The name for the popular Mexican dish, a rolled tortilla filled with various ingredients, translates directly from Spanish as “little donkey.” The term refers to a small pack animal, alluding to the resemblance between the rolled-up food and the bedrolls or packs that donkeys traditionally carried. This association hints at the portable nature of the food.
The etymology suggests that the burrito was conceived as a convenient and easily transportable meal. This convenience likely played a significant role in its popularity, particularly amongst laborers and travelers who needed a sustaining and readily available food source. The term’s literal translation thus provides insight into the historical context and intended use of the dish.
