Looking for a tasty and nutritious wrap option for your meals? Look no further than the humble corn tortilla! With just 80 calories per serving (one tortilla weighing 27.2 grams), corn tortillas are a delicious and healthy choice for anyone looking to add some variety to their diet.

In addition to being low in calories, corn tortillas are also a good source of dietary fiber, with 1 gram per serving. They also provide small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium and iron, making them a great option for those looking to boost their nutrient intake.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the benefits of corn tortillas, some tasty recipes you can make using them, and give you tips on how to choose and store them properly.

Serving Size

As mentioned, a serving of corn tortilla is one tortilla weighing 27.2 grams. If you're using them as a wrap, you may need to use more than one to make a full meal, but be aware that this will increase the calorie count accordingly. It's always important to keep an eye on portion sizes when trying to maintain a healthy diet, so be sure to measure out your tortillas if you're using them to make a meal.

Calorie Content

As mentioned earlier, one corn tortilla weighs 27.2 grams and contains 80 calories. This is relatively low compared to other wrap options such as flour tortillas, which can contain upwards of 120-150 calories per tortilla, depending on the size. If you're watching your calorie intake, choosing corn tortillas over other wrap options can help you cut back without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Macronutrient Breakdown

In addition to being low in calories, corn tortillas also provide some essential macronutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, and a small amount of fat. One corn tortilla contains around 15 grams of carbohydrate, 2 grams of protein, and 1 gram of fat. While this may not seem like a lot, remember that tortillas are typically used as a wrap or vessel for other ingredients, so you'll likely be getting additional macronutrients from those ingredients as well.

Corn Tortilla vs Other Wraps

As mentioned earlier, corn tortillas are a lower calorie option compared to other wrap choices such as flour tortillas or pita bread. They are also typically gluten-free, making them a good choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. However, they can be less pliable and more prone to cracking than other wraps, so you may need to be more careful when handling them.

Benefits of Corn Tortillas

In addition to being low in calories and gluten-free, corn tortillas offer a variety of other health benefits. For example, they are high in dietary fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer after eating. They are also often fortified with additional nutrients such as calcium and iron, making them a good choice for those looking to boost their nutrient intake without adding too many calories to their diet.

Recipes using Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas can be used in a variety of recipes, from classic tacos and enchiladas to more creative options like quesadillas, tostadas, or even breakfast burritos! To get you started, here is a simple and delicious recipe for chicken tacos using corn tortillas: Ingredients: - 8 corn tortillas - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon cumin - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper, to taste - Toppings of your choice (salsa, avocado, shredded cheese, etc.) Directions: 1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. 2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into small pieces. 3. Warm the tortillas in the microwave or in a dry skillet for 30-60 seconds. 4. Assemble your tacos with the sliced chicken and desired toppings. Enjoy!

Corn Tortillas for Special Diets

As mentioned earlier, corn tortillas are typically gluten-free, making them a good choice for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. They can also be used in vegan or vegetarian recipes, and are a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. However, be sure to check the ingredient label to ensure that the tortillas don't contain any animal products or additives that may not align with your dietary needs.

How to Store Corn Tortillas

To keep your corn tortillas fresh and tasty, it's important to store them properly. If you have uncooked tortillas, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 6 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. If you have cooked tortillas, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Choosing the Right Corn Tortillas

When choosing corn tortillas, it's important to look for high-quality options that are made with simple, whole food ingredients. Avoid brands that contain additives like preservatives or artificial colors and flavors, as these can detract from the nutrition and flavor of the tortillas. If possible, choose organic or non-GMO options to ensure that the corn used in the tortillas was grown without harmful chemicals or genetic modification.

Making Corn Tortillas from Scratch

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own corn tortillas from scratch! To make homemade corn tortillas, you'll need masa harina (corn flour), hot water, and a tortilla press. Here's a simple recipe to get you started: Ingredients: - 2 cups masa harina - 1 1/2 cups hot water - Pinch of salt Directions: 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. 2. Add the hot water and stir until a dough forms. Knead for a few minutes until the dough is smooth and pliable. 3. Divide the dough into small balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and flatten them slightly. 4. Place a ball of dough on the tortilla press, then press down firmly to flatten the dough into a thin tortilla. 5. Carefully transfer the tortilla to a hot, dry skillet or griddle. Cook for 30-60 seconds on each side, until lightly browned and cooked through. 6. Repeat with the remaining dough balls, stacking the finished tortillas on a plate and covering with a towel to keep them warm. Enjoy your homemade corn tortillas with your favorite fillings!