Growing up in a Mexican household, tortillas were a staple in my daily diet. Whether it was for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, tortillas were always present on the table. And while traditionally, tortillas were heated on a comal or a stovetop, I often found myself wondering if there was a quicker way to warm them up. That’s when I discovered the power of the microwave.
Is it possible to heat tortillas in the microwave?
The Microwave: A Game-Changer
One day, I was running late for work and didn’t have enough time to heat the tortillas on the stove. In a burst of desperation, I decided to give the microwave a try. To my surprise, the tortillas came out warm, soft, and ready to be devoured within seconds. It was a game-changer!
How to heat tortillas in the microwave
Heating tortillas in the microwave is a quick and easy process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Start by stacking your tortillas on a microwave-safe plate. I usually heat four to six tortillas at a time, but you can adjust the amount based on your needs.
2. Sprinkle a few drops of water on the tortillas. Adding a little moisture helps prevent them from drying out while they heat.
3. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or use a damp paper towel to cover the tortillas. This helps trap the steam, keeping the tortillas moist and pliable.
4. Place the plate in the microwave and set the cooking time. The amount of time needed depends on the power of your microwave and the number of tortillas you’re heating. Start with 30 seconds and adjust accordingly.
5. Carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel. Be cautious as the plate and tortillas will be hot.
6. Your tortillas are now ready to be served!
Pros and Cons of microwaving tortillas
While the microwave is a convenient way to heat tortillas, it’s important to note that there are a few pros and cons to consider.
Pros:
– Quick and efficient: Microwaving tortillas takes just a fraction of the time compared to heating them on the stovetop or comal.
– Saves energy: Microwaves use less energy compared to traditional cooking methods, making them an environmentally-friendly option.
– Convenient: If you’re short on time or don’t have access to a stove, the microwave can be a lifesaver.
Cons:
– Texture: While microwaved tortillas are soft and warm, they may lack the slightly charred and toasty taste that comes from cooking them on a comal or stovetop.
– Moisture content: Microwaving tortillas can sometimes make them slightly damp, which may affect the texture and taste.
Alternative ways to heat tortillas
Stovetop or comal
If you’re looking for a more traditional approach to heating tortillas, using a stovetop or comal is the way to go. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Heat a comal or a skillet over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for a few minutes.
2. Place a tortilla on the comal or skillet, and let it cook for about 30 seconds to a minute on each side. You’ll start seeing small brown spots and witness the tortilla puffing up.
3. Once the tortilla is cooked, remove it from the comal or skillet, and stack it in a tortilla warmer or a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm.
Oven
If you have some extra time on your hands, using the oven to heat tortillas can result in a delicious and evenly cooked tortilla. Here’s how:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil, creating a tight bundle.
3. Place the bundle of tortillas in the preheated oven and let them warm for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Carefully remove the tortillas from the oven, and they’re ready to be enjoyed.
In conclusion
While cooking tortillas on a comal or stovetop may yield a more authentic taste and texture, the microwave is an excellent alternative when you need to quickly warm up your tortillas. Experiment with different methods and find the one that works best for you. Now, I can confidently say that I am a tortilla-heating expert, thanks to the quick and efficient wonders of the microwave.