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

Make your very own easy-peasy Italian-Mexican-Indian-British tortilla wrap in minutes!

You too can make your very own easy-peasy Italian-Mexican-Indian-British tortilla wrap in minutes! And I'm going to tell you how.

First, take a tortilla wrap and oil it with ghee, butter or vegetable margarine, olive oil, or rapeseed oil. In fact Borderfield's British Rapeseed oils are excellent for this. Especially their delicious spray oils. Trust me. You won't know how you coped before you buy Borderfields!

Spread it with humus or a similar paste.

Next spread a thin level of tomato puree or tomato sauce over it.

Then shred ham, chicken, any other type of cooked meat that takes your fancy, or a vegetarian alternative. Squeaky Bean products are ideal.

Next add a good layer of grated or sliced cheese dairy or otherwise, it really is up to you.

Sprinkle with cumin, turmeric, a little bit of salt, a good deal of pepper (ground black is awesome!) and some Italian seasoning.

Roll it up tightly and then microwave it for two to three minutes.

It'll be piping hot, as they say, so whatever you do, don't burn your mouth on it! 

You are then the owner of an Italian-Mexican-Indian-British feast on a plate. Enjoy it!

https://www.squeakybean.co.uk

https://borderfields.co.uk

Exploring the Rich World of Mexican Cheeses

Introduction

When one thinks of Mexico, images of vibrant festivals, delicious street food, and lively music often come to mind. However, another aspect of Mexican culture that deserves equal celebration is its diverse array of cheeses. 

From the fresh and mild to the aged and robust, Mexican cheeses play a pivotal role in the nation’s cuisine. Join me on a journey to discover the unique characteristics and culinary uses of some of Mexico’s most beloved cheeses.

Queso Fresco: The Fresh Cheese

Queso Fresco, which translates to “fresh cheese,” is a staple in Mexican households. This soft, crumbly cheese is made from cow's milk and occasionally a mix of cow's and goat's milk. It has a mild flavour with a slight tanginess that complements a variety of dishes. Often used as a topping for tacos, enchiladas, and salads, Queso Fresco adds a delightful creaminess without overpowering other ingredients.

Queso Blanco: The White Cheese

Similar to Queso Fresco, Queso Blanco is another fresh cheese that boasts a soft texture and mild taste. Made from cow's milk, it is slightly firmer and can be sliced or cubed. Queso Blanco holds its shape well when heated, making it perfect for grilling or frying. It is often enjoyed in dishes like quesadillas or served alongside fresh fruit and vegetables.

Oaxaca Cheese: The Mexican Mozzarella

Named after the state of Oaxaca, this cheese is known for its stringy, stretchy texture, similar to mozzarella. Oaxaca cheese is traditionally made from cow's milk and has a buttery, slightly salty flavour. It melts beautifully, making it ideal for use in quesadillas, empanadas, and as a topping for nachos. Its unique texture also makes it a fun cheese to pull apart and enjoy on its own.

Cotija: The Aged Cheese

Cotija cheese, named after the town of Cotija in Michoacán, is a hard, crumbly cheese with a strong, salty flavour. Made from cow's milk and aged for several months, it is often referred to as the “Parmesan of Mexico.” Cotija does not melt easily, which makes it perfect for grating over dishes like elotes (Mexican street corn), beans, and salads. Its robust flavour adds a punch to any dish it accompanies.

Queso Chihuahua: The Melting Cheese

Originating from the northern state of Chihuahua, this cheese is known for its excellent melting properties. Made from cow's milk, Queso Chihuahua has a mild, buttery flavour with a hint of sharpness. It is commonly used in dishes that require melted cheese, such as quesadillas, chiles rellenos, and casseroles. Its versatility and creamy texture make it a favourite in many Mexican recipes.

Requesón: The Mexican Ricotta

Requesón is Mexico’s version of ricotta cheese. It is a fresh, soft cheese made from cow's milk whey. Requesón has a creamy, slightly grainy texture and a mild, sweet flavour. It is often used as a filling for tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, or spread on toast with a drizzle of honey. Its light, airy consistency makes it a versatile ingredient in both savoury and sweet dishes.

Panela: The Grilling Cheese

Queso Panela is a fresh, white cheese made from cow's milk. It has a smooth, firm texture and a mild, slightly salty taste. One of its unique characteristics is its ability to hold its shape when heated, making it ideal for grilling or frying. Panela is often served as a snack with a sprinkle of chilli powder and lime juice, or as a component in salads and appetisers.

Conclusion

The world of Mexican cheeses is as rich and varied as the country’s culture itself. Each cheese brings its own unique flavour and texture to the table, enhancing the culinary experience. Whether you are a cheese enthusiast or a curious foodie, exploring Mexican cheeses offers a delightful journey into the heart of Mexico’s gastronomic traditions. So next time you prepare a Mexican dish, consider adding one of these wonderful cheeses to truly elevate your meal.

