Tortillas are a versatile staple in commercial kitchens, used in a wide variety of dishes from burritos and tacos to enchiladas and quesadillas. Understanding the different sizes of tortillas available on the commercial market is essential for ensuring your dishes turn out just right. From small street taco tortillas to large burrito wraps, the size of the tortilla you choose can greatly impact the final presentation and flavor of your dish. In this guide, we will explore the various tortilla sizes available, how the different sizes are used in Mexican cuisine, the different types of tortillas you can purchase or make, and how to store them properly to maintain their freshness and quality.
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When selecting tortillas for your commercial kitchen, it's important to consider the various sizes available to suit your menu needs. Common tortilla sizes range from 4 inches to 14 inches in diameter, with smaller sizes ideal for street tacos and appetizers, while larger sizes are perfect for burritos and wraps. We break down the right-sized tortilla for popular Hispanic dishes below:
- Enchilada Tortilla Size: Use 6-inch corn tortillas for enchiladas.
- Fajita Tortilla Size: Use 6-inch tortillas for fajitas; offer corn or flour based on customer preference.
- Quesadilla Tortilla Size: Use 8- to 10-inch flour tortillas for quesadillas.
- Soft Taco Tortilla Size: Use 6- to 8-inch flour tortillas for soft tacos. 8-inch tortillas are the most popular.
- Street Taco Tortilla Size: Use 4- to 5-inch tortillas for street tacos. Corn is traditional.
- Burrito Tortilla Size: Use 10- to 14-inch flour tortillas for burritos. 10-inch is common for homestyle burritos, 12-inch for “loaded” burritos, and 14-inch for hearty burrito entrees in sit-down Mexican restaurants.
- Wrap Tortilla Size: Use 10- to 12-inch flour tortillas for foldable sandwich wraps. 10-inch tortillas are the standard size for wraps.
- Gordita Tortilla Size: Use 4- to 6 1/2-inch corn masa tortillas for gorditas.
Types of Tortillas
The two main types of tortillas are corn tortillas and flour tortillas. Within those categories are several unique types of corn tortillas as well as some flavorful outliers. Check out the different types of tortillas, their ingredients, and their applications below.
- Flour Tortillas: Flour tortillas are a common type of tortilla made from wheat flour, water, fat, and salt. They are softer and more pliable than corn tortillas, making them ideal for wrapping burritos and other dishes.
- Blue Corn Tortillas: Blue corn tortillas are a variation of corn tortillas made from blue corn, which gives them a distinctive color and slightly sweeter taste compared to traditional corn tortillas. They're most popular in New Mexico and the Southwestern United States, Central and Southern Mexico, where they are staples in Mexico City and Oaxaca.
- Yellow Corn Tortillas: Yellow corn tortillas are made from yellow corn masa and are a popular choice in Tex-Mex cuisine. They have a slightly sweeter flavor than white corn tortillas.
- White Corn Tortillas: White corn tortillas are made from white corn masa and have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of fillings and toppings. They're staples in Central and Southern Mexico as well as amongst street food vendors across Mexico.
- Guirila: Guirila is a type of thick corn tortilla popular in Nicaragua. They're made from a dough of corn masa that is pressed into a thick disk and cooked on a griddle.
- Nopal Tortillas: Nopal tortillas are a unique type of tortilla made with nopal, or prickly pear cactus, which adds a subtle earthy flavor and extra nutrients to the tortilla. They're popular throughout Mexico but are particularly prominent in Mexico City.
- Spanish Tortillas: Spanish tortillas, also known as tortilla de patatas, are a type of omelet made with eggs, potatoes, and sometimes onions. They are not the same as Mexican tortillas, but they are a delicious and popular dish that is often served on Spanish tapas menus.
Corn vs Flour Tortillas
Corn tortillas are made from masa harina, a type of corn flour. They have a distinct flavor and texture that is slightly chewy and earthy. Corn tortillas are a traditional choice for Mexican and Central American cuisine, particularly for dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tostadas. They are also gluten-free, making them a great option for customers with dietary restrictions.
Flour tortillas are made from wheat flour, water, and fat, such as lard or vegetable shortening. They have a softer texture and a neutral flavor, making them versatile for a wide range of dishes. Flour tortillas are a popular choice for Tex-Mex cuisine, as they are ideal for wrapping around ingredients like grilled meats, beans, and Mexican cheeses in dishes such as burritos and fajitas. Their pliability makes it easy to fold and roll, equipping flour tortillas to hold ingredients without tearing.
How Long Do Tortillas Last?
Store-bought tortillas are perishable items, but they often contain preservatives that extend their shelf life. When unopened, store-bought tortillas can last for several weeks past the best-by date if kept in your restaurant’s storeroom, and even longer when stored in the refrigerator. Once opened, consume store-bought tortillas stored in the pantry within a week, or up to 3 weeks when stored in the refrigerator. Homemade tortillas do not contain preservatives, resulting in a shorter shelf life. They typically last 2 to 3 days in the pantry, and up to a week in the refrigerator.
To determine the freshness of tortillas, always check the expiration date printed on the original packaging. Signs of mold growth indicate that the tortillas have gone bad. Color changes, such as a green tinge or dark spots, are also signs of spoilage. An unpleasant smell is a clear indicator that the tortillas are no longer safe to consume. To prevent mold growth, consider storing them in an airtight container, wrapping them in plastic wrap, and keeping them in a cool, dry place. Alternatively, you can freeze tortillas by placing a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between each tortilla and then storing them in an airtight container or freezer bags.
How Long Do Tortillas Last in the Fridge?
Whether you're using store-bought or homemade tortillas, knowing how long they last in the fridge can help you plan your meals effectively. Once opened, store-bought tortillas can last anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. When stored in the fridge, homemade tortillas usually last about 3 to 7 days. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade, keep them fresh by storing them in an airtight bag or container. This will help maintain their softness and extend their shelf life in your cold food storage area.
How Long Do Corn Tortillas Last?
Store-bought corn tortillas should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Typically, store-bought corn tortillas can last anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator, depending on how much calcium hydroxide, or slaked lime, was used in making them. This ingredient can affect the shelf life of the tortillas. On the other hand, homemade corn tortillas have a shorter shelf life. They typically last 3 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Wrap them in a kitchen towel and store them in airtight containers or plastic bags to prevent them from drying out.
For longer-term storage, corn tortillas also freeze really well. To freeze corn tortillas, take the tortillas out of the packaging and slip a piece of parchment paper between each tortilla before transferring the whole stack to a freezer bag. Be sure to press as much of the air as you can before sealing the bag. Properly frozen corn tortillas can last for several months in the freezer without compromising their taste or texture. If making homemade tortillas, consider freezing the uncooked dough balls for the freshest results.
How Long Do Flour Tortillas Last?
Store-bought flour tortillas last for different durations depending on the storage method. In the refrigerator, flour tortillas typically remain fresh for up to 3 weeks. This makes refrigeration an ideal option for short-term storage, especially in busy foodservice environments. For longer-term storage, freezing flour tortillas is a viable solution. When stored in the freezer, store-bought flour tortillas can maintain their quality for up to 6 months.
If refrigeration or freezing is not an option, store-bought flour tortillas can be kept at room temperature for approximately 5 to 7 days. It's important to note that storing tortillas at room temperature for an extended period may affect their texture and taste, so it's best to use them within the recommended timeframe.
Whether you're optimizing supplies for your Mexican restaurant, looking to incorporate South American flavors into your menu, or planning a festive Cinco de Mayo celebration, understanding the different sizes of tortillas is essential for creating authentic dishes that your customers will love.
