The art of making tortillas is an important tradition in Mexican cuisine. For generations, families have been making their own tortillas by hand, using a simple mixture of corn masa and water. While a tortilla press is not a necessary tool for making tortillas, it can make the process much easier and more efficient.
Choosing a Tortilla Press
There are many types of tortilla presses available on the market, ranging from traditional cast iron presses to modern electric models. However, for the purposes of this article, we will be focusing on handmade tortilla presses.
A handmade tortilla press is a beautiful and functional tool that is typically made from wood. These presses are often created by local artisans in Mexico and other Latin American countries. They come in a variety of sizes and designs, but the basic function is the same: to flatten balls of masa into thin, round tortillas.
When choosing a handmade tortilla press, it is important to consider the size and weight of the press. A larger press may be more suitable for making larger tortillas, but it may also be heavier and more difficult to use. It is also important to choose a press that is well-made and sturdy, with a smooth surface to prevent the masa from sticking.
Preparing the Masa
The key ingredient in making tortillas is masa, which is a dough made from ground corn that has been treated with lime. Masa can be purchased pre-made at many grocery stores, or it can be made from scratch by soaking dried corn kernels in a lime solution, then grinding the kernels into a dough.
To make tortillas with a handmade press, start by preparing the masa. Place the masa in a bowl and add warm water a little at a time, mixing with your hands until the dough is smooth and pliable. The dough should be slightly sticky, but not so much that it sticks to your hands.
Once the masa is prepared, divide it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. Cover the balls with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
Using the Tortilla Press
To use a handmade tortilla press, start by heating a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Place a ball of masa on the press and cover it with a piece of plastic or wax paper. Press down on the handle of the press to flatten the masa into a thin, round tortilla.
Remove the tortilla from the press and gently peel off the plastic or wax paper. Place the tortilla on the hot griddle or skillet and cook for about 30 seconds on each side, or until lightly browned and cooked through.
Repeat the process with the remaining balls of masa, stacking the cooked tortillas on a plate and covering them with a towel to keep them warm.
Tips for Making Perfect Tortillas
Making perfect tortillas takes practice, but there are some tips that can help make the process easier:
- Use warm water when making the masa. This will help the dough come together more easily and prevent it from cracking or tearing.
- Don’t overwork the masa. Mix it just until it comes together and is smooth, then stop. Overworking the masa can make it tough and difficult to shape.
- Cover the masa balls with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. This will make them easier to shape and press.
- Use a plastic or wax paper to prevent the masa from sticking to the press. This will also make it easier to remove the tortilla from the press without tearing it.
- Cook the tortillas on a hot griddle or skillet. This will help them cook evenly and develop a nice, golden brown color.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the thickness of the tortillas. If they are too thin, they may tear or break when cooking. If they are too thick, they may not cook through properly.
- Keep the tortillas warm and covered until serving. This will prevent them from drying out and becoming hard.
Making tortillas with a handmade press is a beautiful and rewarding tradition that has been passed down through generations of Mexican families. While it takes practice to make perfect tortillas, the process is simple and requires only a few basic ingredients and tools.
Whether you choose to use a traditional cast iron press or a handmade wooden press, the key to making great tortillas is in the masa. Use high-quality masa, mix it just until it comes together, and be gentle when shaping and pressing the tortillas.
With a little practice and patience, you can master the art of making tortillas and enjoy the rich tradition of Mexican cuisine in your own home.
