Everyone who enjoys Mexican food is familiar with the flavorful burrito. Convenient for those on the go and available with a variety of tasty fillings, burritos are such an essential item at any Mexican restaurant that it’s difficult to imagine a time before they existed. The informative guide below explores the fascinating history of burritos.

Possible Origins

The name burrito stems from the word burro, which means donkey. There are several stories about the first burrito, but unfortunately, there is no way to verify their accuracy.

One theory poses that 19th century vaqueros (cowboys) from Sorona stuffed and folded flour tortillas into what is now known as a burrito to carry around in their saddlebags. The endearing name burrito referred to the dish’s status as a horse’s sidekick, similar to a donkey. 

Another charming story tells of a man named Juan Méndez from Chihuahua, who sold street tacos while traveling by donkey during the Mexican Revolution. Legend says that he would wrap his food in a flour tortilla to keep it warm, creating the burrito.

Transformations

However they came to be, burritos underwent many cross-cultural transformations over time. Tortillas and tamales were already popular and practical staples for the Aztecs long before the burrito. When Spanish conquistadors arrived, they began adding beef, chicken, cheese, and other familiar ingredients to Mexican food.

After the invention of the burrito, vendors and families threw in ingredients like rice, vegetables, sauce, and beans to make it a full meal. These fillings were affordable, readily available, and best of all, tasty.

As Mexican migrant workers arrived in the United States throughout the mid-20th century, Americans quickly learned to love the dish. Mexican food first became well-known in Southern California.

Once culinary technology allowed for burritos to be frozen and stored, the convenient and long-lasting dish hit the frozen food aisles of every grocery store and became a nationwide phenomenon. Different cultures and restaurants throughout the country added their own takes to recipes, giving rise to iterations like breakfast burritos, filled with eggs, bacon, and potatoes, and California burritos, stuffed with carne asada, french fries, guacamole, pico de gallo, and cheese.

Modern Variations

Burritos are still beloved across the United States today, likely due to how versatile, portable, and customizable they are. Ground beef remains one of the most popular fillings, but other notable options include carnitas, chile relleno, carne asada, beans and cheese, and shredded chicken. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat-lover, or trying to eat healthy, there’s a burrito for everyone.

Now that you know the history, come get your own burrito at Ono Loco Tacos. Located in Wahiawa, HI, this taqueria serves a delicious selection of Mexican food favorites like enchiladas, shrimp tacos, and carne asada. From breakfast through dessert, the family-friendly restaurant offers authentic tastes, quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere. Browse their full menu online, or call (808) 376-8996 to place an order. Follow them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to receive up-to-date information on specials and deals.