What To Know
- If you are using a tortilla press, be sure to press the tortillas gently and evenly.
- If you are using a tortilla press, be sure to press the tortillas gently and evenly.
- If you don’t have a tortilla warmer, you can wrap tortillas in a damp towel to keep them moist.
Corn tortillas are a staple of Mexican cuisine, but they can be frustratingly fragile. If you’ve ever experienced the disappointment of a tortilla breaking while you’re trying to fill it, you know how annoying it can be. But why do corn tortillas break?
Causes of Tortilla Breakage
There are several factors that can contribute to corn tortillas breaking:
1. Moisture Content
Tortillas need to be moist enough to be flexible, but not so moist that they become soggy. If the tortillas are too dry, they will be brittle and more likely to break. On the other hand, if the tortillas are too wet, they will be sticky and difficult to handle.
2. Cooking Temperature
Tortillas should be cooked at a high temperature to help them set and become firm. If the tortillas are cooked at a low temperature, they will be soft and more likely to break.
3. Cooking Time
Tortillas should be cooked for just long enough to set and become firm. If the tortillas are cooked for too long, they will become dry and brittle.
4. Handling
Tortillas should be handled carefully to avoid tearing or breaking. If you are using a tortilla press, be sure to press the tortillas gently and evenly. When filling tortillas, be sure to support the tortilla with your hand to prevent it from breaking.
5. Storage
Tortillas should be stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. If tortillas are stored in the refrigerator, they should be warmed before using.
How to Prevent Tortillas from Breaking
There are several things you can do to prevent corn tortillas from breaking:
1. Use fresh tortillas.
Fresh tortillas are more moist and flexible than older tortillas. If you are using store-bought tortillas, be sure to check the expiration date.
2. Warm the tortillas before using.
Warming tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to break. You can warm tortillas in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
3. Cook the tortillas at a high temperature.
Cooking tortillas at a high temperature helps them to set and become firm. If you are using a skillet, be sure to heat the skillet over high heat before adding the tortillas.
4. Cook the tortillas for just long enough to set.
Tortillas should be cooked for just long enough to set and become firm. If the tortillas are cooked for too long, they will become dry and brittle.
5. Handle the tortillas carefully.
Tortillas should be handled carefully to avoid tearing or breaking. If you are using a tortilla press, be sure to press the tortillas gently and evenly. When filling tortillas, be sure to support the tortilla with your hand to prevent it from breaking.
6. Store the tortillas properly.
Tortillas should be stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. If tortillas are stored in the refrigerator, they should be warmed before using.
Other Tips for Working with Corn Tortillas
Here are a few other tips for working with corn tortillas:
1. Use a tortilla warmer.
A tortilla warmer is a great way to keep tortillas warm and moist. Tortilla warmers are available at most kitchenware stores.
2. Use a damp towel.
If you don’t have a tortilla warmer, you can wrap tortillas in a damp towel to keep them moist.
3. Rehydrate dry tortillas.
If your tortillas are dry, you can rehydrate them by wrapping them in a damp towel and microwaving them for 30 seconds.
The Bottom Line: Why Corn Tortillas Break
Now that you know why corn tortillas break, you can take steps to prevent it from happening. By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy delicious, fresh corn tortillas every time.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Why are my corn tortillas dry?
Corn tortillas can become dry if they are not stored properly or if they are cooked for too long.
2. How can I make my corn tortillas more pliable?
You can make your corn tortillas more pliable by warming them before using or by rehydrating them with a damp towel.
3. Can I freeze corn tortillas?
Yes, you can freeze corn tortillas. To freeze corn tortillas, wrap them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 3 months.
