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Beef Chimichangas: A Delightful Baked or Air-Fried Treat

Chimichangas, those tantalisingly crispy parcels filled with savoury goodness, have become a popular dish both in Mexican restaurants and kitchens across the globe. Often deep-fried to achieve that golden exterior, there is now a growing trend towards healthier versions of this classic dish. Enter the baked or air-fried beef chimichanga—delicious, satisfying, and a fantastic alternative that retains all the flavour without the excess oil.

What is a Chimichanga?

Originating from the southwestern United States and closely associated with Tex-Mex cuisine, a chimichanga is essentially a flour tortilla wrapped around a filling, typically made of shredded meat, beans, cheese, and various spices. The filled tortilla is then cooked until crispy. While traditional methods often involve frying, baking or air-frying offers a lighter approach that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating beef chimichangas at home is straightforward and allows you to customise the recipe to your liking. Here’s a simple list of ingredients:

• Flour tortillas: Large tortillas work best for wrapping.
• Beef: Ground beef or shredded beef, cooked until tender.
• Beans: Refried beans or black beans add a hearty element.
• Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend for that gooey texture.
• Spices: Cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the flavour.
• Toppings: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or fresh herbs for serving.

Preparing the Filling

1. Cook the Beef: In a frying pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Season: Add a blend of spices to the beef, incorporating flavours that complement the dish. Cook for a few more minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine: In a large bowl, mix the seasoned beef with beans and cheese, ensuring everything is well distributed.

Assembling the Chimichangas

1. Warm the Tortillas: Briefly warm the tortillas on a pan or in the microwave to make them pliable.
2. Fill: Lay out a tortilla, placing a generous scoop of the beef mixture in the centre.
3. Fold: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it from the bottom up to create a tight parcel.
4. Seal: Brush the edges with a little water or beaten egg to help seal them.

Cooking Options: Baked or Air-Fried

Baking Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Place on a Baking Tray: Arrange the chimichangas seam-side down on a lined baking tray.
3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the tops with olive oil for added crispiness.
4. Bake: Cook for about 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Air-Frying Method

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
2. Arrange in the Basket: Place chimichangas in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not touch.
3. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray with cooking oil for an even crisp.
4. Air Fry: Cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Once your beef chimichangas are done, present them with a flourish! Serve with sides of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping. Fresh herbs like cilantro or chives sprinkled on top can add a vibrant touch. For a complete meal, accompany the chimichangas with a fresh salad or some Mexican rice.

Final Thoughts

Baked or air-fried beef chimichangas offer all the indulgence of the traditional dish without the guilt of excessive frying. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a delicious snack, these chimichangas are sure to impress. Embrace the joy of cooking and allow your creativity to shine as you customise these delightful parcels to your taste. Enjoy every crispy bite!

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