If you’re craving Mexican food, then you have a lot of alternatives to choose from. Mexican cuisine consists of a family or selection of delectable Mexican meals that mainly feature tortillas.
Tortillas have proven to be the ideal shell for a wide range of fillings. Because these dishes are similar, it is not far-fetched to be confused about the difference between them.
Enchilada vs Burrito vs Fajita
Here are the differences and similarities between Enchiladas, Burrito, and Fajitas based on different criteria.
Origin of the Cuisine
Enchiladas
Enchiladas are rooted in Mexican cuisine and have a long history in Mexican cooking. The term “enchilada” is derived from the Spanish word “enchilada,” which means “to season with chili.”
Enchiladas come in many regional variations throughout Mexico and beyond. It’s a popular and flavorful dish enjoyed by people worldwide.
For this reason, you may encounter a wide range of ingredients and flavors when trying different types of enchiladas.
Burritos
The burrito is another popular Mexican meal, but its exact origin is still a topic of debate. It is believed to have originated in the border region of Northern Mexico and the United States, particularly in the state of Chihuahua.
The term “burrito” is derived from the Spanish word “burro,” which means donkey. Some suggest that it was named after the rolled pack that donkeys carried, resembling the shape of a burrito.
Burritos gained popularity in the United States in the mid-20th century. Since then, it has become a staple of Mexican-American cuisine.
Fajitas
The Fajita is a Tex-Mex cuisine, likely from the 1930s or 1940s in Texas. The term “fajita” originally referred to a cut of beef (usually skirt steak). It was considered a less expensive and less desirable cut of meat.
It was traditionally marinated and grilled, then sliced into thin strips and served with tortillas. The sizzling presentation on a hot skillet or plate became a popular way to serve fajitas in restaurants,
Ingredient
The most common ingredient of these three dishes is the tortillas and this is because most Mexican dishes come with tortillas. These dishes also come with different proteins.
Enchiladas
An enchilada is a popular Mexican dish made by rolling a tortilla (typically a corn tortilla) around a filling. Then, it is covered with a chili sauce and baked.
The filling can vary but is often composed of ingredients like cooked meat (such as chicken, beef, or pork), cheese, beans, or vegetables.
Enchiladas are a terrific dish to feed the whole family because they are meant to be shared. Typically, enchiladas consist of rolled tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients.
Burritos
Burritos can be filled with various proteins, such as grilled or shredded beef, pork, chicken, ground beef, or beans.
Vegetarian and vegan options often feature ingredients like tofu or plant-based proteins. Refried beans or whole beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, are also common fillings of the burrito.
These ingredients contribute to the burrito’s flavor and texture. To add creaminess and flavor, it usually includes grated cheese.
Fajitas
Fajitas are often made with marinated and thinly sliced beef or chicken. Other proteins like shrimp or even tofu can be used.
The meat is typically seasoned with a mixture of spices, including cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime juice. This is to give it a flavorful and slightly spicy taste.
Fajitas also come along with sautéed bell peppers and onions, served with tortillas.
How They Are Prepared
Enchiladas
After assembling the filled tortillas with the sauce, the enchiladas are usually baked in the oven. They are baked until they are heated through and the flavors meld together.
Burritos
It is made by wrapping a large flour tortilla around various ingredients to create a rolled-up, handheld meal.
Once all the desired ingredients are layered on the flour tortilla, it is typically folded over the fillings, then the sides are folded in, and the burrito is rolled up into a cylindrical shape.
Burritos are often grilled or heated on a griddle to give the tortilla a slightly crispy exterior and to melt the cheese inside.
Fajitas
Fajitas are typically made with strips of marinated and grilled meat, often beef or chicken. Then it is sautéed with onions and bell peppers. The sizzling mixture is served on a hot skillet and accompanied by warm tortillas.
The Sauce
Enchiladas
The sauce is an essential component of an enchilada. It is what gives the dish its distinctive flavor and spiciness. Enchiladas are usually smothered in sauce, often red or green chili sauce.
Burritos
Burritos can have sauce inside, but they are not typically covered with it. Burritos often include sauces like salsa and toppings like sour cream and cheese.
Fajitas
Fajitas may have sauce, but it’s usually not as essential to the dish as in enchiladas. Fajitas are often accompanied by condiments like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
Garnishes
Enchiladas are often garnished with toppings like cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, and chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Fajitas are typically accompanied by various condiments and toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. Sliced bell peppers and onions are a common addition to fajitas.
They are typically sautéed alongside the meat and seasoned with similar spices. With these, people can customize their fajitas to their liking.
Burritos Salsa is a classic choice for topping a burrito. Whether it is pico de gallo (fresh tomato and onion salsa), salsa verde (green sauce), or hot salsa.
Creamy and flavorful guacamole, made from mashed avocados, is a popular topping.
Difference in the Size
Enchiladas are like small burritos and they are typically smaller than burritos and fajitas. They are usually about 6 to 8 inches long and 2 inches in diameter.
Burritos are larger than enchiladas. The sizes are generally customizable depending on how you want them. They are often around 8 to 12 inches in length and 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
Fajitas are not single rolled-up meals like enchiladas or burritos. The size of fajita components (meat, vegetables) can vary, but they are usually served on a sizzling hot plate or skillet.
Style of Serving or Presentation
Enchiladas
This is served as a casserole-style dish with multiple rolled tortillas. Enchiladas are not very portable, as they are typically served in a dish.
Burritos
Burritos are usually served as a single, hand-held meal. They are wrapped tightly, so they are portable and easy to eat on the go.
They are often served in foil or paper to keep them together while you eat. Burritos are highly portable, making them a popular choice for on-the-go meals.
Fajitas
Fajitas are not rolled up like burritos or enchiladas. Instead, they are presented on a sizzling plate or skillet. Some diners create their fajita wraps by filling tortillas with cooked meat and vegetables.
Fajitas are commonly served family-style with the components separate for diners to serve themselves.
Clearly, enchiladas, burritos, and fajitas are all delicious dishes with Mexican origins. It is common to mistake one for the other, especially if you’re not Mexican.
However, they differ in terms of ingredients, preparation, serving style, and even cultural origin. Each dish has its own unique flavor and experience.
Your choice between them could depend on your preference for specific flavors and how you like your Mexican-inspired cuisine served.