What different types of Tortillas are there? If you are a fan of Mexican food, you will love this article as we explore the different types of tortillas. And just who can say no to taco night or a delicious wrapped burrito filled with chicken and black beans, right?
A key element of these and other delicious recipes is a good tortilla, and did you know there are different types of tortillas? There’s quite a variety; you find different tortillas types in today’s market made of different ingredients to please different palates.
You may enjoy more than one type, so our recommendation is to try as many as you can so you can decide which is your favorite type. Continue reading and learning about different types of tortillas.
Types of Tortillas
Corn Tortilla
Other than flour, corn tortillas are the staple of Mexican cuisine. Corn tortillas have been around for thousands of years in the time of the Aztecs. Corn was a staple in the Aztecs’ diet, though their corn tortillas mostly consisted of cornmeal and water. Over time, they learned to improve the masa harina, or “dough flour,” by soaking them with lime (calcium oxide) water and grinding them into a paste.
Corn tortillas tend to be smaller than their flour counterparts, so you won’t find a burrito or quesadilla made of corn tortillas. However, corn tortillas are known for their sturdiness, so they are often used for chips, enchiladas, tacos, taquitos, and tostadas.
Flour Tortilla
The other popular type of tortillas is flour tortillas. Their history goes back to the Spanish Inquisition when maize (corn) was considered non-kosher by Jews. Unlike corn tortillas, flour tortillas need all-purpose flour and some lard, vegetable shortening, or olive oil for the dough to bind together.
They are typically softer than corn tortillas and can stretch into larger sizes. Flour tortillas are often used in burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, and tacos, especially breakfast tacos.
Half and Half Tortilla
Why not combine both corn and flour tortillas into one? This is the half-and-half tortilla, also known as the mitad y mitad tortilla. With half corn and half flour, this tortilla is more hearty than the traditional corn tortilla.
Blue Corn Tortilla
Blue corn tortillas are becoming more popular in Mexican cuisine. You might know it from its chip form, but it can be eaten as a normal tortilla. Blue corn tortillas are also called Hopi maize, the Rio Grande blue, or Yoeme blue.
The blue color comes from blue corn that is ground and made into the masa.
Nopal Tortilla
Nopales, or cacti, are popular in Mexican cuisine, so it makes sense that a tortilla version of them exists. Noted for its green color, the nopal tortilla is made when your skin and slice the cactus and blends it until it is liquified. Pour it into the cornflour and knead it into the dark green masa. Nopal tortillas are considered a healthier alternative to flour or corn tortillas.
Beetroot Tortilla
Instead of a green tint, beetroot tortillas offer a reddish or pinkish color along with a sweeter flavor. Made with beetroot juice or beetroot powder, these tortillas offer a subtle, mild flavor compared to other tortillas. They are also considered to be quite healthy.
Hoja Santa Tortilla
This tortilla is made from the leafy Mexican pepper leaf called hoja santa. The herb is blended and incorporated into the masa. It is known for having a strong, herby flavor and a pastel green tint to the tortilla.
Jamaica Tortilla
This tortilla comes from Oaxaca, Mexico, an area known for growing Jamaica, or hibiscus, plants. The Jamaica flower provides the lavender color in the tortilla. The Jamaica tortilla is best for light foods like fish, shrimp, or vegetables.
Pan Arabe Tortilla
This tortilla alternative is similar to pita bread due to its inspiration from Middle Eastern food. This Arab-style taco was created in the 1900s by Lebanese immigrants in the city of Pueblo.
What are the Benefits of Different Types of Tortillas
There are many benefits to different types of tortillas. For example, corn tortillas are typically lower in calories and carbs than flour tortillas. They are also gluten-free, which can be important for people with gluten sensitivities. Corn tortillas also have a slightly nutty flavor that many people enjoy.
Flour tortillas, on the other hand, tend to be more versatile. They can be used for various dishes, from breakfast burritos to enchiladas. Flour tortillas are also typically richer and more filling than corn tortillas.
Which type of tortilla is right for you depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs. However, both corn and flour tortillas can be a healthy and delicious part of your diet. So try out both types and see which one you like best!
Features To Look in Different Types of Tortillas
When looking for a tortilla, you should consider a few things. Some tortillas are thicker or thinner, some are larger or smaller, and some have different flavors. Here are a few features to look for in different types of tortillas:
- Thin Tortillas: Thin tortillas are best for tacos or wraps because they’re easy to roll up. Look for tortillas that are soft and flexible, but not so thin that they tear easily.
- Thick Tortillas: They are perfect for dishes like enchiladas or burritos because they hold fillings well without tearing. Look for a soft and pliable tortilla, but not so thick that it’s difficult to roll up.