Exploring the Flavours of Traditional Mexican Cuisine

Mexico’s rich culinary heritage is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse ingredients, ancient techniques, and cultural influences. 

From bustling street markets to family kitchens, traditional Mexican dishes offer a delectable journey through the country’s history and geography. 

Join us as we explore some of the most iconic and beloved dishes that define Mexican cuisine.

Tacos: The Quintessential Mexican Delight

No discussion about Mexican food is complete without mentioning tacos. These versatile delights consist of soft or crispy tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients, from succulent meats to fresh vegetables. 

Street vendors serve them with garnishes like onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lime, making each bite a burst of flavour. Popular variations include:

Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, inspired by Lebanese shawarma.

Tacos de Carnitas: Slow-cooked pork, often served with a side of salsa verde.

Tacos de Pescado: Fresh fish tacos, typically garnished with cabbage and a zesty crema.

Enchiladas: Rolled and Saucy Goodness

Enchiladas are tortillas rolled around a filling and then baked with a generous coating of sauce. This dish dates back to the Aztecs, who used to eat corn tortillas dipped in chilli sauce. Modern enchiladas can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as chicken, cheese, or beans, and are often topped with sour cream, cheese, and fresh coriander. Key variations include:

Enchiladas Verdes: Filled with chicken and topped with a tangy green tomatillo sauce.

Enchiladas Rojas: Featuring a rich red chilli sauce and often stuffed with minced meat.

Mole: A Symphony of Flavours

Mole is a complex sauce with a multitude of ingredients, often including chilli peppers, chocolate, spices, and nuts. It is a labour of love, requiring time and patience to achieve the perfect balance of flavours. 

Mole is usually served over chicken or turkey and accompanied by rice. The most famous variation is Mole Poblano, known for its deep, rich flavour and dark hue.

Tamales: A Festive Treat

Tamales are a festive staple made from masa (a dough made from maize) stuffed with various fillings, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed. The fillings can range from savoury options like pork and chicken to sweet varieties filled with fruits and nuts. Tamales are often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions, symbolising community and tradition.

Pozole: A Hearty Hominy Stew

Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy (dried maize kernels), meat (usually pork), and seasoned with garlic, chilli, and various herbs. It is a dish with deep cultural significance, traditionally consumed during celebrations and gatherings. Pozole is often served with a variety of accompaniments, such as shredded lettuce, radishes, lime, and oregano.

Chiles en Nogada: A Patriotic Feast

Chiles en Nogada is a dish that embodies Mexican history and pride. It features large poblano chillies stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce (nogada) and garnished with pomegranate seeds. This dish, with its green, white, and red colours, is traditionally served during the Mexican Independence Day celebrations.

Conclusion

Mexican cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that offers an array of flavours, textures, and aromas. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the country’s history, geography, and cultural heritage.

 Whether you are indulging in the simplicity of a taco or savouring the complex layers of a mole, traditional Mexican dishes are a testament to the nation’s vibrant gastronomic legacy. So next time you have the opportunity, dive into these culinary delights and experience the authentic taste of Mexico.

Mayfair venue to launch agave spirit-soaked Mexican party

Mr Fogg's Residence, the OG member of the Fogg's Family on Mayfgair's Bruton Lane, is launching a very special Tea-Quila Party, which promises to be Saturday afternoon of tequila cocktails, entertainment, music and snacks, bringing the party back to right where it belongs, London's iconic W1.

Launching on 25th May, partnering with the highly prestigious Patrón Tequila, the new event will whisk attendees from the Mayfair to the Mexico.

When they arrive guests are welcomed  met Phileas' own household staff who have been tasked with organising the parties as Mr Fogg is away on his Very Important Travels. 

Guests are invited to enjoy the first of their two agave-based drinks, as a DJ plays Mexican-inspired music, to help get everyone in the Mexican  party mood.

Over the course of three very filled and very fantastic hours, entertainment is to be performed by Mexican artists bringing everything from Mexican burlesque to flamenco. They'll be encouraging Mr Fogg's guests  to get on their feet as the party unfolds. 

Guests will then receive their second cocktail, plus bottomless Mexican empanadas both meat non-meat recipes. The household staff will be ensuring this is a party not to forget, as they'll share sippers of Patron with the guests, helping them toast their beloved overseas and adventurous employer.

Mr Fogg's Tea-Quila Party launches on 25th May and will run every other Saturday from 1pm. Priced at £43.20 per person (25th May only) and £54 per person (29th June and 27th July) including two Patrón Tequila cocktails and sippers, entertainment, DJ and bottomless empanadas.

https://www.mr-foggs.com/mr-foggs-residence

Chiquito puts fiesta fun into Freshers Week

Mexican restaurant favourite Chiquito is putting the fiesta fun into Freshers week with a mega FREE bingo game with some amazing prizes.

