Street tacos have become increasingly popular worldwide, and one of the key components that make them so delicious is the corn tortilla. However, cooking corn tortillas can be a bit tricky, especially for those who are new to Mexican cuisine. In this article, we will explore the different methods of cooking corn tortillas for street tacos, including grilling, pan-frying, and microwaving.
Understanding Corn Tortillas
Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to understand what corn tortillas are and how they are made. Corn tortillas are made from corn masa, water, and a pinch of salt. The corn masa is typically made from dried and ground corn kernels that have been soaked in limewater to remove the hulls. This process, known as nixtamalization, makes the corn more easily grindable and increases its nutritional value.
The Importance of Using the Right Type of Corn Tortillas
When it comes to cooking corn tortillas for street tacos, it’s crucial to use the right type of tortillas. Look for tortillas that are made from 100% corn masa and do not contain any additives or preservatives. These tortillas will have a more authentic flavor and texture.
Grilling Corn Tortillas
Grilling corn tortillas is a popular method for cooking them, especially for street tacos. This method adds a smoky flavor to the tortillas and gives them a slightly charred texture.
How to Grill Corn Tortillas
To grill corn tortillas, follow these steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place a corn tortilla on the grill and cook for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Tips for Grilling Corn Tortillas
- Make sure to preheat your grill before cooking the tortillas.
- Use a pair of tongs to flip the tortillas, as they can be delicate.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the tortillas to steam instead of grill.
Pan-Frying Corn Tortillas
Pan-frying corn tortillas is another popular method for cooking them. This method adds a crispy texture to the tortillas and can be used to cook them in large quantities.
How to Pan-Fry Corn Tortillas
To pan-fry corn tortillas, follow these steps:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add a small amount of oil to the pan and swirl it around.
- Place a corn tortilla in the pan and cook for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Tips for Pan-Frying Corn Tortillas
- Use a large skillet or frying pan to cook the tortillas in batches.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the tortillas to steam instead of fry.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
Microwaving Corn Tortillas
Microwaving corn tortillas is a quick and easy method for cooking them. This method is ideal for cooking small quantities of tortillas.
How to Microwave Corn Tortillas
To microwave corn tortillas, follow these steps:
- Place a corn tortilla in the microwave and cook for about 20-30 seconds.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Tips for Microwaving Corn Tortillas
- Use a microwave-safe plate to cook the tortillas.
- Don’t overcrowd the microwave, as this can cause the tortillas to steam instead of cook evenly.
- Use a timer to ensure the tortillas are cooked for the right amount of time.
Assembling Street Tacos
Once you have cooked your corn tortillas, it’s time to assemble your street tacos. Here are some popular toppings for street tacos:
- Carnitas (slow-cooked pork)
- Al pastor (spit-roasted pork)
- Carne asada (grilled beef)
- Pollo (grilled chicken)
- Vegetarian options (such as grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted sweet potatoes)
How to Assemble Street Tacos
To assemble street tacos, follow these steps:
- Place a cooked corn tortilla on a flat surface.
- Add your desired toppings to the tortilla.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Assembling Street Tacos
- Use a variety of toppings to add texture and flavor to your tacos.
- Don’t overload the tortillas, as this can cause them to break.
- Serve the tacos immediately, as this will ensure the tortillas are still warm and pliable.
In conclusion, cooking corn tortillas for street tacos is a simple process that requires some practice and patience. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can create delicious and authentic street tacos that will impress your friends and family. Remember to use the right type of corn tortillas, cook them using the right method, and assemble the tacos with a variety of toppings. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to cook corn tortillas for street tacos?
Cooking corn tortillas for street tacos can be done in a few ways, but the most popular method is grilling or dry cooking them on a griddle or comal. This method gives the tortillas a slightly charred flavor and a pliable texture that’s perfect for wrapping around your favorite taco fillings. To cook corn tortillas using this method, simply preheat your griddle or comal over medium-high heat, then cook the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side.
It’s essential to cook the tortillas just until they’re lightly browned and still slightly soft to the touch. Overcooking can make them brittle and prone to cracking, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to assemble your tacos. If you don’t have a griddle or comal, you can also cook corn tortillas in a dry skillet on the stovetop or in the oven. However, grilling or dry cooking on a griddle or comal is the preferred method for achieving that authentic street taco flavor and texture.
