How to Order the Perfect Burrito

A burrito is a legion above ordinary fast food. A beacon of Mexican- American integration, it is native to neither culture but based on both. It's also cheap, delicious and often packed with more food than anyone should eat in a single meal. Burritos are common on the West Coast and in the Southwest, and they're gradually appearing elsewhere. Now, step up to the counter and order.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start with a fresh flour tortilla. It will be warmed before your eyes after you order, often in a steamer. Some restaurants offer tortillas made with whole wheat, spinach, tomato or other ingredients.

2. Choose a filling, such as steak (carne asada), pork (carnitas), chicken or vegetables. You'll see them grilled up as you wait. Many restaurants offer other variations, such as mole, a sauce with hints of chocolate.

3. Pick up your frijoles. Beans are not merely a filler, but a vital and healthy ingredient. Choices usually include whole pinto, black or refried beans. Refried beans (cooked then mashed) are tasty but can create a mushy burrito.

4. Include rice: Most West Coast burritos do but in many other places, they don't. Establishments that take pride in their burritos will have succulent, flavorful rice. Careless burrito makers will have boring rice. Some flavor their rice with tomatillos, paprika, cilantro or other seasonings, while others offer basic white or brown.

5. Add cheese, fresh guacamole or sour cream if you like, but too much can create a gloppy mess and obscure the other flavors. Beware of adding calories and fat too. Tomatoes, lettuce and other vegetables are tasty add-ins.

6. Choose hot, medium or mild salsa. Many restaurants include a side of tortilla chips and salsa with your order.

7. Wash that little burro down with a great Mexican beer or craft beer (see How to Choose a Microbrew).

Tips & Warnings

• Some of the best burritos are found at inexpensive and unassuming taquerias.
• Fresh cilantro is a sign of a good burrito. Avoid premade burritos.
• Fancy or unusual ingredients do not necessarily result in a better burrito.
• If you feel extreme fatigue or laziness after consuming an entire burrito, you have come down with a temporary case of burrito coma.