Chimichangas

Dinner

Though still debated, Tucson is generally credited as the original home of the chimichanga (fried "burro", as we call them, stuffed with meat, onions and chilies). I've combined several recipes into this one, and it's fairly authentic.

Average Rating: 4.333333

TOTAL TIME: Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
YIELD: 12 servings.

1/4 cup bacon grease
2 cups chopped or shredded cooked beef, pork or chicken
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies
1 large peeled boiled potato, diced
1 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 to 2 teaspoons chili powder or to taste
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
12 large flour tortillas, warmed
Vegetable oil
Optional Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, sliced ripe olives

1. In a skillet, melt bacon grease over medium heat. Saute meat, onion, garlic, tomatoes, chilies and potatoes until the onion softens. Add salt, oregano, chili powder and cilantro; simmer 2-3 minutes. Place a scant 1/2 cup meat filling on each tortilla. Fold, envelope-style, like a burrito. Fry, seam side down, in 1/2 in. of hot oil. (360°-375°) until crispy and brown. Turn and brown other side. Drain briefly on a paper towel. Top as desired; serve immediately.