Homemade Tortillas

Homemade Tortillas – Low Calorie

By Juan Oct 12, 2023

Welcome everyone! Today, we will be talking about how to make homemade tortillas that are low in calories. As we all know, tortillas are a staple in many Mexican dishes, and they’re often served with high-calorie fillings like cheese and fatty meats. But worry not, by making your own tortillas at home, you can control the ingredients and make them healthier. So, let’s get started!

The History and Significance of Homemade Tortillas

As a proud Mexican, I have great respect for the tradition of homemade tortillas. In Mexico, tortillas are a staple food, and every region has its own unique variation. The history of tortillas dates back thousands of years to the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations. The traditional way of making tortillas involved grinding corn kernels into a paste, which was then shaped into thin rounds and cooked on a hot griddle. Today, homemade tortillas are still an essential part of Mexican cuisine and are enjoyed around the world.

The Health Benefits of Homemade Tortillas

Contrary to popular belief, tortillas are not inherently unhealthy. The problem lies in the store-bought varieties, which are often loaded with preservatives, artificial flavors, and other additives. Homemade tortillas, on the other hand, are made with simple, natural ingredients and can be a healthy addition to any diet. In fact, homemade tortillas can be a great source of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. By making your own tortillas at home, you can control the ingredients and ensure that you are getting a nutritious, low-calorie option.

One key takeaway from this text is that making homemade tortillas can be a healthy and nutritious alternative to store-bought tortillas. Homemade tortillas are made with simple, natural ingredients and can be a great source of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. By controlling the ingredients, you can ensure that your tortillas are a low-calorie option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, there are many variations to traditional homemade tortillas that you can try, including flour tortillas and flavored tortillas.

The Nutritional Value of Homemade Tortillas

A single 6-inch tortilla made from corn has the following nutritional value:

• Calories: 60-65
• Fat: 1-2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 12-14 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams

Compared to store-bought tortillas, which can have up to 150 calories per tortilla, homemade tortillas are a much healthier option.

How to Make Homemade Tortillas

Making homemade tortillas is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients:

• 2 cups of masa harina (corn flour)
• 1 1/4 cups of warm water
• Pinch of salt

To make the tortillas:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt.
2. Slowly add the warm water, mixing with your hands until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Flatten each ball with a tortilla press or rolling pin until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Cook each tortilla on a hot griddle or skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, until lightly browned.

Key Takeaway: Homemade tortillas made with simple, natural ingredients can be a healthy addition to any diet and are a great source of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. By making your own tortillas at home, you can control the ingredients and ensure that you are getting a nutritious, low-calorie option. There are many variations to try, including flour tortillas, flavored tortillas, and low-calorie tortillas made with cauliflower or zucchini.

Tips for Making Perfect Homemade Tortillas

• Use warm water to make the dough. Cold water will not activate the corn flour properly.
• Knead the dough well to ensure that it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Use a tortilla press to flatten the dough evenly. If you don’t have a press, use a rolling pin and a plastic bag to prevent the dough from sticking.
• Cook the tortillas on a hot griddle or skillet for best results. If the heat is too low, the tortillas will be dry and tough.

Variations of Homemade Tortillas

While the traditional homemade tortilla is made with corn flour, there are many variations to try. For example, you can use wheat flour to make flour tortillas or add flavors such as herbs, spices, or cheese. To make low-calorie tortillas, you can substitute the masa harina with cauliflower or zucchini.

Flour Tortillas

To make flour tortillas, substitute the masa harina with all-purpose flour. The process is the same as making corn tortillas, but the dough will be softer and more pliable. Flour tortillas are a popular variation and are often used in burritos and quesadillas.

Flavored Tortillas

To add flavor to your tortillas, you can mix in herbs, spices, or cheese. For example, you can add chopped cilantro, garlic, or chili powder to the dough for added flavor. You can also add grated cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to make cheesy tortillas.

Low-Calorie Tortillas

For a low-calorie option, you can substitute the masa harina with cauliflower or zucchini. Simply grate the cauliflower or zucchini and mix it with all-purpose flour and a little bit of water until a dough forms. This will result in a lower-calorie tortilla that is high in fiber and nutrients.

FAQs for Homemade Tortillas Low Calorie

What are some tips for making low calorie homemade tortillas?

When it comes to making low calorie homemade tortillas, there are several tips to keep in mind. Firstly, opt for whole grain flour instead of white flour to increase the fiber content in the tortillas. You can also add mashed sweet potato or pumpkin for a natural source of sweetness and to reduce the amount of flour needed. Additionally, use a small amount of healthy oil, such as olive or avocado oil, instead of butter or lard. Finally, try using non-fat Greek yogurt or skim milk to make the dough instead of traditional heavy cream to reduce the calorie count even further.

How many calories are in a homemade tortilla compared to a store-bought tortilla?

The calorie count of a homemade tortilla will depend on the ingredients used, but on average, a homemade tortilla made with whole grain flour and healthy oils will have fewer calories than a store-bought tortilla. A 6-inch homemade tortilla may have around 70-80 calories, while a store-bought tortilla of the same size may have between 90-120 calories. It’s important to check the nutrition information on the packaging to make an informed choice.

Are low calorie homemade tortillas just as tasty as regular tortillas?

As long as you follow the right recipe and use the right ingredients, low calorie homemade tortillas can be just as tasty as regular tortillas. In fact, many people find that whole grain flour, sweet potato, and Greek yogurt give tortillas a unique twist that sets them apart from regular tortillas. Plus, by making your own tortillas, you have complete control over the seasoning and spice content, so you can add any flavors you like.

How long do homemade tortillas last?

Homemade tortillas can last for up to a week when stored properly. After cooking, tortillas should be allowed to cool completely before being stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat them in the microwave, on a griddle, or in the oven until they’re heated through.

Are low calorie homemade tortillas suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

Low calorie homemade tortillas can be a great option for people with a variety of dietary restrictions. By using whole grain flour and healthy oils, these tortillas can be a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight, control their blood sugar, or reduce their cholesterol. Additionally, by using non-fat Greek yogurt or skim milk, these tortillas can be suitable for people who are lactose intolerant. However, it’s always important to check the recipe and ingredients carefully to ensure that the tortillas are appropriate for your specific dietary needs.