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Tortillas

Served daily in Mexico, tortillas are made from whole-wheat, white, or corn flour.

These unleavened breads are flat and round and baked on a griddle. Resembling a very thin pancake, they are the everyday bread of Mexico and many Central American countries. In Spain, the word tortilla refers to a thin omelet. Their sturdiness makes them ideal for burritos and fajitas.

Varieties

Tortillas are made from whole-wheat, white, or corn flour (masa), and come in various sizes. Some may contain flavors, like spinach or red pepper.

Buying and storing tips

Buy tortillas in the bakery section, bread aisle, or refrigerated- or frozen-food sections of most health food and grocery stores. Choose the whole-grain variety whenever possible. Store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, and use within a week to ten days.

Availability

Tortillas are available year-round.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Use whole-grain tortillas as a wrapper for beans and rice. Top corn tortillas with cooked beans, diced red peppers, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of cheese—bake until cheese is bubbly.

Nutritional Highlights

Tortilla (corn), 1 tortilla (medium)
Calories: 58
Protein: 1.5g
Carbohydrate: 12g
Total Fat: 0.65g
Fiber: 1.3g

Health benefits and concerns

Health benefits and concerns for bread
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other breads. Read about health benefits and concerns for bread for a full description.