This can be done in a skillet or microwave for quick use.
Frying
Frying is a cooking method that uses hot oil to create a crispy exterior on the chimichangas. Care should be taken to control the temperature of the oil to avoid burning.
Draining
Draining is important to remove excess oil after frying. This is typically done by placing the fried chimichangas on paper towels to absorb the oil.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor or dietary preference.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
Corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps can be used as alternatives if you’re looking for a gluten-free option or a lighter wrap.
How do I make chimichangas healthier?
To make them healthier, consider baking the chimichangas instead of frying them, and use lean meat or add more vegetables to the filling.
Can I freeze chimichangas?
Yes, chimichangas can be frozen. Assemble them, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in the freezer. They can be cooked directly from frozen or thawed before frying or baking.
How can I customize the toppings?
You can customize the toppings based on your preferences. Possible options include avocado, jalapeños, diced onions, or different types of cheese.
Conclusion
This delicious chimichanga recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying meal that is both crispy and savory. With a filling of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and cheese, each bite is a delightful experience. Serve these chimichangas hot and topped with your favorite garnishes for a comforting dish that will please any crowd.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Chimichangas
Substitute ground beef with a mixture of sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
Chicken Chimichangas
Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef, and add some diced bell peppers for extra flavor.
Spicy Jambalaya Chimichangas
Incorporate cooked sausage, shrimp, and rice with Cajun spices for a unique twist on the traditional chimichanga.
Breakfast Chimichangas
Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and hash browns, then fry for a delightful breakfast treat.
Mushroom and Spinach Chimichangas
Sauté mushrooms and baby spinach together, then mix with cheese for a rich, earthy filling.
BBQ Beef Chimichangas
Mix shredded beef with barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy variation that pairs well with coleslaw as a topping.
