Tortillas are traditionally unleavened flatbreads or pancakes that are made of either corn or wheat flour, water, vegetable shortening and a little salt.
Corn tortillas date back around 10,000 years before Christ and were made of corn with dried kernels.
The word “tortilla” comes from the Spanish word “torta” which means “round cake.” When the Spanish brought wheat to the New World, flour tortillas were created.
Modern tortillas are made from whole wheat flour, spelt flour, sprouted grains or gluten-free flour blends. They are the fastest growing sector of the U.S. baking industry.
Packaged tortillas should be stored in a cool dry environment not susceptible to temperature change. Temperature changes can make the moisture in the air condense inside the packages, which leads mold to grow and tortillas to spoil.
A refrigerator is highly recommended (but not required) to extend the shelf life of tortillas.
When making homemade tortillas (they are actually so easy!), you can keep them fresh longer by storing them in your refrigerator below 40 °F.
Cut tortillas into small pieces then drizzle with a high-heat oil such as sunflower or canola; bake at 400 °F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy. Use as a topping for salads, slaws, soups, stews or chilis.
For a tortilla pizza, bake a tortilla in the oven, top with pasta sauce, grated cheese and your favorite toppings; broil or bake to melt the cheese and serve.
Make a dessert! Stuff warmed tortillas with berries, whipped cream, ice cream, non-dairy frozen dessert, lemon curd, sliced fresh apples, or your favorite fruit.
Place five or fewer tortillas on a microwavable plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second bursts until they are warmed through.
Wrap five or fewer tortillas together in a packet of aluminum foil and put it in an oven pre-heated at 350° for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
Char the tortillas directly over your gas burner for a few seconds using tongs. This works best when the tortillas are very fresh.
Tortillas serve as a source of dietary fiber.
Tortillas benefit your circulation by boosting your iron intake.
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