The battle to find the UK’s master burrito maker reaches the finals tomorrow

The search for the UK’s Ultimate Burrito Master faces its thrilling conclusion tomorrow in London, where the grand finale of the nationwide competition will take place. 

This summer, Tortilla, the UK’s most loved Mexican restaurant, embarked on the search to find the Ultimate Burrito Master. 

After months of fierce heats across the country, the final showdown will be hosted at Tortilla’s Leadenhall restaurant, with six finalists battling it out for the prestigious title of Burrito Master 2024.

These culinary champions have chopped, grilled, and wrapped their way to the top, and now they’re ready to prove they’ve got what it takes to claim that prestigious burrito crown. 

With the competition finale just around the corner the stage is set for an unforgettable event in London as the UK’s top burrito makers.

Each finalist represents the best of the best that Tortilla offers from across the UK from Manchester, Lincoln, Stratford, Cardiff, Richmond, and Dalston. 

With their unique flair and skills, they’ll face a series of challenges, all designed to test their expertise and creativity in crafting the perfect burrito.

In the first round, the contestants will showcase their ability to build and wrap the perfect burrito—turning it upside down to demonstrate flawless technique. 

The heat will be turned up in the second round when the finalists create their ultimate taco, a blind round where the judges will step away, leaving presentation and portioning as key factors in scoring. 

The third challenge requires them to design a picture-perfect burrito bowl, built to Tortilla’s high standards. 

Finally, the contestants will let their imaginations run wild in the last round, where they’ll create their own signature dish, highlighting their personality, passion, and culinary knowledge.

Then one talented finalist will be crowned Tortilla’s Burrito Master of 2024 and rewarded with a fantastic array of prizes, including £1,000 in travel vouchers, exclusive Burrito Master merchandise, and Just Eat takeaway vouchers.

Judging the event will be a panel of experts, including Tortilla’s CEO Andy Naylor, Food Director James Garland, and Head of Brand Standards & Compliance Kristal May. 

This highly anticipated competition is supported by a number of Tortilla’s valued partners, including Just Eat Takeaway, Fresh Direct, Beavertown, and more, ensuring the event is a true celebration of flavour and creativity.

CEO Andy Naylor said: “This summer we’ve been on the hunt for the ultimate Tortilla Burrito Master, it’s been fantastic to see all our teams get so involved and showcase their skill and craft in making our famous burritos.”

Tortilla Mexican Grill recently launched its first-ever app, introducing a new loyalty programme called The Burrito Society. This app brings together fans of Tortilla, offering rewards for loyalty and surprise perks that drop into the app for its most dedicated burrito lovers.

Founded in 2007, Tortilla has grown to become the largest fast-casual Mexican restaurant brand in Europe, with over 80 locations across the UK, more than 30 in France, and eight in the Middle East. 

The brand serves over 7 million meals annually, known for its freshly made-to-order burritos, tacos, and salads, all crafted with high-quality ingredients. Tortilla’s menu is fully customisable, offering a variety of plant-based, vegan-friendly, and sustainably sourced options, while the business remains committed to using 100% recyclable packaging and renewable energy, sending zero waste to landfill.

https://www.tortilla.co.uk

A Celebration of Breads from Around the World

Bread, in its myriad forms, is a staple food that transcends cultures and borders. It is a testament to human ingenuity and the diversity of culinary traditions. 

From the crusty baguettes of France to the soft naan of India, each type of bread tells a story of its origin and the people who bake it. 

Let's embark on a global journey to celebrate the different styles of bread that have delighted palates for centuries.

Baguette (France)

The quintessential French baguette is renowned for its long, slender shape and crispy crust. Made from simple ingredients – flour, water, yeast, and salt – the magic of the baguette lies in its baking process. The dough is allowed to ferment slowly, developing a complex flavour. Baguettes are often enjoyed fresh with a slather of butter or as the foundation of a classic jambon-beurre sandwich. In France, the importance of the baguette is such that it has been recognised as a cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Sourdough (United States/Various)

Sourdough bread has experienced a renaissance in recent years, particularly in the United States. This ancient bread, characterised by its tangy flavour and chewy texture, is made using a natural starter of wild yeast and lactobacilli. The long fermentation process not only enhances its flavour but also makes it easier to digest. San Francisco is famous for its distinctively tangy sourdough, thanks to the unique wild yeasts present in the area.

Ciabatta (Italy)

Ciabatta, meaning “slipper” in Italian, is a rustic, airy bread with a crisp crust and a light, porous crumb. Created in the 1980s in response to the popularity of French baguettes, ciabatta quickly became a staple in Italian bakeries. It is made with a high hydration dough, which gives it a unique texture. Ciabatta is perfect for sandwiches, particularly when used in panini, where its robust structure holds up well to grilling.

Naan (India)

Naan is a soft, pillowy flatbread traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, which gives it a characteristic char and smoky flavour. This Indian bread is typically made with white flour, yoghurt, and yeast, which contribute to its softness and slight tang. Naan is a versatile accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from rich curries to grilled meats. Garlic naan, topped with butter and minced garlic, is a popular variation that adds an extra layer of flavour.

Rye Bread (Germany/Scandinavia)

Rye bread, with its dense texture and hearty flavour, is a staple in many Northern and Eastern European countries. German pumpernickel, made from coarsely ground rye and molasses, is dark, slightly sweet, and packed with nutrients. In Scandinavia, rye bread is often lighter and more sour, as seen in the popular Danish rugbrød. Rye bread pairs beautifully with smoked fish, cheese, and pickled vegetables, making it a key component of traditional smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches).

