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How to Heat Corn Tortillas in a Microwave:
Corn tortillas are a staple for making tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and more. But heating corn tortillas can be tricky – they can dry, break apart, or get tricky if you don’t warm them properly. This article will explain the best way to heat corn tortillas in the microwave so they come out warm, soft, and pliable, ready to fill with your favorite taco fillings.
Heating corn tortillas in the microwave is quick and convenient, especially when you must warm up a whole stack for taco night. Properly warming tortillas in the microwave takes some technique, but it’s easy to master. This article covers microwave times, the best heating methods, and tricks from experts like Rick Bayless to help you warm corn tortillas ideally every time. Read on to learn the foolproof way to heat tortillas in the microwave!
Why Warm Up Tortillas Before Serving?
Warming corn tortillas before serving is essential for getting the right taste and texture. Cold, stiff tortillas straight from the package need the soft flexibility to roll up without cracking or properly wrapping tacos and other fillings.
Heating tortillas makes them steamy, moist, and flexible so they can be filled and shaped without breaking apart. Warm tortillas also have more flavor, making the taco fillings seem warmer and fresher.
No one wants a cold, brittle tortilla that shatters when you try to take a bite! Taking the extra minute to heat tortillas in the microwave helps them become soft and pliable, ensuring delicious tacos you can pick up without making a mess.
How Long to Microwave Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas only take 30 seconds to 1 minute to heat up in the microwave. Exact microwave time can vary based on how many tortillas you are warming up and your microwave wattage.
For a single tortilla, microwave on high for 15-30 seconds. For a small stack of 3-4 tortillas, microwave at full power for 30-45 seconds. For a giant pile of 8 or more tortillas, microwave on high for 45 seconds to 1 minute.
The goal is to heat them until they are steamy and warm, but not so long that they get crispy or develop brown spots. Tortillas should come out pliable enough to bend without cracking.
Flip the tortillas halfway through and check frequently to avoid overcooking. With trial and error, you’ll find the perfect microwave time for the number of tortillas you regularly need to prepare.
Microwave Corn Tortillas Stacked Between Damp Paper Towels
The best way to microwave corn tortillas is to stack them between two slightly damp paper towels or napkins. The dampness helps create steam to make the tortillas soft and pliable.
To try this method:
- Place a stack of 3-8 corn tortillas between two paper towels or napkins dampened with water.
- Microwave the wrapped stack on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Carefully remove the hot tortillas using tongs.
- Keep wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay warm until serving.
The paper absorbs excess moisture so the tortillas don’t get soggy. This steaming technique makes tortillas flexible enough to roll or fold without cracking.
Microwave Corn Tortillas One at a Time
Another option is microwaving corn tortillas one at a time. This can help ensure even heating.
To microwave tortillas separately:
- Place a single tortilla on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high for 15-30 seconds.
- Carefully flip and microwave for another 10-15 seconds.
- Repeat to warm the remaining tortillas, stacking them between paper towels to keep them warm.
Microwaving tortillas one by one gives more control over cooking time. It also helps if you only need to heat a few tortillas for a single serving.
Reheating Leftover or Pre-Cooked Tortillas
To reheat tortillas that were already warmed or previously cooked:
- Stack in a pile of 6-8 tortillas wrapped in paper towels.
- Microwave on high for 15-30 seconds until steaming hot.
- Check frequently to avoid drying them out.
Leftover tortillas often become stiff, so they may need extra microwave time to soften up. Monitor closely and adjust cook time as needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making corn tortillas rigid, brittle, or dry in the microwave is easy. Here are some familiar tortilla warming mistakes to avoid:
- Microwaving too long: Go for short bursts at lower power if needed.
- Not covered with a damp paper towel – The moisture prevents drying out.
- Warming too many tortillas at once – Cook fewer tortillas at a time.
- Letting tortillas overlap while cooking – Prevent uneven heating.
- Not allowing steam after heating – Cover to let steam redistribute evenly.
The proper technique will make microwave-warmed tortillas soft, warm, and tasty. Finding the perfect microwave time for your needs takes some trial and error.