How do I store corn tortillas to keep them fresh?
To keep corn tortillas fresh, it’s essential to store them properly. The best way to store corn tortillas is in an airtight container or plastic bag in the refrigerator. You can also store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When storing corn tortillas, make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as this can cause them to become dry and brittle.
If you’re storing corn tortillas in the refrigerator, it’s a good idea to wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. You can also store them in a paper bag or a breathable container to maintain humidity and keep them fresh. When you’re ready to use your stored corn tortillas, simply remove them from the refrigerator or freezer and let them come to room temperature before cooking.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for street tacos?
While flour tortillas can be used for street tacos, they’re not the traditional choice for this type of dish. Corn tortillas are preferred for street tacos because of their unique flavor and texture, which is achieved through the process of nixtamalization. Nixtamalization involves soaking corn in limewater to remove the hulls, then grinding it into a fine masa that’s used to make tortillas.
Flour tortillas, on the other hand, are made from wheat flour and water, and they have a softer, more pliable texture than corn tortillas. While flour tortillas can still be delicious for street tacos, they lack the authentic flavor and texture of corn tortillas. If you want to make traditional street tacos, it’s best to use corn tortillas. However, if you prefer the taste and texture of flour tortillas, you can still use them as a substitute.
How do I warm up corn tortillas before using them for street tacos?
Warming up corn tortillas before using them for street tacos is essential to make them pliable and easy to fold. There are a few ways to warm up corn tortillas, including wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds, grilling them on a dry griddle or comal for a few seconds on each side, or wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for a few minutes.
Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to warm the tortillas just until they’re soft and pliable. Overheating can make them dry and brittle, which can be difficult to work with. Once your tortillas are warmed up, you can use them to assemble your street tacos. Simply place a spoonful of your favorite filling onto the center of the tortilla, then fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
Can I make my own corn tortillas from scratch?
Yes, you can make your own corn tortillas from scratch using masa harina, water, and a pinch of salt. Making corn tortillas from scratch can be a fun and rewarding process, and it allows you to control the quality and flavor of your tortillas. To make corn tortillas from scratch, simply mix together the masa harina and water to form a dough, then knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes pliable.
Once the dough is ready, you can divide it into small balls and flatten each ball into a thin disk using a rolling pin or your hands. Cook the tortillas on a dry griddle or comal for about 30 seconds on each side, until they’re lightly browned and slightly puffed. Making corn tortillas from scratch can take some practice, but with a little patience and persistence, you can create delicious, homemade tortillas that are perfect for street tacos.
How do I prevent corn tortillas from cracking when I fold them?
To prevent corn tortillas from cracking when you fold them, it’s essential to cook them just until they’re lightly browned and still slightly soft to the touch. Overcooking can make them brittle and prone to cracking, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to assemble your tacos. You can also try warming up the tortillas before folding them, as this can make them more pliable and easier to work with.
Another tip for preventing corn tortillas from cracking is to handle them gently when you’re folding them. Try to fold the tortillas in a smooth, gentle motion, rather than bending or creasing them sharply. You can also try using a little bit of moisture, such as a damp paper towel or a sprinkle of water, to help the tortillas fold more smoothly. By following these tips, you can create delicious street tacos with tortillas that are pliable and easy to fold.
Can I use leftover corn tortillas to make other dishes?
Yes, you can use leftover corn tortillas to make a variety of other dishes, including tortilla chips, tostadas, and chilaquiles. To make tortilla chips, simply cut the leftover tortillas into triangles or strips, then fry them in hot oil until they’re crispy. To make tostadas, top the leftover tortillas with beans, cheese, meats, and other toppings, then bake them in the oven until they’re crispy.
To make chilaquiles, cut the leftover tortillas into quarters, then fry them in hot oil until they’re crispy. Serve the chilaquiles with salsa, cheese, and other toppings for a delicious breakfast or brunch dish. You can also use leftover corn tortillas to make other dishes, such as tortilla soup or tortilla casserole. Simply get creative and experiment with different recipes and ingredients to find new uses for your leftover tortillas.