A single Flour Tortilla (Taco Size) contains approximately 80 calories. If you're on a diet or watching your calorie intake, it's essential to know the exact number of calories in what you're eating.
Apart from calories, it's also crucial to take note of its nutritional value. Flour tortillas are typically made from wheat flour, water, and oil. While they are a good source of carbohydrates, they are not known for being rich in essential nutrients. Nonetheless, you could always choose whole wheat tortillas for added nutritional benefits.
In this article, we'll go through everything you need to know about tortillas, from the types available to gluten-free options, so you can make informed decisions in your food choices.
Calories in a Flour Tortilla
As mentioned earlier, a Flour Tortilla (Taco Size) has about 80 calories. If you're using it to make a taco, bear in mind that you'll likely be consuming more than one, so the calories could add up quickly. To make sure you're not going over, consider measuring ingredients or going for alternative low-calorie or low-carb options. You could use lettuce for your taco shell or collard greens instead, which are low in carbs and calories.
While Flour Tortillas are an excellent source of carbohydrates, they are not typically packed with nutrients. A standard white flour tortilla could contain about 15% of your daily requirement for carbohydrates, but none to very little of other essential vitamins and minerals. For a healthier option, try using whole wheat tortillas. Whole wheat tortillas contain more fiber, which promotes better digestion and helps to keep you full for more extended periods. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, phosphorus, and magnesium.
Uses of Flour Tortillas
Flour Tortillas are a versatile food item. They are frequently used to make wraps, quesadillas, burritos, and tacos. You could also use them to make sandwiches or even as a base for a homemade pizza. In addition to being delicious, they are a convenient option for when you need a quick meal or snack. If you're not in the mood for a cooking frenzy, you could also buy pre-made tortillas from the store and fill them up with your favorite ingredients.
Different Types of Tortillas
Tortillas are prevalent in several cultures worldwide, and each variety has its unique characteristics. The most common types of tortillas include flour tortillas, corn tortillas, and whole wheat tortillas. Flour tortillas are made from wheat flour and have a soft texture. They are the most versatile and commonly used tortillas in the US. Corn tortillas, on the other hand, are made from cornmeal and often have a more robust, gritty texture. They are commonly used in traditional Mexican dishes like tacos and enchiladas. Whole wheat tortillas are another alternative that many people prefer due to their higher nutritional value.
Homemade Flour Tortillas
While you could always buy pre-made tortillas from the store, making homemade tortillas gives a unique flavor and a sense of satisfaction. To make homemade flour tortillas, you'll need wheat flour, salt, baking powder, and vegetable oil. First, mix your dry ingredients and then add in your wet ingredients. Knead the dough until it's smooth, and then let it rest for at least 30 minutes. After that, divide the dough into balls and then roll them out into circles. Cook the tortillas for about a minute on each side on a hot skillet or griddle, and you're ready to go!
Popular Mexican Dishes with Tortillas
Tortillas are a staple in traditional Mexican cuisine. Here are some popular dishes that often incorporate tortillas:
- Taco- a tortilla usually served with filling, salsa, and toppings.
- Quesadilla- a tortilla with melted cheese and other ingredients in the middle.
- Burrito- a flour tortilla rolled around a filling of beef, chicken, or veggies, beans, rice, and salsa.
- Nacho- corn tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, veggies, and meat or beans.
How to Warm up a Tortilla
Sometimes, tortillas could become hard and brittle if they are not warmed up properly. Here are three methods to warm up your tortillas:
- Microwave- wrap your tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
- Oven- wrap tortillas in aluminum foil and heat at 350°F for ten minutes.
- Skillet- heat up a dry skillet and lay your tortilla on top, cooking for a few seconds on each side until it's warmed up and soft.
Flour Tortillas vs Corn Tortillas
Both flour and corn tortillas have different taste profiles and textures, making them ideal for different types of cuisine. Flour tortillas have a milder flavor and are softer and more pliable than corn tortillas, making them ideal for dishes that require folding and wrapping, such as burritos and quesadillas. Corn tortillas, on the other hand, have a distinct, earthy flavor and are firmer, making them perfect for dishes like tacos and enchiladas.
Gluten-free Options
Unfortunately, flour tortillas contain gluten, making them unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, there are gluten-free options available, such as corn tortillas, lettuce wraps, or even cauliflower crusts, which offer a healthier, lower-carb alternative.
Tortilla Storage
Tortillas are highly perishable and could quickly go bad if they're not appropriately stored. To keep them fresh for longer, follow these simple tips:
- Store tortillas in an airtight container or bag, preferably in the refrigerator.
- Alternatively, you could freeze them for more extended storage. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- When using frozen tortillas, thaw them in the refrigerator first to prevent them from becoming soggy or mushy.
5 FAQ About Flour Tortilla (Taco Size)
1. What is a flour tortilla?
A flour tortilla is a type of soft, thin flatbread made from wheat flour. It is commonly used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine and is used to wrap and hold fillings for dishes such as tacos, burritos, and fajitas.
2. How many calories are in a flour tortilla (taco size)?
A flour tortilla (taco size) typically has around 80 calories per serving. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the brand and the size of the tortilla.
3. Is a flour tortilla healthy?
A flour tortilla can be a healthy option if it is made with whole wheat flour and contains fiber and protein. However, many store-bought tortillas are made with white flour and contain added sugars and preservatives, making them less healthy.
4. How do you store flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas should be stored in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature. They can also be frozen for longer storage, but should be thawed before use.
5. What are some alternative uses for flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas can be used for more than just tacos and burritos. They can be cut into strips and baked for homemade tortilla chips, or used as a base for a breakfast pizza with eggs and toppings. They can also be used to make a wrap with deli meats and veggies for a quick and easy lunch option.