Tortilla presses are a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for more than just making tortillas. Whether you have a traditional cast iron press or a modern electric one, there are plenty of ways to put it to use in your kitchen. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Making flatbreads
Tortilla presses are perfect for making flatbreads like naan, pita, and lavash. Simply roll the dough into balls and press them into flat circles using the press. You may need to adjust the thickness setting on your press depending on the recipe, but most flatbreads will cook up beautifully using a tortilla press.
Pressing tofu
Tofu can be tricky to press evenly, but a tortilla press makes it easy. Simply slice the tofu into even pieces and place them between two pieces of parchment paper. Press them down with the tortilla press and you’ll have evenly compressed tofu that will cook up perfectly.
Making quesadillas
Quesadillas are a classic Mexican dish that’s easy to make using a tortilla press. Simply place a tortilla on the press, add your desired fillings (like cheese, beans, and veggies), top with another tortilla, and press down to seal. Cook on a griddle or in a skillet until both sides are crispy and the cheese is melted.
Pressing burgers
If you’re looking for a way to make perfectly uniform burger patties, a tortilla press can help. Place a ball of ground meat on the press and press down to form a patty. You can also use the press to flatten pre-made patties to your desired thickness.
Making empanadas
Empanadas are a popular Latin American pastry that can be filled with a variety of savory or sweet fillings. Use your tortilla press to make perfectly round circles of dough, then add your fillings and fold the dough over to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork and bake until golden brown.
Pressing panini sandwiches
If you love panini sandwiches but don’t have a panini press, fear not. A tortilla press can be used to press your sandwiches and give them that coveted crispy exterior. Simply layer your ingredients on bread, place the sandwich on the press, and press down to compress. Cook on a griddle or in a skillet until both sides are golden brown.
Making dumplings
Dumplings are a popular Asian dish that can be steamed, boiled, or pan-fried. Use your tortilla press to flatten circles of dough for the dumpling wrappers, then add your filling and fold the dough over to seal. You can also use the press to flatten the dough for potstickers or gyoza.
Pressing bacon
If you’re tired of bacon that curls up in the pan and cooks unevenly, try using your tortilla press to keep it flat. Place the bacon between two pieces of parchment paper and press down with the tortilla press. Cook the bacon on a griddle or in a skillet until crispy and evenly cooked.
Making pizza crusts
If you love homemade pizza but struggle with getting the crust just right, a tortilla press can help. Use it to press out a thin, even crust that will cook up crispy in the oven. You can also use the press to make mini pizza crusts for individual-sized pizzas.
Pressing tofu or meat for jerky
If you enjoy making your own jerky, a tortilla press can help you achieve a consistent thickness in your meat or tofu strips. Simply place the strips between two pieces of parchment paper and press down with the press. Marinate and dehydrate as usual for delicious homemade jerky.
Making chapatis
Chapatis are a type of Indian flatbread that are similar to tortillas. Use your tortilla press to flatten the dough and then cook them on a griddle or in a skillet. Brush them with ghee or butter for added flavor.
Crushing cookies and crackers
If you need crushed cookies or crackers for a pie crust or dessert topping, a tortilla press can do the job quickly and easily. Place the cookies or crackers in a plastic bag and press them with the tortilla press until they’re the desired consistency.
Making arepas
Arepas are a popular South American dish that’s similar to tortillas but made with cornmeal instead of flour. Use your tortilla press to flatten the dough and then cook them on a griddle or in a skillet. Fill them with cheese, beans, or other delicious fillings.
In conclusion, a tortilla press is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of cooking tasks beyond just making tortillas. With a little creativity, you can use your press to make a wide range of dishes, from flatbreads and empanadas to pizza crusts and jerky. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to discover new ways to use your tortilla press in the kitchen.
