Tacos and burritos start with a tortilla and a seasoned filling, such as ground beef, shredded chicken, beans, or vegetables. Toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa, and sour cream are added to taste. Tacos are usually folded and eaten by hand, while burritos are rolled up with the filling tucked inside.

Unlike casseroles and curries, the meal is assembled at the table, so everyone can make their own. The fillings are usually quick to cook, much like a stir-fry, and they keep well for leftovers. Rice and beans are common additions to burritos.

Questions folks ask

What is the difference between a taco and a burrito?

A taco is a smaller tortilla folded around a filling. A burrito is a larger tortilla with the sides tucked in and rolled closed.

How do I keep tortillas from breaking?

Warm them first until soft and pliable. Keep them covered in a towel so they stay warm.

Can I make burritos ahead?

Yes. Wrap them tightly and keep them in the fridge, or freeze them. Reheat until hot all the way through.

Kitchen tips

Warm tortillas in a dry pan or wrapped in foil in the oven so they bend without cracking.
Season the filling well, and taste before serving.
Set out toppings in small bowls and let everyone build their own.
Do not overfill burritos, or they will be hard to roll.
Fold in the sides first when rolling a burrito, then roll from the bottom.