Are you a fan of burritos? If so, you may have tried Al Pastor, a delicious Mexican dish that is popular in many places. However, did you know that a single serving of Al Pastor burrito contains around 720 calories? That's quite high for a single meal. But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Al Pastor burrito, including its nutritional information and ways to reduce its calorie count.

Before we dive into the details, let's take a look at the ingredients and nutritional value of an Al Pastor burrito. Typically, an Al Pastor burrito contains marinated pork, beans, rice, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole, all wrapped in a flour tortilla. It's a delicious and satisfying meal, but it can also be quite heavy. In a single serving of burrito, you'll consume around 720 calories, 25g of fat, 97g of carbohydrates, and 25g of protein.

If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, Al Pastor burrito may not be the best choice. However, you don't have to give up on it entirely! In the following sections, we'll explore some tips and strategies to enjoy this delicious dish without sabotaging your diet. Let's get started!

Calories per serving

As mentioned earlier, a single serving of Al Pastor burrito contains around 720 calories. This is quite high for a single meal and can easily exceed your daily calorie intake if you're not careful. However, the exact calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients and serving size of the burrito. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of your portion size and the ingredients you choose. Opt for a smaller size burrito or skip some of the high-calorie toppings such as sour cream and cheese. You can also ask for more vegetables and fiber-rich ingredients such as beans and lettuce to make the burrito more filling and satisfying.

Ingredients in the burrito

As mentioned earlier, an Al Pastor burrito typically contains marinated pork, beans, rice, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole, all wrapped in a flour tortilla. Let's take a closer look at the nutritional value of each ingredient. Marinated pork is a good source of protein but also contains a fair amount of fat and calories. Beans are a good source of fiber and protein and can make the burrito more filling. Rice is a source of carbohydrates but can also be high in calories if not portioned properly. Cheese and sour cream are high in fat and calories, so it's best to use them sparingly. Guacamole is a good source of healthy fats but can also add to the calorie count of the burrito. Overall, Al Pastor burrito can be a balanced and nutritious meal if you choose your ingredients wisely and watch your portion size.

Types of meats in Al Pastor Burrito

Al Pastor is traditionally made with marinated pork that is slow-cooked on a spit. However, some restaurants may offer alternative options such as chicken or beef. These meats can also be delicious and nutritious, but remember to check the nutritional information and portion size before ordering.

Does the burrito contain any allergens?

Al Pastor burrito may contain allergens such as gluten, dairy, and soy. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, it's important to check with the restaurant and ask about the ingredients and preparation methods. Some restaurants may offer gluten-free or vegetarian options to accommodate your dietary needs.

What type of tortilla is used in the burrito?

Al Pastor burrito is typically wrapped in a flour tortilla, but some restaurants may offer alternative options such as whole wheat or corn tortillas. These options can be lower in calories and higher in fiber, which can make the burrito more filling and nutritious. However, it's important to check the nutritional information and portion size before making your choice.

How to make a homemade Al Pastor Burrito?

If you prefer to make your own Al Pastor burrito at home, here's a simple recipe you can try:

• 1 lb. pork shoulder, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp. chili powder
• 1 tbsp. paprika
• 1 tbsp. cumin
• 1 tbsp. dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flour tortillas
• Beans, rice, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole for toppings

1. In a bowl, mix together the pork, pineapple, onion, garlic, chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to overnight in the fridge. 2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the pork mixture. Cook until the pork is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. 3. Warm the flour tortillas in the oven or microwave. 4. Assemble your burrito by adding the pork mixture, beans, rice, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole to the tortilla. Roll it up tightly and enjoy!

Comparison with other burritos

How does Al Pastor burrito compare to other popular burritos? Let's take a look at the calorie count of some popular options:

• Chicken burrito: around 700 calories
• Beef burrito: around 900 calories
• Vegetable burrito: around 500 calories

As you can see, Al Pastor burrito is on the higher end of the calorie spectrum. However, it can also be a filling and satisfying meal if you make the right choices.

Can the burrito be customized?

Yes, you can customize your Al Pastor burrito to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some tips:

• Choose a smaller size burrito
• Skip high-calorie toppings such as sour cream and cheese
• Add more vegetables such as lettuce and tomatoes
• Opt for whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour
• Ask for less rice or skip it entirely
• Use salsa or hot sauce instead of high-calorie dressings

Where can you buy Al Pastor Burritos?

Al Pastor burritos can be found in many Mexican restaurants and fast-food chains. Some popular options include Chipotle, Qdoba, and Taco Bell. You can also try making your own at home using the recipe we shared earlier.

How to reduce the calorie count in Al Pastor Burrito?

If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, here are some tips to reduce the calorie count in your Al Pastor burrito:

• Choose a smaller size burrito
• Skip high-calorie toppings such as sour cream and cheese
• Use salsa or hot sauce instead of high-calorie dressings
• Opt for more vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers
• Try making your own burrito at home using leaner meats and healthier ingredients
• Share your burrito with a friend or save half for later