Pita (Middle East)

Pita bread, also known as Arabic bread, is a soft, round flatbread with a pocket that forms during baking. This pocket makes pita ideal for stuffing with a variety of fillings, from falafel and hummus to shawarma. Pita can also be cut into wedges and toasted to serve as a crunchy accompaniment to dips. Its versatility and ease of preparation have made pita a beloved bread across the Middle East and beyond.

Soda Bread (Ireland)

Irish soda bread is a simple, hearty loaf made without yeast. Instead, bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) is used as a leavening agent, reacting with the acidity of buttermilk to create a light, tender crumb. Traditionally, soda bread is baked with wholemeal flour, giving it a nutty flavour and dense texture. It is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, slathered with butter and honey, or alongside a comforting bowl of soup.

Tortilla (Mexico)

The tortilla is a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, with a history dating back thousands of years. Traditional corn tortillas are made from masa harina (corn flour) and water, pressed thin and cooked on a hot griddle. Flour tortillas, made with wheat flour, are softer and more pliable. Both types of tortillas are incredibly versatile, used in dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The humble tortilla's ability to complement a wide range of flavours and textures is a testament to its enduring popularity.

Challah (Jewish)

Challah is a beautifully braided bread traditionally eaten on the Jewish Sabbath and holidays. Made with eggs, water, flour, sugar, yeast, and salt, challah has a rich, slightly sweet flavour and a soft, airy crumb. The braided shape symbolises unity and continuity, and the glossy, golden crust is achieved by brushing the dough with egg wash before baking. Challah is delicious on its own, with a spread of butter or jam, or used in French toast.

Focaccia (Italy)

Focaccia is a flat, oven-baked bread similar in style and texture to pizza dough. It is characterised by its airy crumb and crisp, olive oil-infused crust. Focaccia is often topped with a variety of ingredients, such as rosemary, sea salt, olives, or tomatoes, making it a versatile accompaniment to meals or a satisfying snack on its own. The simplicity of its ingredients allows the flavours to shine, celebrating the essence of Italian baking.

Conclusion

The world of bread is as diverse as it is delicious, with each type reflecting the cultural and historical context of its origin. From the robust flavours of rye bread to the delicate texture of naan, bread connects us to our heritage and to each other.

Celebrating these different styles not only enriches our culinary experiences but also fosters a greater appreciation for the shared human endeavour of baking. So, whether you are enjoying a slice of warm challah or a piece of crusty baguette, take a moment to savour the rich history and tradition that each bite represents.

The Global Gastronomic Adventure: Exploring World Street Food

In every corner of the globe, a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights awaits those willing to embark on a journey through the bustling streets. 

From the savoury aromas of sizzling meats to the sweet scents of freshly baked pastries, street food offers a sensory adventure like no other. 

Join us as we traverse the world, exploring the rich and diverse tapestry of street food that unites communities and tantalises taste buds.

Asia: A Symphony of Flavours

Begin your culinary odyssey in Asia, where the streets teem with an array of tantalising treats. In Thailand, savour the tangy flavours of Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish adorned with peanuts and lime. 

Venture to Japan for the umami-rich indulgence of Takoyaki, octopus-filled batter balls, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Don't forget to try the iconic steamed buns of China or the spicy allure of Indian chaat.

Latin America: Spice and Soul

From the vibrant markets of Mexico City to the bustling streets of Buenos Aires, Latin America beckons with its bold and fiery street fare. Dive into the crispy perfection of Mexican Tacos al Pastor, marinated pork nestled in warm tortillas and topped with pineapple and cilantro. 

Indulge in the savory delight of Colombian Arepas, cornmeal patties stuffed with cheese or meats, grilled to perfection. 

And of course, no exploration of Latin American street food would be complete without sampling the beloved Argentine empanadas, stuffed pastries bursting with flavour.

Europe: A Tapestry of Tradition

Europe's cobblestone streets are steeped in culinary history, offering a delightful fusion of traditional flavours and modern twists. In Italy, feast on the crispy goodness of Roman supplì, deep-fried rice balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese and ragù sauce. 

Journey to Greece for the hearty comfort of Souvlaki, skewered meats grilled to perfection and served with tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread. 

And let's not forget the iconic Belgian waffles, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and adorned with an array of delectable toppings.

Africa: Spice Routes and Savoury Delights

Africa's street food scene is a testament to the continent's rich culinary heritage, blending aromatic spices with fresh ingredients to create unforgettable flavours. 

In Morocco, lose yourself in the intoxicating aroma of sizzling tagines, slow-cooked stews bursting with tender meats and fragrant spices. 

Sample the fiery flavours of Nigerian Suya, skewered meats marinated in a spicy peanut sauce and grilled to perfection. 

And don't miss out on the savoury delight of South African Bunny Chow, hollowed-out loaves of bread filled with spicy curry.

Exploring world street food is not just about satisfying hunger, it's about immersing oneself in the vibrant tapestry of global culture and culinary traditions. 

From the bustling streets of Asia to the cobblestone alleys of Europe, each bite tells a story, weaving together the flavours and traditions of generations past. So, grab your passport and embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other, because when it comes to street food, the world is your oyster, or perhaps your empanada? Bon appétit!