- Flavored Tortillas: Tortillas come in a variety of flavors, from plain to spinach to whole wheat. Choose a flavor that will complement the fillings in your dish.
- Size: Tortillas come in various sizes, from small six-inch rounds to large twelve-inch rounds. Choose a size that will fit the amount of filling you have.
Now that you know what to look for in a tortilla, you can choose the perfect one for your next meal. Try different kinds and sizes to find the perfect fit for your favorite dishes.
Where to Find Different Types of Tortillas
Whole Wheat Pita Bread
The signature Flax, Oat Bran & Whole Wheat lavash bread are one of the healthiest bread options around.
Ingredients include; water, wheat gluten, oat fiber, corn starch, soy flour, soy protein isolate, soybean oil, enriched wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid.
Features:
- High Protein
- 6g Net Carbs
- Wheat
Tortilla Corn Stone Ground Organic
These corn tortillas serve fajitas with grilled skirt steak or tofu, guacamole, and salsa.
Crisp tortillas in the oven for tostadas, then top with refried black beans, lettuce, and tomatoes.
Or, cut into triangles, spray with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt, and back on a lined baking sheet until lightly browned.
Features:
- Corn
- 0.5 Pounds
- Vegan
Tortillas Flour Homestyle Organic
These organic flour tortillas are created from scratch, made thicker than regular tortillas, and cooked over high heat.
These organic Flour Tortillas have a rustic, pillowy texture and a rich homemade taste. Ingredients include; organic wheat flour, water, organic expeller pressed soybean oil, organic apple cider vinegar, organic cultured wheat starch, organic whole wheat flour, sea salt, baking powder.
Features:
- Flour
- Organic
- 12 Ounce
Ula Tortilla Blue Corn
Fresh blue corn tortillas are great for tacos or tostadas.
Features:
- Gluten-Free
- Vegan
- Wheat-Free
- No Preservatives
Tia Lupita Cactus Corn Tortillas
These tortillas contain ZERO raw ingredients or preservatives and are great for tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, tostadas, and sandwich wraps. Enjoy them as a healthy snack cut into small pieces and pair them with your favorite salsas and dips.
A healthy on-the-go snack for kids and adults!
Ingredients include; water, white corn masa, nopal cactus, tapioca fiber, sea salt.
Features:
- Low carb
- Low calorie
- Gluten-Free, High Fiber, Keto, Non-GMO, Dairy-Free, and No Sugar.
Angelic Bakehouse Garden Tortillas
These are thinly layered wraps, tortillas made from sprouted whole grains packed with protein, high in fiber, and low in sodium.
It is an allergen-friendly product free of nuts, soy, egg, dairy, and high fructose corn syrup. It is also non-GMO, kosher, and vegan. Includes 23g of whole grains.
Nothing beats beets, except this beet wraps. Because they’re made with beets and sprouted whole grains, they’re every bit as nutritious as they are delicious.
Features:
- Non-GMO
- Kosher
- Vegan
Common Questions Regarding Types of Tortillas
What kind of tortillas are used for tacos?
While flour tortillas have the size and the consistency for entrees like burritos and quesadillas, corn tortillas are typically better suited for tacos, street tacos, taquitos, and pretty much any other dish.
Which tortillas are the healthiest?
Corn tortillas outshine their flour alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. Corn tortillas deliver fiber, whole grains, and other nutrients while being lower in fat and calories than flour tortillas. 100% corn tortillas are also safe for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
What kind of tortillas are used in Mexico?
In this Latin American country, the word tortilla refers to the ubiquitous corn tortilla made of maize. In Mexico, burritos are made with wheat tortillas. Flour tortillas were also very popular in Tex-Mex food and plates like fajitas.
What are the best tortillas?
If you want that soft taco deliciousness, opt for a flour tortilla. Flour tortillas remain plush and pillow-like even after getting crisp in the pan. The tortilla also absorbs flavor from the butter we used to grill, which bodes well for enchilada fans who decide to use this brand. These should work for nearly any dish.
What are the best tortillas for diet?
If you are looking for the best diet version, you may want to go for the light flour tortillas. Reduced-calorie foods have a reputation for reduced taste, and light flour tortillas certainly don’t have the depth of flavor that other options do. But as far as diet versions go, these light tortillas are fairly indistinguishable from their normal counterparts.
What can you do with tortillas?
Cheap and filling, pliable tortillas can be molded into soft tacos, burritos, and a myriad of other filling, quick foods. But not all store-bought tortillas are created equal. Some provide more of a plush bite, whereas some lend more of a crisp, flakey texture once toasted in a pan. And with some companies offering low-carb or low-calorie options, there’s much to choose from.