Expert Tips for Microwaving Tortillas
For more microwave tortilla tips, here is wisdom from Mexican food expert Rick Bayless:
- Heat tortillas in batches of 6-8 so they steam evenly.
- Use 30-45 second bursts at 50-60% microwave power.
- Wrap tortillas in a moist paper towel or cotton napkin.
- Allow wrapped tortillas to steam for a few minutes after heating.
- Keep batches warm while cooking by wrapping them in foil or towels.
Bayless recommends a lower-powered, longer cook time. This allows the steam to soak into the tortillas, which helps them stay pliable.
Other Ways to Warm Up Tortillas
While the microwave is quick and convenient, there are a few other options for heating corn tortillas:
- Oven: Wrap tortillas in foil and bake at 300°F for 5-10 minutes. Check frequently to prevent drying.
- Skillet: Heat tortillas for 30 seconds on each side in a hot, dry skillet on the stovetop.
- Steamer: Place tortillas in a single layer in a steamer basket. Steam for 2-3 minutes.
- Toaster oven: Toast tortillas at 300°F for 2-3 minutes, observing.
- Comal or griddle: Heat tortillas directly on a hot comal or cast-iron skillet for 15-30 seconds per side.
These methods give a more authentic, toasted flavor but take longer than the microwave. They work best for heating smaller batches of tortillas.
Storing and Freezing Tortillas for Later Use
To save extra tortillas for another meal:
- Allow tortillas to cool entirely after warming.
- Stack tortillas with wax or parchment paper between each.
- Place the stack in a zip-top bag and squeeze out excess air.
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Leftover tortillas retain moisture with proper storage and can be reheated later in the microwave or other cooking methods.
In Summary:
- Microwave corn tortillas on high between damp paper towels for best results.
- Microwave time will vary based on the number of tortillas, about 30-60 seconds.
- Heat in short bursts, checking frequently to prevent drying.
- Let tortillas steam for a minute or two after heating.
- Store fully cooled tortillas with parchment paper between stacks.
FAQs
How can I heat corn tortillas in the microwave?
To heat corn tortillas in the microwave, stack them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat them in the microwave on high for about 30 seconds until they are warm and pliable.
Can I heat tortillas in the oven?
Yes, you can heat tortillas in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap a stack of tortillas in aluminum foil, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the tortillas are heated through.
Can I heat tortillas on the stove?
Absolutely! Set a dry skillet or frying pan over medium heat to heat tortillas on the stove. Place the tortillas in the skillet one at a time and cook for 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and slightly toasted.
What’s the best way to heat corn tortillas?
The best way to heat corn tortillas is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer using the microwave, while others like to use the oven or stove. You can experiment with different methods to find your favorite way.
How do I keep tortillas warm?
After heating tortillas, you can wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or aluminum foil. This will help to retain their warmth and moisture.
Can I heat corn tortillas in the oven?
Yes, you can heat corn tortillas in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap a stack of corn tortillas in aluminum foil, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the corn tortillas are heated through.
Can I heat tortillas in a toaster?
It is not recommended to heat tortillas in a toaster. Tortillas are generally too large and delicate to fit into a toaster, and they may not heat evenly or get stuck in the toaster.
How can I keep tortillas warm for a more extended period?
To keep tortillas warm for extended periods, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at a low temperature, such as 200°F (93°C). This will help to keep them warm without drying them out.
Can I heat tortillas in the microwave oven?
Yes, you can heat tortillas in the microwave oven. Place a stack of tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat the microwave at 50% power for 4 minutes, flipping the tortillas halfway through.
How long should I heat tortillas in the microwave?
It is recommended to heat tortillas in the microwave for about 30 seconds at a time until they are warm and pliable. The exact heating time may vary depending on the quantity of tortillas and the power of your microwave.
I hope these tips help you achieve warm, soft, and tasty tortillas from your microwave! Let me know if you have any other corn tortilla questions.
I’m Ian Welkins, a seasoned professional in the kitchen industry. My passion now drives me to provide invaluable insights into the world of top-notch kitchen products. With years of hands-on experience, I’m your go-to source for culinary excellence.
