Burritos are an undeniable staple of Mexican cuisine. However, do you know anything about their history? Here’s a look back at the origins of this classic meal that’s sure to get your stomach rumbling. It’s filled with facts that would be perfect for sharing with friends the next time you’re at a Mexican restaurant. 

Early History of the Burrito

Aztec Roots

Hundreds of years before the burrito’s explosion in popularity, the Aztecs were already adept at using tortillas in their cuisine. They would stuff tortillas and tamales and steam them, making a tasty meal that was portable and stayed fresh for a long time.

Unfortunately, the early proliferation of this meal is also associated with the downfall of the Aztec people. Hernan Cortes, a Spanish conquistador, was so enamored with the creation that he demanded them to be given to his soldiers as a sign of surrender once the Aztecs were conquered. After that, the Spanish added more ingredients to the mix, including chicken, cheese, and beef. 

How the Burrito Got Its Name

No one fully knows how the name “burrito” came to be. There are several theories on the subject. For example, it might have been named after a prolific vendor who sold them from a donkey’s back. It might also come from a northwestern state in Mexico name Sonora, where people named the burrito after a donkey or “burro” because it’s easy to travel with.

Burritos in the United States

The 1950s

The meal didn’t start to hit the mainstream in the United States until the 1950s. An influx of migrant workers saw Mexican cuisine becoming more and more widespread. The workers’ bosses would often make their crews burritos for lunch because of the meal’s portability. This greatly increased the interest of Americans in the cuisine. Once frozen burritos were developed, the meal spread throughout the country, not just in its initial region of Southern California.

The Mission Burrito 

The burritos that gained popularity during the 50s and 60s were fairly thin. That all changed, however, when a restaurant in the Mission of San Francisco rethought the meal. The restaurant packed their version with salsa, meat, corn, and enough other ingredients until the tortilla practically burst. This “Mission tortilla” quickly became a hit and was further popularized by chain restaurants during the coming decades.

Now that you’re hungry, The Taco Spot in Chandler, AZ, is ready to whip up some scrumptious Mexican cuisine for you. The restaurant’s recipes have been refined over generations, becoming perfected in the process. From crisp tortilla chips to chicken, beef, or shrimp tacos and burritos, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. Call (480) 238-1251 to speak with a friendly representative today.