The type of flour used in baked goods plays a significant role in determining the structure and flavor of the food. Nowadays, various types of flour obtained from different sources are used to make a wide variety of dishes for healthier eating. Mexican cuisine frequently features baked goods. From its tortillas to wraps and even its desserts, Mexican dishes that require flour have retained their global popularity for years. Tortillas, as one of the key ingredients in these dishes, can be made with different types of flour. While cornmeal gets closer to the original flavor, whole wheat tortilla is also a popular choice.
In many dishes, different types of flour are used, sometimes for health reasons and other times to achieve the desired consistency of the food. Tortillas are often made with cornmeal. However, during Spain’s colonization of Mexico, the country was introduced to wheat flour, leading to minor changes in the kitchen. Whole wheat tortilla gained prominence through this and the popularization of the product in America. Most tortillas found in America today are made with wheat flour. Whether for tacos, wraps, or burritos, the bread or flatbread component often contains whole wheat flour.
What Is a Tortilla?
What is a tortilla? The best answer might be that it is one of the greatest gifts Mexico has given to the world. Its delicious and nutritious dough, its use in many different dishes, its practical preparation, and its suitability for every kitchen make tortillas the most valuable product of Mexican cuisine. Tortillas (whole wheat tortillas) are a type of dough that is now recognized and used globally, particularly in Mexico. In Turkey, similar products like flatbreads and phyllo dough are available. Globally, the most well-known tortilla dishes are tacos, wraps, and burritos. The product can be made with cornmeal or whole wheat flour, depending entirely on personal taste and the dish being prepared.
Uses of Tortillas
Tortillas can be used to create a variety of dishes. Firmer tortillas can be used to make tacos and similar items. When made softer and more flexible, tortillas can be used for wraps, pastries, or lasagna-style dishes. When made with wheat flour, their neutral taste allows them to work well with sweet dishes as well. Tortillas offer a wide range of uses, making them valuable for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.
Can You Buy Whole Wheat Tortillas?
Whole wheat tortillas, like other tortillas, are sold pre-packaged in stores. They can be heated for about one minute in a microwave, oven, or pan to make them ready for use. It is essential to ensure they are fresh or check the details on the packaging before purchasing.
What’s Special About Whole Wheat?
Whole wheat tortillas are often chosen for health reasons. However, the use of tortillas is quite versatile, so the type of flour depends on the dish in which the tortilla will be used. So, what’s the difference, and how does whole wheat affect tortillas?
Tortillas are a staple in dishes like tacos, fajitas, burritos, and wraps, all of which have different presentation styles. Therefore, the structure, shape, and size of tortillas vary depending on the presentation. Tortillas can be made from either cornmeal or wheat flour. The introduction of wheat flour to tortillas began after Spain’s colonization of Mexico in the late 1500s. With the arrival of Spain, European culinary ingredients entered Mexican cuisine, including wheat flour. These changes also influenced tortilla dough. In the early 1900s, Mexican workers introduced tacos to America, leading to the American preference for wheat-based tacos and tortillas. This eventually led to the widespread use of whole wheat tortillas. But what is the difference, or how does whole wheat affect tortillas?
Whole wheat flour differs from refined flour, which consists primarily of starch and gluten. Refined flour is commonly used for baking and contributes to the rising and fluffiness of baked goods like cakes and pastries. Whole wheat flour, on the other hand, contains all parts of the wheat, including proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytosterols. This makes it a healthier and more nutritious option. How does this affect the dough, particularly tortillas?
Whole wheat flour provides a neutral flavor, allowing the dough to work equally well with sweet and savory fillings, enhancing the taste of any additional ingredients like fillings or sauces. It also harmonizes well with other flavors. The lower gluten content results in dough that does not rise significantly, creating lighter, thinner flatbreads. The fibrous part of the wheat adds strength and firmness, which is ideal for both tacos and wraps. Additionally, whole wheat tortillas are slightly darker, often a light brown color, due to the inclusion of the entire wheat kernel. Whole wheat flour offers a healthier, more filling, and lighter alternative. By selecting the appropriate type of flour, you can achieve the desired results.
Dishes with Whole Wheat Tortillas
Whole wheat tortillas can be used to prepare numerous dishes. The most common options are tacos, wraps, and burritos. However, as your palate develops and you become more open to new flavors, your kitchen will naturally expand to include a variety of tortilla-based dishes.
With tortillas, you can make wraps, quesadillas, enchiladas, tostadas, and fajitas. These dishes, enriched with spices and sauces, allow for enjoyable moments in the kitchen and the opportunity to experience incredible flavors.
Because of the neutral taste provided by whole wheat flour, it pairs well with sweet dishes too. For instance, you can cut tortillas into strips, coat them with butter, cinnamon, and sugar, and bake them to create a sweet snack served with fruit or chocolate sauce. Alternatively, cut them into squares, bake them, and combine them with yogurt, fruit, and cream for a healthy dessert or lunch. You can also prepare wraps with peanut butter, chocolate spread, or fruit pieces and drizzle them with syrup for a delightful companion to coffee.
Cooking with whole wheat tortillas is practical and enjoyable. Whether for a hearty, flavorful dinner, sweet and healthy snacks with coffee, or special gatherings, whole wheat tortillas can elevate your culinary experience. Use them in a microwave, oven, or pan to unleash your creativity and develop your kitchen according to your preferences and imagination.