A tortilla is a thin, flat unleavened bread traditionally made from corn or wheat flour that is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Corn tortillas are made from masa harina (corn dough), while flour tortillas are made from all-purpose flour, water, fat, and salt.
The tortilla has origins that date back to ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where native peoples such as the Aztecs and Mayans consumed them as a part of their diet. The use of corn dates back thousands of years, and tortillas have since become an integral part of Mexican and Central American cuisine, with their use spreading globally.
Tortillas have a mild, slightly nutty flavor, especially when made from corn. The flavor can vary depending on the type of flour used for the wheat tortillas, with businesses and home cooks adding flavors or seasonings in some variations.
Masa Harina
A type of flour made from corn that has been treated with lime (nixtamalization), used to prepare corn tortillas.
All-Purpose Flour
A versatile flour made from a mixture of hard and soft wheat, commonly used in wheat tortillas.
Water
Essential for combining with dry ingredients to form the dough.
Salt
Used to enhance the flavor of the tortillas.
Fat (optional)
Often lard, shortening, or vegetable oil, added to wheat tortillas to enhance texture and flavor.
Gluten
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