Chiquito, known for its party atmosphere and great tasting Mexican cuisine, is launching the pop up bingo at universities up and down the country to celebrate Freshers (Oct 9-Nov 9).

It all kicks off at the pop up La Loteria Bingo Bar, in collaboration with Cazcabel Tequila, which will offer a FREE drinks to students who sign up to the Chiquito newsletter. Find the team at University of Portsmouth (9/10), Northumbria University (12/10), Newcastle University (13/10) and University of Leicester (16/10).

From 9th October till 9th November students will also have the opportunity to win fantastic big prizes at Chiquito. By using their ‘La Loteria’ code, which is sent via email upon signing up, students will have the chance to win a food and drinks dinner party at Chiquito worth up to £500, free nachos and churros for a year, free tacos (vegan and meat available), free churros when you order a main, 2-4-1 meals on Sundays, and more besides. To enter, all students need do is dine in and use their ‘La Loteria’ code - they’ll get a tasty 25% off mains when they do too, also!

You’ve got to be in it to win it and with that in mind, the Chiquito & Cazcabel team will be spreading La Loteria joy with a series of special immersive Bingo nights, offering 2-4-1 drinks to students all night with prizes to be won. La Loteria Bingo Nights kick off at Portsmouth on 9th October from 7.30, with more dates to be released. To find full details on Bingo nights, go to www.chiquito.co.uk/students.

Chiquito, which has been delivering the best of Mexican cuisine for over 30 years, will also be offering ALL Freshers students a range of freebies and discounts from now until Nov 9 to help them enjoy their first few weeks of term. All vouchers to be handed to their server and can be redeemed once.

The discounts include, 30% off Food (limited to Build Your Own & Fajita Section), FREE Churros Dessert (with purchase of main meal), FREE Regular Soft Drink/FREE Garlic Tortilla Bread (with purchase of main meal), FREE Nachos for a Year – Voucher (one per month for twelve months).

Chiquito Head of Brand, Sasha Storey, said: “Chiquito is a renowned destination for students, drawn in by our fiesta atmosphere and tempting cocktail menu. We've partnered up with Cazcabel this year to bring a series of exciting bingo events - known as La Loteria in Mexico. We can't wait for our freshers to immerse themselves in our Mexi-festa vibes and win some exciting prizes along the way too.”

For full terms and conditions please see: https://www.chiquito.co.uk/terms

KOL’s 3rd Birthday - A Celebration of Mexico in London

Sunday 8th October at KOL, London - Santiago Lastra welcomes Jorge Vallejo for one day only, uniting Mexican food, culture, and spirit in London. A celebration of everything KOL is and represents on the restaurant's 3rd birthday. 

Held at Santiago’s restaurant KOL, guests will have the option of lunch or dinner and to take a journey through Mexico in the form of an exclusive, collaborative and very special tasting menu: blending influences of each chef’s ethos in creating a personal dining experience of Mexican cuisine.

KOL is now No.23 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and honours Mexican cuisine through a contemporary lens. Championing seasonality and regional British produce, Chef Santiago has developed a new understanding of what Mexican cuisine is, without access to Mexico’s abundant ingredients.

Chef Jorge Vallejo, alongside his wife Alejandra Flores, opened Quintonil in 2012, exploring Mexican culinary traditions and concentrating on product and flavour quality by working with regional producers who spark a positive impact on their communities. Now over 10 years later, Quintonil sits at No.9 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants due to Jorge’s personal and professional interpretation of what it means to be a Mexican chef. He has become an inspiration to Chef Santiago and KOL. 

Santiago and Jorge are welcoming diners to their four-hands collaboration to experience an authentic, personable and contemporary exploration into Mexican cuisine. The two chefs will spend time beforehand foraging in Kent’s open countryside to part source ingredients and inspiration for this new collaboration. 

The tasting menu will feature 8 creative dishes, served with an opening welcome drink from Montelobos Mezcal. Non-alcoholic options are available throughout the meal, as well as a drinks pairing using Montelobos Mezcals, or a curated selection of wines from the KOL Mezcaleria.

“As Aeromexico, we are thrilled to join forces with KOL and Quintonil to celebrate the exquisite flavours of Mexican cuisine. Through this partnership, we are not just bringing Mexico to the UK but also connecting cultures and creating unforgettable experiences. Stay tuned for more exciting collaborations as we continue this culinary journey together” noted Mark Mooren, Aeromexico’s Sales Director UK and Benelux. 

Date: 08/10/23

Times: Lunch - 12:00, Dinner - 18:00

Address: 9 Seymour St, London W1H 7BA

Free food from Chiquito for students

Mexican favourite Chiquito is putting the fiesta fun in GCSE results day by giving away FREE Garlic Tortilla Bread and Coke Zero to students celebrating their A levels and GCSEs.

