1 Chimichanga Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese packs a whopping 443 calories. If you're hungry and looking for a satisfying meal, read on. We're going to explore everything you need to know about this delicious Mexican dish.
A Beef and Cheese Chimichanga is made with a flour tortilla filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and sometimes other ingredients like refried beans and rice. It's typically fried to a crisp golden brown and served with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side.
In this article, we'll cover the ingredients of a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, how it's prepared, its nutritional information, serving suggestions, the history of the Chimichanga, the different variations of Chimichangas, the health benefits of eating a Chimichanga, popular restaurants that serve Chimichangas, how to make a healthier version, and the best drinks to pair with it.
The Ingredients of a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
To make a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, you'll need the following ingredients: -1 pound ground beef
-1 onion, chopped
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 tablespoon chili powder
-1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
-8 flour tortillas
-2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
-Oil for deep-frying You can add other ingredients like refried beans and rice for a heartier Chimichanga.
How a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga is Prepared
To prepare a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, follow these steps: -In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
-Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper to the beef and mix well.
-Place a tortilla on a flat surface and add a spoonful of the beef mixture and some shredded cheese to the center. Fold the sides of the tortilla towards the center and roll it up tightly.
-Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
-Carefully place the Chimichanga in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
-Remove the Chimichanga from the oil and drain on a paper towel. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side.
One Beef and Cheese Chimichanga contains the following nutritional information: -calories: 443
-Total Fat: 26g
-Saturated Fat: 10g
-Cholesterol: 78mg
-Sodium: 984mg
-Total Carbohydrates: 30g
-Dietary Fiber: 2g
-Sugars: 3g
-Protein: 21g Keep in mind that this is for one Chimichanga, and serving sizes may vary depending on where you get it from.
Serving Suggestions for a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
Here are some serving suggestions for a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga: -Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
-Top with additional cheese, sour cream, and salsa for extra flavor.
-Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it spicy. Be creative and make it your own!
The History of the Chimichanga
The origin of the Chimichanga is a bit murky, but it's said to have been invented in Tucson, Arizona in the early 1920s. Legend has it that a cook accidentally dropped a burrito in the fryer and exclaimed "chimichanga", which is a Spanish slang word for thingamajig or whatchamacallit. The dish took off and has been a popular Mexican-inspired dish ever since.
The Different Variations of Chimichangas
Chimichangas can have various fillings and toppings depending on the region and restaurant. Here are some common variations: -Shredded chicken with queso
-Bean and cheese
-Seafood with a spicy mayonnaise sauce
-Vegetable with guacamole
-Pork carnitas with verde sauce
-Beef barbacoa with pico de gallo The possibilities are endless!
The Health Benefits of Eating a Chimichanga
While a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga isn't the healthiest meal, it does have some nutritional value. Here are some of the health benefits: -Protein from the ground beef
-Calcium from the cheese
-Fiber from the tortilla and any additional ingredients like beans and vegetables
-Vitamin C from the salsa and guacamole Keep in mind that the frying process can add extra calories and fat, so it's best to enjoy in moderation.
Popular Restaurants That Serve Chimichangas
If you're looking to try a Chimichanga, here are some popular Mexican chain restaurants that serve them: -Taco Bell
-Chipotle
-On the Border
-Moe's Southwest Grill
-Chuy's Local Mexican restaurants may also have their own unique takes on the dish.
How to Make a Healthier Version of a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
If you want to enjoy a Chimichanga without all the extra calories and fat, here are some healthier substitutions: -Use a whole wheat or low-carb tortilla instead of a flour tortilla
-Grill or bake the Chimichanga instead of frying it
-Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
-Add extra vegetables like peppers and zucchini With these modifications, you can still enjoy a delicious Chimichanga without the guilt.
The Best Drinks to Pair with a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga
To balance out the spiciness and richness of a Beef and Cheese Chimichanga, here are some beverages that pair well: -Margarita
-Cerveza (beer)
-Horchata (rice milk drink)
-Lemonade or iced tea Whatever you choose, make sure it's cold and refreshing.
The Chimichanga is a prime example of American-Mexican cuisine. It's a delicious, deep-fried burrito that's become a staple in the Southwest United States. -Marc Matsumoto
Frequently Asked Questions about Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese
1. What is a Chimichanga?
A Chimichanga is a popular Mexican dish that consists of a deep-fried burrito filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and beans.
2. How many calories are in a Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese?
A Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese contains 443 calories on average. However, the number of calories may vary depending on the size, ingredients, and cooking method.
3. Is a Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese healthy?
A Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese is not considered a healthy meal, as it is high in calories, fat, and sodium. Consuming it regularly may increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health problems.
4. What are some alternatives to Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese?
Some healthier options for Mexican food include grilled chicken or fish tacos, vegetable fajitas, and black bean or vegetable enchiladas.
5. Can I make Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese at home?
Yes, you can make Chimichanga with Beef and Cheese at home using a variety of recipes available online or in cookbooks. However, it is important to use healthy ingredients, such as lean meat, whole-grain tortillas, and fresh vegetables, to reduce the calorie and fat content.