Are Corn Tortillas Vegan?

Corn tortillas are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine and have found their way into kitchens around the world. But for those following a vegan lifestyle, questions often arise about the ingredients used in these versatile tortillas. In this guide, we’ll explore the world of corn tortillas and answer the question: Are corn tortillas vegan?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we delve into the vegan aspect, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty of homemade corn tortillas. There’s something deeply satisfying about crafting these tortillas from scratch, and it’s an accomplishment that brings joy to cooks of all levels.

But that’s not all—these corn tortillas offer several more reasons to love them:

Tortilla Puff

One of the hallmarks of a perfectly cooked corn tortilla is the delightful puff that occurs during cooking. We’ll share tips on how to achieve this tortilla puff, ensuring that your tortillas have a properly cooked center every time.

Healthy Choice

For health-conscious individuals, corn tortillas are a natural choice. They are inherently vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free, making them a versatile option for a variety of diets.

Versatile

From classic tacos to hearty quesadillas, the uses for these corn tortillas in your kitchen are virtually limitless. Get ready to explore a world of culinary possibilities!

What Are Corn Tortillas?

Corn tortillas are a fundamental component of Mexican cuisine, accompanying almost every meal. Traditionally, they are made by nixtamalizing corn (a process of cooking dried corn in an alkaline solution), which is then ground into a wet dough known as masa. Today, masa harina, a special type of corn flour, simplifies this process.

Once cooked, these golden circles boast a unique nutty flavor and a soft, tender texture. You can enjoy them with a simple sprinkling of salt or use them as a base for various dishes, including tacos, empanadas, quesadillas, and homemade totopos (tortilla chips).

The History of Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas have a rich history dating back thousands of years. During the Aztec era, they were consumed plain, dipped in chile sauce, or filled with a range of ingredients, from meats to vegetables and beans.

Originally known as “tlaxcalli” in the Nahuatl language, these flatbreads were later given the name “tortilla” by the Spaniards, derived from the Spanish word “tort,” meaning “cake.” To this day, corn tortillas remain a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine.

Are Corn Tortillas Vegan?

Now, let’s address the central question: Are corn tortillas vegan? The answer is yes, corn tortillas are naturally vegan-friendly. They are typically made using a straightforward combination of nixtamalized corn, water, and sometimes salt. This simplicity aligns perfectly with a vegan diet.

However, it’s essential to note that some tortillerías (tortilla shops) may add lard to their tortillas, so if you’re purchasing them from a shop, it’s wise to double-check the ingredients.

Ingredients & Substitutions

To make these delicious vegan corn tortillas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Masa Harina: For the best-quality heirloom corn masa harina, consider brands like Masienda. You can also find masa harina on Amazon or at a local Mexican food market.
• Salt: A pinch of fine-ground salt adds depth to the flavor.
• Water: Warm water helps bind the masa harina and gives the tortillas their flexibility. The exact amount may vary based on your specific masa harina, altitude, and humidity.

For detailed instructions and measurements, refer to our recipe card below.

How to Make Corn Tortillas

Making corn tortillas from scratch is a rewarding process. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

• Whisk masa harina and salt in a mixing bowl.
• Gradually add hot water and mix with a spatula until the dough is cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Knead the Masa

• Knead the dough with your hands until you form a ball that’s sticky enough to hold together without excessive sticking to your hands.
• If the dough appears crumbly, add water incrementally until you achieve a playdough-like consistency. For overly sticky dough, incorporate more masa harina.

Step 3: Roll the Dough

• Break off pieces of dough and form small balls, roughly 40 grams each.
• Roll each ball between your palms until smooth, ready to be pressed into tortillas.

Step 4: Press the Tortillas

• Place a dough ball in the center of a tortilla press lined with cut pieces of a freezer bag. Press down to form thin tortillas.
• If you don’t have a tortilla press, you can use a rolling pin or press the dough ball between the counter and the bottom of a baking dish.

