San Francisco Mission Style Burrito
When it comes to burritos, there are many styles and variations to choose from. But if you're in San Francisco, there's one style that stands out above the rest: the Mission style burrito. This beloved burrito is a staple of the city's food scene and has gained a cult following among locals and tourists alike. In this article, we'll dive deep into the history, ingredients, preparation, and where to find the best Mission style burritos in San Francisco.
What is a Mission Style Burrito?
Mission style burritos are massive, foil-wrapped behemoths stuffed with a variety of ingredients, including rice, beans, meat, cheese, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. This style of burrito originated in the Mission District of San Francisco in the 1960s and has since spread throughout the city and beyond. So what sets a Mission style burrito apart from other burritos?
First and foremost, it's the sheer size of the burrito. A true Mission style burrito is a hefty meal in and of itself, with some weighing in at over a pound. The tortilla used to wrap the burrito is also distinct, as it's typically larger and thinner than other tortillas, allowing for more stuffing. Another hallmark of a Mission style burrito is the inclusion of rice and beans, which provide a hearty and filling base for the other ingredients. Finally, the toppings and condiments are key to a great Mission style burrito. The fresh guacamole, spicy salsa, and tangy sour cream all add a burst of flavor and texture to the burrito.
The History of Mission Style Burritos
The Mission style burrito can be traced back to the 1960s in the Mission District of San Francisco. The district had a large Mexican-American population, and as a result, there were many taquerias and Mexican restaurants in the area. It's said that the Mission style burrito was invented by a taqueria called La Cumbre, which is still in business today. The owner, Raul Duran, wanted to create a meal that was portable and filling for the neighborhood's blue-collar workers. He came up with the idea of a burrito stuffed with rice, beans, meat, and other toppings, and the Mission style burrito was born.
As the popularity of the Mission style burrito grew, other taquerias in the Mission District began to offer their own variations. Today, you can find Mission style burritos all over San Francisco and beyond, and each taqueria has its own unique take on the classic.
The Ingredients of a Mission Style Burrito
As we mentioned earlier, the filling of a Mission style burrito typically includes rice, beans, meat, cheese, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. Let's take a closer look at each ingredient:
- Rice: The rice used in a Mission style burrito is typically Spanish rice, which is seasoned with tomato sauce, onions, and other spices.
- Beans: The beans can be either black or pinto beans, and they're usually cooked with garlic, onion, and other seasonings.
- Meat: The most common meats used in a Mission style burrito are carne asada (grilled steak), carnitas (shredded pork), al pastor (spit-roasted pork), or chicken.
- Cheese: The cheese used in a Mission style burrito is typically Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, which is melted to create a gooey texture.
- Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole is a must for any Mission style burrito. It's typically made with mashed avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and other seasonings.
- Salsa: Salsa is another key ingredient in a Mission style burrito. It can be either red or green salsa, and it's usually made with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices.
- Sour cream: Tangy sour cream adds a creamy texture and flavor to the burrito.
Where to Find the Best Mission Style Burritos in San Francisco
With so many taquerias and Mexican restaurants in San Francisco, it can be hard to know where to find the best Mission style burrito. Here are a few top picks:
- La Taqueria: Located in the heart of the Mission District, La Taqueria is a local favorite for Mission style burritos. The carne asada and carnitas burritos are both excellent.
- Papalote Mexican Grill: With locations in the Mission District and the Lower Haight, Papalote is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful salsa. Try the super carne asada burrito.
- El Farolito: This taqueria has multiple locations throughout the city and is known for its massive burritos. The al pastor and chicken burritos are both popular choices.
- La Cumbre: The original home of the Mission style burrito, La Cumbre is still going strong after more than 50 years. Try the succulent carne asada or juicy carnitas burrito.
Conclusion
The Mission style burrito is a true San Francisco institution, and it's easy to see why. With its massive size, flavorful ingredients, and endless variations, it's the perfect meal for anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying lunch or dinner. Whether you're a local or a tourist, be sure to seek out the best Mission style burritos in San Francisco for an unforgettable culinary experience.
