An Irish burrito is a take on a traditional burrito that incorporates Irish and Mexican flavors and ingredients. While the origins of the Irish burrito are unclear, it has become a popular item at many Irish pubs and restaurants, especially around St. Patrick’s Day.
What are the key ingredients in an Irish burrito?
The key ingredients that set an Irish burrito apart from a regular burrito include:
- Corned beef – Thinly sliced, flavorful corned beef is a quintessential Irish ingredient. It provides a salty, robust meatiness.
- Cabbage – Finely shredded green cabbage adds crunch and balances the richness of the corned beef.
- Potatoes – Diced, roasted potatoes are an iconic Irish side. They provide hearty substance.
- Cheese – Irish cheddar or a Mexican cheese like queso fresco complement the other ingredients.
- Salsa – A tomato-based salsa kicks up the spice and acidity.
- Guacamole – Cool, creamy guacamole acts as a cooling contrast to the hot salsa.
- Crema – Tangy Mexican crema ties everything together.
- Seasonings – The burrito filling is generally seasoned with garlic, onion, cumin, oregano and other Mexican spices.
In addition to these fillings, an Irish burrito is wrapped up in a large flour tortilla and often grilled or toasted to meld the flavors. The finished burrito contains the heartiness of an Irish dish blended with the vibrant spicing of Mexican cuisine.
What are some variations on the Irish burrito?
While the classic filling is corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes, some restaurants put an Irish spin on the burrito with other ingredients, such as:
- Reuben-inspired fillings with sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing, and Swiss cheese
- Braised lamb, carrots, parsnips, and Guinness gravy
- Roasted chicken, peas, bacon, and cheddar cheese sauce
- Bangers (Irish sausages) and mashed potatoes with onion gravy
- Beer-battered fish, tartar sauce, and french fries
- Shepherd’s pie inspired fillings with ground beef, onions, carrots, peas, and mashed potatoes
Thevariations combine classic Irish pub food with Mexican spices and components like guacamole, salsa, rice, beans, and tortillas. The fusion of flavors and textures is what makes the Irish burrito unique.
What is the history of the Irish burrito?
The origins of the Irish burrito are murky. Some reports trace it back to Irish immigrants in America looking for a taste of home. The Irish in the Southwest may have been the first to think to stuff corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes into a tortilla.
Others theorize the dish originated in Ireland and was inspired by migrating Mexicans bringing burritos and Mexican food to the country. The Irish liked the concept but wanted to make it their own with local ingredients.
| Year | Irish Burrito Milestone |
|---|---|
| Early 1980s | Earliest rumored origins of the Irish burrito in the US Southwest |
| 1990s | Irish pubs and restaurants in Ireland begin putting Mexican-Irish fusion dishes on menus |
| Early 2000s | Irish burritos gain popularity around St. Patrick’s Day in the US |
| 2010s | Irish burritos proliferate on Irish pub and restaurant menus in both Ireland and America |
While the exact origin is unknown, the Irish burrito grew in popularity in Ireland and America over the late 20th and early 21st century as an inventive fusion food celebrating both cultures.
Why are Irish burritos popular?
There are several reasons why Irish burritos have taken off:
- They bring together popular flavors and ingredients from Irish and Mexican cuisines in an innovative way.
- The carb-heavy fillings and hearty tortilla appeal to Irish tastes.
- Spicy salsa, guacamole, and Mexican seasonings add freshness and vibrancy.
- They provide a unique St. Patrick’s Day food option beyond just corned beef and cabbage.
- As an inexpensive, handheld meal, they appeal to students and pub patrons looking to eat affordably.
- The concept combines familiar comfort foods for both Irish Americans and Mexican Americans.
- As a fusion food, they capture interest for their blend of cultures.
For those craving a bit of Irish flair in a convenient, Mexican-inspired package, the Irish burrito delivers. The fusion of authentic flavors and ingredients makes it intriguing to foodies.
How can I make an Irish burrito at home?
Making Irish burritos at home is easy. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 8 – 10 inch flour tortillas
- 1 pound thinly sliced corned beef
- 1 cup cooked and diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup salsa, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- Mexican crema or sour cream for serving
Steps:
- Cook the potatoes until fork tender. Allow to cool and dice into 1/2 inch pieces.
- Lay the tortillas on a flat surface. Layer the corned beef, potatoes, cabbage, and cheese down the center of each tortilla.
- Top with salsa and guacamole.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the fillings and roll tightly to secure.
- Place the burritos seam side down in a skillet. Cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until tortillas are lightly browned and crisped.
- Serve the Irish burritos hot with extra salsa, guacamole, and Mexican crema or sour cream.
Be creative and add any additional fillings you enjoy. Ground beef, braised lamb or chicken, sauerkraut, peas, and carrots all make great additions!
Where can I find Irish burritos on a menu?
Here are some restaurants and pubs to try Irish burritos, both in Ireland and in Irish American communities:
- Ireland: The Blind Pig, Dublin; Fitzsimons Gastropub, Temple Bar, Dublin; The Counter, Killarney
- United States: Paddy’s Pub, Chicago; Porterhouse Central, New York City; Irish Bank, Boston; O’Malley’s Bar, Los Angeles
- Canada: Dora Keogh Irish Pub, Toronto; Irish Embassy Pub, Vancouver
- United Kingdom: Corrigan’s Mayfair, London; Pogue Mahone, Manchester
- Australia: Irish Murphy’s, Sydney; Finn McCool’s, Darwin
Irish burritos can also frequently be found as specials at Irish pubs and restaurants around St. Patrick’s Day and as regular menu items at Mexican restaurants with Irish flare.
Conclusion
The Irish burrito brings together the best of Irish and Mexican food cultures. Fusing hearty Irish ingredients like corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes into a Mexican tortilla produces a satisfying meal that is greater than the sum of its parts. While the origins may be murky, Irish burritos have become popular pub grub and a unique way to bridge cultures. With bold flavors, fresh components, and endless room for innovation, the Irish burrito has become a staple that celebrates Irish heritage with a delicious Mexican twist.