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Dry Heat: Toasting Tortillas on Open Flame

Toasting tortillas on an open flame is a time-honored technique that imparts a smoky, charred flavor while maintaining the tortilla's pliability. This method is a staple in many Mexican kitchens, bringing an authentic touch to dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. The key to mastering this technique lies in understanding the balance between heat and timing. Too little heat and your tortilla will remain limp and unflavored; too much, and it will become brittle and burnt. By following a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly toasted tortillas that are soft, flexible, and bursting with smoky essence. The open flame creates tiny pockets of caramelized flavor, enhancing the tortilla's natural taste. Whether you're using a gas stove, campfire, or a dedicated tortilla warmer with an open flame feature, this method is straightforward and yields impressive results. This technique is not just about cooking; it's about transforming ordinary tortillas into vessels of flavor that elevate any meal.

Notes

The science behind toasting tortillas on an open flame is simple yet fascinating. The direct heat quickly evaporates moisture, while the flame's infrared radiation caramelizes sugars on the surface, creating the coveted smoky flavor. A common mistake is holding the tortilla too close to the flame, resulting in burnt spots rather than even toasting. To avoid this, maintain a consistent distance and rotate frequently. Safety is paramount; always use tongs to handle tortillas and keep a lid nearby to smother any unexpected flare-ups. For make-ahead meals, toasted tortillas can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore their pliability.

Steps

  1. 1 Ensure your tortillas are at room temperature for even cooking.
  2. 2 Turn on the gas burner to medium-high heat to create a steady flame.
  3. 3 Using tongs, hold a tortilla parallel to the flame, about 2 inches away.
  4. 4 Toast one side for 10-15 seconds, watching for small bubbles and light browning.
  5. 5 Rotate the tortilla to toast the other side, adjusting distance if browning too quickly.
  6. 6 Gently press the tortilla with tongs to create slight char marks without burning.
  7. 7 Flip the tortilla to repeat the process on the opposite side.
  8. 8 Once both sides are toasted and pliable, remove from the flame.
  9. 9 Wrap the toasted tortilla in a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm and soft.
  10. 10 Repeat with remaining tortillas, ensuring each gets consistent heat exposure.
  11. 11 Adjust flame height as needed to maintain control over the toasting process.
  12. 12 Check tortillas frequently to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
  13. 13 Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredients to explore

All-Purpose Flour

All-purpose flour is a versatile wheat flour that contains a moderate level of protein and gluten, making it suitable for a wide range of baking and cooking needs.

Advieh (Persian Spice Blend)

Advieh is a fragrant Persian spice blend that boasts a complex aroma of warm cinnamon, earthy cumin, and floral hints of rose and saffron. Its texture is finely ground, making it easy to incorporate into dishes. Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Iran, advieh adds depth and sophistication to both savory and sweet recipes. Its unique combination of spices reflects the historical spice trade routes that influenced Persian cuisine.

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