FLOUR TORTILLA Meaning and
Definition
-
A flour tortilla is a type of soft, thin, and round flatbread made from wheat flour. It is a staple of Mexican cuisine and is widely used as a base for various dishes such as burritos, tacos, and quesadillas.
The process of making flour tortillas involves combining wheat flour, water, fat (such as lard or vegetable shortening), and salt to form a smooth dough. The dough is then divided into small portions, rolled out into thin circles, and cooked on a hot griddle or comal until it puffs up and develops light brown spots or "blistered" areas. The result is a soft and pliable bread that can be easily folded or rolled to contain a filling or to be eaten on its own.
Flour tortillas have a mild and slightly earthy flavor, with a tender and chewy texture. They are known for their versatility, as they can be filled with a wide array of ingredients ranging from grilled meats and vegetables to beans, cheese, and salsa. They are often served warm and can be enjoyed as a main course, snack, or side dish.
The use of flour tortillas has expanded beyond Mexican cuisine and has become popular in various parts of the world due to their flexibility and ability to pair well with a multitude of flavors.
Etymology of FLOUR TORTILLA
The word "flour tortilla" has its etymology rooted in Spanish. The term "tortilla" comes from the Spanish word "torta", which originally referred to a kind of round cake. "Torta" was derived from the Latin word "torta", meaning "round loaf" or "twisted bread". Eventually, the meaning of "tortilla" shifted to refer specifically to a thin, round flatbread made from wheat or corn flour.
In the case of "flour tortilla", the addition of the word "flour" specifies that it is made using wheat flour rather than corn flour, distinguishing it from corn tortillas.
