If you're a fan of burritos, you probably already know that they are typically made with a tortilla shell. While tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are generally considered a healthier alternative to bread, they still contain carbohydrates. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the carbs in a burrito shell and what you should know if you're watching your carb intake.
What is a burrito shell?
A burrito shell is typically a flour tortilla that is used to wrap up the ingredients inside the burrito. It's soft and pliable, making it easy to fold and roll up without breaking. While corn tortillas can also be used to make burritos, flour tortillas are the more common choice in the United States.
How many carbs are in a burrito shell?
The number of carbs in a burrito shell can vary depending on the size and type of tortilla used. On average, a 10-inch flour tortilla contains around 36 grams of carbohydrates. However, some larger tortillas can contain up to 70 grams of carbs.
Why do burrito shells contain carbs?
The main ingredient in flour tortillas is wheat flour. Wheat flour is a starchy carbohydrate that is high in calories and provides energy to the body. In addition to the flour, burrito shells may also contain other carb-rich ingredients like corn, sugar, and vegetable oil.
Are there any low-carb burrito shell alternatives?
If you're watching your carb intake, there are a few low-carb alternatives to traditional flour tortillas that you can try. One option is to use a lettuce leaf or a collard green leaf as a wrap instead of the tortilla shell. Another option is to use a low-carb alternative like a coconut flour tortilla or a cauliflower tortilla.
Should you avoid burritos altogether if you're watching your carb intake?
If you're watching your carb intake, you don't necessarily need to avoid burritos altogether. While the tortilla shell does contain carbs, there are ways to make a low-carb burrito by using the right ingredients. For example, you can fill your burrito with high-protein ingredients like chicken, steak, or beans, and add plenty of veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and bell peppers. You can also skip the rice and cheese to further reduce the carb count.
The bottom line
If you're watching your carb intake, it's important to be mindful of the number of carbs in the burrito shell. While there are low-carb alternatives available, you don't necessarily need to avoid burritos altogether. By choosing the right ingredients and being mindful of portion sizes, you can still enjoy a delicious burrito while staying within your carb limits.
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