No matter what your exam grades are Chiquito, known for its delicious food and tasty cocktails, will help you celebrate all your hard work and studying.

This offer entitles guests on results day (August 17 - A Level results, August 24 GCSE results) who show their exam results to a staff member to get a free portion of tasty Garlic Tortilla Bread and a regular Coke (Coke Zero, Regular Coke, Diet Coke).

The free meal offer is available only on the exam results days and additional dishes can be bought from the menu. There are no catches, you don’t have to buy anything else, just come in and have fun with Chiquito.

Chiquito's MD Andreia Harwood, said: “We recognise the cost of living crisis is still biting down on us all but we wanted to make certain our hard working student customers can celebrate their exam results day on us, totally free of charge.

"We've worked hard this summer to make sure our customers are still able to enjoy great meals out with family and friends. The summer savings and the exam results FREE offers are all about Chiquito putting our customers at the forefront of everything we do and making sure they can have an amazing summer.”

This summer Chiquito has helped families and friends with a series of super saving meal deals.

Chiquito, which has been delivering the best of Mexican cuisine for over 30 years, has two amazing ‘always on summer deals’ designed to make dining out more affordable until August 31. 

Between Monday to Friday (after 7pm) Chiquito is offering two main meals for £20, which includes delicious sizzling fajitas, tasty burritos, Tacos, chimichangas and enchiladas. This will save guests up to £15.

Chiquito is also offering a summer always on promotions two for the price of one main meals all day Sunday which will help out those dining out at the weekend. This will save guests up to £21.90.

For full terms and conditions please see: https://www.chiquito.co.uk/terms

 

Authentic Mexican street food eatery Barburrito launches exciting new menu. The twist? It's inspired by loyal customers

Ultra-authentic Mexican street food eatery Barburrito has launched an exciting and innovative new menu which is influenced by some of South America’s most popular dishes.  

Earlier this year they gathered thousands of pieces of feedback from their customers and the results inspired the creation of the new menu dishes and innovations. 

Barburrito’s talented chefs have worked very hard and tirelessly to create a selection of new mouthwatering dishes which are designed to transport your taste buds right over to Mexico. 

The menu features the introduction of Tortas, Tacos, a brand-new range of salsas as well as lots of recipe improvements and tweaks including their cheese sauce, guacamole, pink onions and many more. 

Introducing the first new dish, the Torta. It's a light, sweet bun which is filled with all your favourites (think Barbacoa Beef, Smoky Chipotle salsa, cheese, slaw, jalapeños and sour cream. Yum!) as you always choose the fillings at Barburrito. 

Another new exciting addition to the menu is Tacos, crafted with love and bursting with authentic flavours. You can create your own tacos by opting what goes inside but think of tender Pork Carnitas nestled in warm, soft tortillas, loaded with cheese, lettuce, pink onions and a new Mango & Habanero salsa. Each bite is a fine fiesta of flavours as the chefs have carefully selected the freshest ingredients and traditional spices to create a truly unforgettable experience. 

Whether you're a fan of classic favourites such as Barburrito’s Grilled Chicken or adventurous enough to try their vegan This™ Isn’t Chicken, so they’ve got something for everyone. 

Sophie Green, who has the enviable position as Barburrito's Marketing Manager of , said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new and exciting authentic menu. In May, we gathered thousands of insights from our loyal customer base to form our revamped menu, which is a celebration of the vibrant and rich culinary heritage of Mexico. 

"We’d like to thank our amigos for their help and say there'll be a lot more exciting plans for the brand coming up in each of our local stores. Join us to check out the new menu and experience a fiesta of taste sensations like never before!”  

To celebrate the launch Barburrito will be giving away free samples of nachos with their new cheese sauce and salsas and doing free food drops to local offices. They are also running a £5 new menu items offer (Tortas, Tacos, Loaded Nachos with a filling) if you have the app downloaded. 

Customers can download the app by searching ‘Barburrito Rewards’ on the app store, where they will get exclusive access to the loyalty stamp cards. Getting three stamps just for downloading, then you can earn rewards such as a free side or dessert after four stamps, free burrito after nine stamps, a free burrito on your birthday and more. Students do not get the stamp cards but get 20 per cent off every visit instead. 

Barburrito has 17 stores across the UK, from London to Aberdeen, operating dine-in, grab-and-go and delivery services. In 2005 the UK’s first burrito bar landed with Barburrito opening in Manchester Piccadilly gardens, taking inspiration from Mexico’s spirited culture, fresh ingredients, and irresistibly flavoursome food.  

They are known as well-established pioneers of the burrito game but never stop perfecting the hand made to order burrito and developing ranges of protein packed, superfood filled naked bowls. Each Barburrito store is unique, offering delicious food and incredible service with customer loyalty that just can’t be bought. 

https://www.barburrito.co.uk