Tortilla
A tortilla is a thin, unleavened flatbread, traditionally made from nixtamalized corn (masa harina) or wheat flour. Corn tortillas, with their slightly earthy and subtly sweet flavor, offer a tender yet slightly chewy texture. Wheat tortillas, on the other hand, are typically softer and more pliable with a milder flavor. Both varieties range in color from pale yellow to off-white, depending on the ingredients used. They are a staple in Mexican cuisine and widely used in various dishes across different cultures, offering a versatile and convenient way to wrap and enjoy a variety of fillings. Finding the right tortilla size and type is key to the perfect taco, burrito or quesadilla.
Common Uses
- Create delicious and authentic tacos by warming tortillas and filling them with seasoned meats, vegetables, and your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Prepare hearty burritos by wrapping warm tortillas around fillings like rice, beans, cheese, and protein such as grilled chicken, carnitas, or carne asada.
- Make quick and easy quesadillas by melting cheese and other ingredients between two tortillas on a griddle or skillet until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Bake crispy tortilla chips by cutting tortillas into wedges, brushing them with oil, seasoning them with salt and spices, and baking until golden brown and crunchy. These are perfect for dipping in salsa or guacamole.
- Craft flavorful enchiladas by filling tortillas with cheese, meat, or vegetables, rolling them up, and covering them with enchilada sauce before baking until bubbly and heated through.
- Use tortillas to make tortilla soup. Cut tortillas into strips or squares and fry them until crispy to serve as a crunchy topping for the soup, adding texture and flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
92.0kcal (4.6%)
Protein
2.6g (5.14%)
Carbs
15.8g (5.74%)
Sugars
0.4g (0.82%)
Healthy Fat
1.4g
Unhealthy Fat
0.4g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
92.0kcal (4.6%)
Protein
2.6g (5.14%)
Carbs
15.8g (5.74%)
Sugars
0.4g (0.82%)
Healthy Fat
1.4g
Unhealthy Fat
0.4g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Can be a source of fiber, especially whole wheat or corn tortillas, promoting digestive health.
- Low in fat, especially when baked or air-fried.
- Some tortillas are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals like iron and folic acid.
- Can be part of a balanced diet when paired with lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
To maintain freshness, store tortillas in their original packaging or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for a short period, usually up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them; this will extend their shelf life to several weeks. You can also freeze tortillas for several months. To prevent sticking, separate them with parchment paper before freezing. Thaw frozen tortillas in the refrigerator or at room temperature before use. Warm them on a dry skillet or in the microwave for optimal taste and texture.
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