What kind of tortillas are used for tacos?
Tortillas used for tacos are typically soft corn tortillas.
Are there different types of corn tortillas?
Yes, there are a few different types of corn tortillas. There’s the traditional corn tortilla, which is made from cornmeal, water and salt. There’s also the flour tortilla, which is made from wheat flour, and the hybrid tortilla, which is made from a combination of corn and wheat flours. Finally, there are the gluten-free tortillas, which are made from cornmeal or rice flour.
What do you call a thick tortilla?
A burrito is a type of tortilla thicker than a normal one. It is usually made from wheat flour and water.
What do you call a thin tortilla?
A flour tortilla is a type of tortilla that is thinner than a normal tortilla. It is usually made from wheat flour, water, and fat.
What do you call a fried tortilla?
A tostada is a type of tortilla that is fried.
How many types of tortillas are there?
There are many types of tortillas, but the most popular ones are corn and flour.
What kind of tortilla is used for quesadillas?
A quesadilla is usually made with a corn tortilla, but can also be made with a flour tortilla. It is a Tex-Mex dish that consists of a tortilla that is filled with cheese and other ingredients, then grilled or fried.
What about burritos?
A burrito is traditionally made with a flour tortilla, but can also be made with a corn tortilla. It is a Mexican dish that consists of a tortilla that is filled with meat, rice, beans, and other ingredients, then rolled up and served.
And tacos?
A taco is traditionally made with a corn tortilla, but can also be made with a flour tortilla. It is a Mexican dish that consists of a tortilla that is filled with meat, vegetables, and other ingredients, then served.
What is the difference between a flour tortilla and a corn tortilla?
A flour tortilla is made with wheat flour, while a corn tortilla is made with masa harina, which is a type of cornmeal. Flour tortillas are softer and have a more bread-like texture, while corn tortillas are more firm and have a more tortilla-like texture.
What is the difference between a soft taco and a hard taco?
A soft taco is made with a soft tortilla, while a hard taco is made with a hard shell. Hard tacos are usually fried, while soft tacos are not. Hard tacos are typically served with lettuce, cheese, and salsa, while soft tacos are typically served with meat, beans, and salsa.
What is the difference between a burrito and a chimichanga?
A burrito is a Mexican dish that consists of a tortilla that is filled with meat, rice, beans, and other ingredients, then rolled up and served. A chimichanga is a Tex-Mex dish that consists of a burrito that is deep-fried and served with a dipping sauce.
What are the small tortillas called?
Tortillas come in all different shapes and sizes, but the most common are the large, burrito-sized tortillas. The small tortillas are usually called tacos.
What are flour tortillas called?
Flour tortillas are a type of tortilla made from wheat flour. They are soft, pliable, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients.
What is the healthiest tortilla?
The healthiest tortilla is the flour tortilla because it is made with whole wheat flour and has a lower calorie count than corn tortillas. whole wheat flour tortillas also have more fiber and protein than corn tortillas.
What is the best tortilla for wraps?
The best tortilla for wraps is the whole wheat flour tortilla because it is more pliable and will not tear as easily as the corn tortilla. The whole wheat flour tortilla will also hold up better to the fillings and will not get soggy.
What is the best tortilla for tacos?
The best tortilla for tacos is the corn tortilla because it has a stronger flavor that can stand up to the bold flavors of the taco filling. The corn tortilla will also hold its shape better than the flour tortilla.
What tortillas do Chipotle use?
Chipotle uses corn tortillas, which are made from masa harina, water and salt.
What are the best tortillas for street tacos?
There are many types of tortillas that can be used for street tacos, but the most popular type is the corn tortilla. Corn tortillas are more dense and chewy than flour tortillas and they have a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with spicy tacos.
If you’re looking for a more traditional street taco experience, then you should use a flour tortilla. Flour tortillas are thinner and have a neutral flavor that won’t compete with the flavors of your fillings.
For something different, you can also use a whole wheat or spinach tortilla. These tortillas are made with healthier ingredients and have a slightly different flavor than the traditional tortillas. If you’re looking for a healthier option, then these are the best tortillas for street tacos.
No matter which type of tortilla you choose, make sure to heat it up before filling it with your favorite taco toppings. A hot tortilla will make your street tacos even more delicious!
What are the best tortillas for breakfast tacos?
The best tortillas for breakfast tacos are flour tortillas. Flour tortillas are thinner and have a neutral flavor that won’t compete with the flavors of your fillings. Plus, they’re easy to fold up and eat on the go.
