Barburrito Blog

The Rich History of Mexican Cuisine

Mexican cuisine is one of the world's oldest culinary traditions, with a history dating back thousands of years to the ancient civilizations of the Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas. These early societies cultivated staple ingredients that remain central to Mexican cooking today, including corn, beans, and chili peppers.

When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they brought with them European ingredients like wheat, dairy products, and various meats, which blended with indigenous foods to create what we now recognize as Mexican cuisine. This fusion of Old and New World flavors produced iconic dishes that have stood the test of time.

Today, Mexican food continues to evolve while maintaining its rich cultural heritage. Regional variations throughout Mexico showcase local ingredients and cooking techniques, from the seafood-centric dishes of coastal areas to the mole sauces of central Mexico. At Barburrito, we draw inspiration from this diverse culinary landscape to bring authentic Mexican flavors to Canada.

How to Make the Perfect Burrito at Home

Creating restaurant-quality burritos at home is easier than you might think. The key is to understand the essential components and how they work together. A perfect burrito should have a balance of flavors and textures while maintaining structural integrity—nobody wants a burrito that falls apart after the first bite!

Start with a large, fresh tortilla warmed on a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side. This makes it pliable and less likely to tear. For fillings, prepare seasoned proteins like marinated chicken, beef, or beans for vegetarian options. Cook rice with lime and cilantro for a bright, flavorful base, and prepare fresh toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, and shredded cheese.

The wrapping technique is crucial: place fillings in the center of the tortilla, leaving at least two inches on each side. Fold in the sides, then pull the bottom edge up and over the filling, pulling back slightly to tighten the roll before completing the wrap. If you're still perfecting your technique, don't worry—even an imperfectly wrapped burrito can be delicious. And remember, you can always visit Barburrito for perfectly wrapped burritos crafted by our expert team!

Top 5 Mexican Street Foods You Need to Try

Mexican street food, or "antojitos" (little cravings), represents some of the most flavorful and authentic dishes in Mexican cuisine. These handheld delights are perfect for quick meals and offer an explosion of flavors. Here are five street foods that deserve a spot on your culinary bucket list.

First, tacos al pastor—thinly sliced marinated pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie, inspired by Lebanese shawarma but distinctly Mexican with its adobo seasoning. Served on small corn tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro, they're a Mexico City staple. Second, elote, or Mexican street corn, features corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime—a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors.

Don't miss tlayudas, sometimes called "Mexican pizza," consisting of a large, thin, crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, lettuce, avocado, meat, and cheese. Fourth, churros—fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon sugar and often served with chocolate dipping sauce—make for a perfect sweet treat. Finally, try chilaquiles, a breakfast dish of fried tortilla pieces simmered in salsa and topped with eggs, cheese, and cream—the ultimate comfort food. At Barburrito, we incorporate elements of these authentic street foods into our menu to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican streets to Canada.

The Art of Making Fresh Guacamole

Few dishes capture the essence of Mexican cuisine quite like guacamole. This beloved avocado-based dip dates back to the Aztecs, who called it "ahuaca-mulli" (avocado sauce). Today, it's enjoyed worldwide, but the best guacamole follows time-honored principles that highlight the natural flavors of fresh ingredients.

The foundation of great guacamole is perfectly ripe avocados—they should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not feel mushy. Traditional guacamole contains just a few additional ingredients: lime juice, salt, onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. Some regional variations add tomatoes or garlic, but purists often prefer the simpler version that lets the avocado shine.

The texture is a matter of personal preference—some like it chunky, while others prefer it smooth. At Barburrito, we strike a balance with a slightly chunky texture that maintains the integrity of the avocado while ensuring all flavors are well-distributed. We make our guacamole fresh daily using Canadian-grown vegetables whenever possible, combined with traditional Mexican preparation methods. Remember, authentic guacamole needs no preservatives—the lime juice naturally prevents oxidation for a few hours, which is why we prepare it throughout the day rather than in large batches. Next time you visit, notice how our guacamole enhances everything from burritos to tacos with its creamy, fresh flavor.

Mexican Cuisine in Canada: A Growing Trend

Mexican cuisine has experienced remarkable growth in popularity across Canada over the past decade. What was once considered a niche ethnic food has become a mainstream dining option embraced by Canadians from coast to coast. This surge in interest reflects both Canada's increasing cultural diversity and a growing appreciation for authentic international flavors.

Several factors have contributed to this trend. Canadian diners are becoming more adventurous, seeking bold flavors and new culinary experiences. Social media has played a significant role, with visually appealing Mexican dishes trending on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Additionally, growing awareness of the health benefits of traditional Mexican ingredients—like beans, avocados, and fresh vegetables—has attracted health-conscious consumers.

Barburrito has been at the forefront of this movement, adapting authentic Mexican recipes to Canadian tastes while maintaining culinary integrity. We've observed regional preferences across different Canadian provinces: coastal areas show greater interest in seafood-based Mexican dishes, while prairie provinces favor heartier meat options. Our mobile-responsive ordering system has also revealed interesting trends, with urban customers more likely to explore novel items, while suburban locations see more family-style ordering patterns. As Mexican cuisine continues to evolve in the Canadian foodscape, we remain committed to introducing innovative dishes while honoring traditional Mexican cooking methods and ingredients that have captivated food lovers for generations.