Step 5: Cook the Tortillas

• Cook the tortillas on a hot cast-iron skillet or comal for about 10 seconds on the first side.
• Flip them and cook for 40-50 seconds on the second side. Look for the tortilla to puff slightly.
• If the tortilla doesn’t puff up, add a little more water to the dough and let them cook longer.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas

• Keep the cooked corn tortillas wrapped in a tea towel or tortilla warmer while you prepare the rest.

For a more detailed recipe with measurements and additional tips, refer to the full recipe card below.

How to Serve Corn Tortillas

The beauty of corn tortillas lies in their versatility. You can pair them with a wide range of Mexican-style dishes, including:

• Tacos: Explore a world of taco possibilities, from classic options like al pastor and jackfruit carnitas to vegan birria tacos and more.
• Enchiladas: Create mouthwatering enchiladas, whether you prefer them with red or green sauce.
• Quesadillas: For a traditional twist, try squash blossom quesadillas or sweet potato black bean quesadillas.
• Salsa: Whip up some totopos (tortilla chips) to accompany your favorite salsas, such as mango salsa, salsa ranchera, salsa fresca, or salsa roja.

Storage & Reheating

If you want to keep your corn tortillas warm or have leftovers, here are some storage and reheating tips:

• Keep Warm: Wrap the corn tortillas in a tea towel or tortilla warmer to trap steam and maintain their softness.
• Fridge: Store corn tortillas in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze corn tortillas in a freezer-safe container or bag for 6-8 months. To use, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Reheat tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until they are warm and pliable.
• Prep Ahead: While it’s best to make the dough fresh, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.

Variations

Get creative with your corn tortillas by trying these variations:

• Herb-Infused: Add chopped cilantro, Mexican oregano, or parsley to your dough.
• Spiced: Mix in a pinch of ancho powder, cayenne, or paprika for color and flavor.
• Lime Zest: Infuse a refreshing citrus note by adding freshly zested lime.
• Chipotle: Add smoky and spicy depth with chipotles in adobo.
• Make Chips: Don’t let stale tortillas go to waste; turn them into chips for chilaquiles.

Top Tips for Perfect Corn Tortillas

For the best results when making corn tortillas, consider these tips:

• Use Warm Water: Warm water is crucial for achieving a flexible and pliable dough texture.
• Consistency: Adjust the water content as needed based on your masa harina and environmental conditions. Aim for a playdough-like consistency.
• Press Firmly: Whether using a press or rolling pin, press or roll the tortillas until they are very thin for even cooking.
• Watch for the Curl: Wait for the edges of the tortillas to curl slightly before flipping them for the first time to prevent sticking.
• Tortilla Puff: A puff in the tortilla signifies proper cooking in the center. If your tortillas aren’t puffing, gently press them as they cook or add more water to the masa.

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers about corn tortillas:

Q: Why is my dough crumbly? A: Crumbly dough often results from insufficient water. Add water incrementally until you achieve the desired consistency.

Q: Can I use a regular rolling pin? A: Absolutely! A rolling pin can effectively substitute for a tortilla press. You can also use the bottom of a heavy pan or cast-iron skillet.

Q: Do I need to oil the pan while cooking tortillas? A: No, you don’t need to use oil when cooking corn tortillas. They are traditionally cooked on a dry surface (comal), which yields excellent results.

Q: Why aren’t my tortillas puffing up? A: If your tortillas aren’t puffing, it could be due to dry dough, uneven tortilla thickness, or pan temperature. Ensure your dough is moist, preheat your skillet, and apply even pressure to the tortillas during cooking.

Q: Can I use cold water instead of warm? A: While you can technically use cold water, warm water is preferable as it helps hydrate the masa harina more effectively.

In conclusion, corn tortillas are a vegan-friendly delight that can elevate your culinary creations. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, making your own corn tortillas is a rewarding experience. These naturally vegan tortillas open the door to a world of delicious possibilities. Enjoy your plant-based meals with the knowledge that corn tortillas are a delightful addition to your vegan repertoire.

For more culinary inspiration and to explore a variety of vegan-friendly options, visit Crooked Beverage Co. Embrace the world of veganism, one tortilla at a time!