Corn tortillas are an essential ingredient for street tacos. They’re versatile, delicious, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients. However, heating the tortillas can be a bit tricky, and getting it wrong can result in a subpar taco experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the different methods for heating up corn tortillas for your street tacos, from the traditional methods to some new and creative ideas. Whether you prefer a soft and pliable tortilla or a crispy one, you’ll learn how to get it just right every time. So, let’s dive in!
Using a skillet to heat corn tortillas
When it comes to street tacos, warm and slightly crispy corn tortillas are a must-have. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by using a skillet. First, heat up the skillet on medium-high heat until it’s hot. Then, place the corn tortilla onto the skillet and let it heat up for about 15-20 seconds on each side.
To prevent your tortilla from sticking to the skillet, consider using a non-stick spray or a small amount of oil. If you prefer a softer tortilla, you can wrap it in a damp paper towel before heating it up. Once the tortilla is heated up, you can stack them on a plate and cover them with a damp cloth to keep them warm and soft until it’s time to assemble your street tacos. Using a skillet is a simple and quick method to heat up corn tortillas, making it a go-to option for many taco lovers.
How to heat corn tortillas on a griddle
Corn tortillas are an essential component of street tacos, and they must be heated correctly to maintain their texture and flavor. One of the best ways to heat corn tortillas for street tacos is on a griddle. A griddle is a flat cooking surface that allows for even heating and is perfect for heating tortillas.
To heat tortillas on a griddle, start by preheating the griddle to medium heat. Place the tortillas on the griddle and warm them for about 30 seconds on each side. To prevent the tortillas from drying out or becoming brittle, cover them with a lid or a kitchen towel to retain the moisture. Once the tortillas are heated, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel or a tortilla warmer to keep them warm until ready to use. Heating corn tortillas on a griddle is a simple and effective way to prepare them for street tacos, ensuring that they are warm, pliable, and ready to be filled with delicious taco filling.
The dos and don’ts of microwaving corn tortillas
Microwaving corn tortillas is one of the quickest ways to heat them up for street tacos. However, there are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure the tortillas remain soft and pliable. First, wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel before placing them in the microwave. This helps to prevent the tortillas from drying out and becoming brittle.
Next, be sure to microwave the tortillas in short increments of no more than 30 seconds at a time. This will prevent the tortillas from burning or becoming tough. Avoid overcooking the tortillas as this can result in a chewy texture that is difficult to work with. Lastly, once the tortillas are heated, quickly transfer them to a covered dish or tortilla warmer to keep them warm and soft until ready to serve.
Warming tortillas on an open flame: Pros and Cons
Warming tortillas on an open flame is a traditional method used by street vendors in Mexico and it adds smoky flavors to the tortilla. This technique involves heating up your tortillas directly on a gas stove or a grill, giving them a charred flavor and crispy texture which is preferred by many taco enthusiasts.
However, there are also some cons to this method. For starters, it can be quite dangerous as the tortillas may catch on fire if left too long on the flame. In addition, those with sensitive taste palettes may not enjoy the smoky flavor that results from the charred tortillas. It also takes some practice to heat the tortillas evenly to avoid burning or undercooking them. Overall, this method may need a bit of mastering but it can result in delicious and authentic street-style tacos.
Steaming corn tortillas: A traditional Mexican method
Steaming corn tortillas is one of the traditional ways to heat them up for street tacos. To steam corn tortillas, stack them, then wrap them in a damp kitchen towel or paper towel. Place the wrapped stack in a heat-safe dish, and cover the dish tightly with a lid or foil. Then, place the dish in a steamer basket or sieve over a pot of boiling water.
Alternatively, you can also use a microwave to steam tortillas. Stack them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for around 30 seconds, then remove the plate from the microwave and let the tortillas sit for a few minutes to finish steaming. Steaming corn tortillas helps to make them soft and pliable, making it easier to wrap them around your favorite taco fillings.
Keeping tortillas warm prior to serving
Keeping tortillas warm prior to serving is crucial when it comes to serving street tacos. To keep tortillas warm, you can use a tortilla warmer or a traditional Mexican basket called a “tortillero.” Tortilla warmers are convenient and effective as they keep tortillas warm and moist. They are usually made of ceramic or plastic and come in various sizes to accommodate different numbers of tortillas. Just pop your tortillas in the warmer, microwave for a few seconds, and you’re good to go.
On the other hand, if you want an authentic feel, you can go for a tortillero. These are beautifully woven baskets that come in different sizes and designs. They are handmade and traditionally used in Mexican households to keep tortillas warm. To use one, place your warm tortillas inside and cover with a decorative cloth or lid. Your tortillas will stay warm and ready to serve for a long time. No matter what option you choose, keeping your corn tortillas warm will ensure that your street tacos are served at the best possible temperature.
Tips and tricks for perfectly heated corn tortillas
Perfectly heated corn tortillas are integral to creating delicious street tacos. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your tortillas are heated perfectly every time.
First, make sure to heat your tortillas directly on a hot, dry skillet or comal. This will allow for a crispy exterior and warm interior. You can also wrap them in a damp towel and microwave for about 30 seconds, but this may cause them to become soggy rather than crispy. Secondly, if you’re heating a large quantity of tortillas, consider using a tortilla warmer. This will keep them at an even temperature and prevent them from drying out. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different heating methods to find your perfect tortilla. Some people even recommend grilling them for a smoky flavor. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create perfectly heated corn tortillas for your street tacos every time.
Final Words
In conclusion, heating corn tortillas for street tacos is a simple yet crucial step in making delicious tacos. While there are several methods you can use to heat your tortillas, it is important to choose one that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the traditional method of heating them on the stovetop or using a microwave, it is important to keep the tortillas warm and soft until you are ready to serve.
Overall, the key to heating corn tortillas is to make sure they stay warm and pliable. This can be achieved by wrapping them in a towel or placing them in a warm oven. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your tacos are not only delicious but also authentic. So, next time you’re making tacos at home, don’t forget to heat your tortillas – your taste buds will thank you!