Meat Tornado
The Meat Tornado is a fictional dish from the TV show Parks and Recreation, famously known for its creator, Ron Swanson. This dish is legendary in its meatiness and has become a symbolic representation of Ron's love for meat and hearty meals. In this comprehensive recipe, we’ll explore how to recreate this meat marvel from scratch at home. Prepare your appetite for a tornado of flavors!
Ingredients
- Bacon - 1 pound thick-cut
- Sausage - 1 pound Italian, hot or mild according to preference
- Ground Beef - 1 pound, preferably 80% lean
- Barbecue Sauce - 1 cup
- Hot Sauce - To taste
- Onion - 1, finely chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Cheese - 2 cups shredded cheddar
- Spices - Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste
- Tortillas - Large flour, for wrapping
- Oil - 2 tablespoons for cooking
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Meats
Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and let it drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, add the sausage meat without the casings. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Once browned, remove to a plate. In the same pan, add a tablespoon of oil and then the onion and garlic. Cook until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, and ground beef. Add the cooked onions and garlic. Mix in the barbecue sauce and hot sauce to taste, as well as the shredded cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with spices like salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Assemble the Meat Tornado
Take a tortilla and place a generous amount of the meat mixture in the center. Roll the tortilla burrito-style, tucking in the ends as you roll. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Step 4: Grill or Bake
Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a grill, place the rolled Meat Tornado directly on the grates and grill until the tortilla is crispy, about 10-15 minutes. If baking, place on a baking tray and bake for the same duration, flipping once halfway through for even cooking.
Enjoying the Meal
Savor this meat masterpiece while it's still hot, paired with a cold beverage. The combination of the various meats with the tangy barbecue sauce and spicy hot sauce provides a whirlwind of flavors sure to satisfy the most carnivorous appetites. Get ready to be blown away by the Meat Tornado!