Fajita vs. Burrito — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 20, 2024
Fajitas are typically served as grilled meat with vegetables on a sizzling plate, while burritos are wrapped in a flour tortilla containing various fillings.
Difference Between Fajita and Burrito
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Fajitas originated in Texas, initially made from skirt steak by Mexican ranch workers, emphasizing the use of grilled meat and vegetables. Whereas burritos, originating from northern Mexico, feature a flour tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients, including beans, rice, and meat.
Fajitas are traditionally served with the components laid out separately, allowing for a customizable eating experience. On the other hand, burritos are pre-assembled, offering a convenient, portable meal option.
Fajitas are often cooked with a distinct seasoning mix that highlights the smoky flavor of the grilled components. Meanwhile, burrito fillings can vary widely in flavor depending on the combination of ingredients such as salsa, cheese, and sour cream.
Fajitas usually come with tortillas on the side, giving diners the choice to make wraps to their liking. In contrast, burritos are completely enclosed, with the tortilla acting as a neat package for the ingredients inside.
While fajitas are typically associated with a communal and interactive dining experience, burritos are often considered a quick individual meal, emphasizing convenience.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Texas, from Mexican ranch workers
Northern Mexico
Main Components
Grilled meat and vegetables
Beans, rice, meat, and vegetables
Serving Style
Served separately with tortillas
Wrapped in a flour tortilla
Seasoning
Smoky, specific fajita seasoning
Varied, includes salsa and cheese
Dining Context
Communal, interactive
Quick, portable
Compare with Definitions
Fajita
Traditionally made with skirt steak, though now often made with chicken or other meats.
The beef fajita is marinated overnight to enhance its flavors.
Burrito
Can vary widely in size and fillings, sometimes featuring unique combinations.
The breakfast burrito included eggs, sausage, and hash browns.
Fajita
A Tex-Mex dish featuring grilled meat and vegetables usually served on a sizzling plate.
We ordered chicken fajitas, which came with peppers and onions.
Burrito
Designed to be a portable, self-contained meal.
Burritos are my go-to for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Fajita
Known for its distinctive seasoning, often a mix of lime, cumin, and chili.
The key to a good fajita is the perfect balance of seasoning.
Burrito
A Mexican dish consisting of a flour tortilla filled with various ingredients.
I ordered a burrito stuffed with rice, beans, and grilled veggies.
Fajita
Associated with a communal dining experience.
Fajitas are perfect for sharing, each person building their own.
Burrito
Popular in fast-food and sit-down restaurants alike.
You can find a variety of burritos at almost any Mexican restaurant.
Fajita
Served with soft tortillas, allowing diners to make their own wraps.
The waiter brought tortillas alongside our sizzling fajita platter.
Burrito
Often includes fillings like rice, beans, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
The burrito was overflowing with toppings and melted cheese.
Fajita
A fajita (; Spanish: [faˈxita] (listen)) in Tex-Mex is any stripped grilled meat with stripped peppers and onions that is usually served on a flour or corn tortilla. The term originally referred to skirt steak, the cut of beef first used in the dish.
Burrito
A burrito (English: , Spanish: [buˈrito] (listen)) is a dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine that took form in California cuisine, consisting of a flour tortilla wrapped into a sealed cylindrical shape around various ingredients. The tortilla is sometimes lightly grilled or steamed to soften it, make it more pliable, and allow it to adhere to itself when wrapped.
Fajita
A dish consisting of strips of marinated meat or vegetables that are grilled over an open fire and served in a tortilla, usually with spicy condiments.
Burrito
A flour tortilla wrapped around a filling, as of beef, beans, or cheese.
Fajita
A Tex-Mex dish of strips of spicy marinated meat and/or vegetables in a soft flour tortilla, often served with salad or a savoury filling.
Burrito
A Mexican dish consisting of a flour tortilla wrapped around a filling of meat and/or beans, cheese etc.
Burrito
(slang) To wrap someone or something up like a burrito.
Burrito
A flour tortilla folded around a filling.
Burrito
A flour tortilla folded around a filling
Common Curiosities
What is the main difference in the preparation of fajitas and burritos?
Fajitas are grilled and served with separate components, while burritos are wrapped and served as a complete package.
Are fajitas considered a healthy food option?
Fajitas can be a healthy option if made with lean meats and plenty of vegetables.
Can vegetarian options be found for both fajitas and burritos?
Yes, both dishes can be prepared with vegetarian ingredients like grilled vegetables or beans.
What types of meat are commonly used in fajitas?
Chicken, beef, and shrimp are the most common meats used in fajitas.
How are fajitas typically seasoned?
Fajitas are seasoned with a mix that might include lime juice, cumin, and chili powder.
What makes a burrito different from a taco?
A burrito is larger and fully enclosed, whereas tacos are smaller and open-faced.
Can burritos be frozen for later use?
Yes, burritos are often frozen and can be reheated as a convenient meal.
Is cheese a common ingredient in fajitas?
Cheese is not typically a main ingredient in fajitas but is often added in Americanized versions.
Is it common to eat fajitas without tortillas?
While uncommon, one can opt to eat the fajita fillings alone, especially if following a low-carb diet.
Do burritos originate from the same region as fajitas?
No, burritos originate from northern Mexico, while fajitas have Tex-Mex origins.
What are some common burrito fillings?
Common fillings include rice, beans, cheese, salsa, and meat.
Are there different regional styles of burritos within Mexico and the U.S.?
Yes, burrito styles vary widely, with differences in fillings and sizes seen across different regions.
What is a typical side dish for fajitas?
Sides for fajitas often include guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
What are some dietary considerations when eating burritos?
Those watching their caloric intake may need to consider the size and fillings of burritos, as they can be high in calories.
How have fajitas evolved in American cuisine?
Fajitas have expanded to include a variety of meats and vegetarian options, adapting to diverse dietary preferences.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
