Chimichanga
A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito, typically made with a flour tortilla filled with ingredients such as meat, beans, rice, and cheese.
A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito, typically made with a flour tortilla filled with ingredients such as meat, beans, rice, and cheese. It is commonly associated with Tex-Mex and Southwestern U.S. cuisine, and is often served with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. Canadian restaurants and grocery stores commonly feature chimichangas as part of Tex-Mex dining, and the dish is familiar to Canadian readers through North American casual dining menus.
Description
A chimichanga is a filled flour tortilla that is folded, then deep-fried until crisp. Dictionary and food references describe it as a deep-fried or fried burrito.
Ingredients and preparation
Common fillings include rice, beans, cheese, shredded chicken, pork, or other meat. The filled tortilla is typically rolled or folded into a rectangular package before frying.
Origin and history
The dish is widely linked to the United States, especially Arizona, and is often described as a Tex-Mex specialty. Its precise origin and creator are disputed, with multiple restaurants and local traditions claiming it.
Serving and variations
Chimichangas are frequently topped or served with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or cheese. Recipes and restaurant versions vary by region and kitchen.
Key facts
- A chimichanga is essentially a burrito that is deep-fried.
- It is commonly made with a flour tortilla and fillings such as rice, beans, cheese, and meat.
- The dish is associated with Tex-Mex and Southwestern U.S. cuisine.
- Food historians and popular sources commonly place its origin in the United States, often Arizona, but the exact origin is disputed.
- It is often served with condiments such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or cheese.
Canadian restaurants and grocery stores commonly feature chimichangas as part of Tex-Mex dining, and the dish is familiar to Canadian readers through North American casual dining menus.
Frequently asked questions
What is a chimichanga?
What is inside a chimichanga?
Is a chimichanga Mexican or American?
Where did the chimichanga come from?
How is a chimichanga served?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ChimichangaSupports: Defines chimichanga as a deep-fried burrito and describes common fillings, cuisine associations, and serving accompaniments.
- Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chimichangaSupports: Dictionary definition of chimichanga as a tortilla wrapped around a filling and deep-fried.
- Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/chimichangaSupports: Definition describing a folded flour tortilla filled with rice, beans, cheese, or meat and fried.
- Dictionary.com — https://www.dictionary.com/browse/chimichangaSupports: Definition describing a crisp, often deep-fried tortilla with a spicy filling.
- Britannica Dictionary — https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/chimichangaSupports: Definition of chimichanga as a tortilla wrapped around a filling and deep-fried.
- Food Network — https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/what-is-a-chimichangaSupports: Explains the dish as a deep-fried burrito and notes its disputed Arizona origin.