Meat Tornado
Background and Description
The "Meat Tornado" became famous from the popular television show Parks and Recreation, when character Ron Swanson humorously describes it as a burrito so meaty it "literally killed a guy." While its origins are fictional, the concept of this epic, meat-filled dish appeals to carnivores everywhere. Typically, such a dish would be a protein feast, consisting of a combination of meats wrapped in an oversized tortilla, making it a hearty and filling experience.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef
- Chicken Breasts
- Pork Sausages
- Bacon
- Onion
- Bell Pepper
- Chili Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Cumin
- Salt
- Pepper
- Tortillas
- Cheddar Cheese
- Sour Cream
- Salsa
Preparation
Prepping the Meats
Start by preparing each of the meats included in the Meat Tornado. Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it's no longer pink. With the beef cooked, drain excess fat and season it with chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Next, take the chicken breasts and season them with salt and pepper. Grill until fully cooked, then shred the chicken into pieces suitable for filling a burrito.
For the pork sausages, remove the casing and cook the meat until browned. Ensure it is fully cooked before setting aside. Finally, cook the slices of bacon until crispy and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Process
Assembling the Meat Tornado
With the meats prepared, warm a large tortilla to make it pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface and begin layering with the ground beef, chicken, and sausage. Add directly on top the crispy bacon pieces.
Sprinkle a hefty amount of cheddar cheese over the meat ensemble, allowing the warmth of the meats to begin melting the cheese. Optional: Add bell peppers and onion for extra flavor and crunch.
Rolling Up
Once all the ingredients are in place, roll the tortilla tightly to form the burrito, ensuring all the meats are enclosed properly inside. This rolling method is crucial to ensuring the Meat Tornado holds together during eating. If necessary, use a toothpick to secure it.
Final Touches
Heat the fully assembled burrito on a greased skillet over medium heat to toast the outside, creating a slight crunch and warming the interior fully. Grilling each side for a few minutes should do the trick—be mindful of your cooking timer.
How to Enjoy the Meal
Serve the Meat Tornado with a side of sour cream and salsa for dipping. For a complete dining experience, consider pairing this heavy dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
Whether sharing with friends during a TV marathon or enjoying a fulfilling dinner, the Meat Tornado is bound to leave a memorable impression on all carnivore dish enthusiasts. Remember to enjoy responsibly—this culinary creation isn't for those who prefer light meals!