Tortilla Presses: The Key to Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Tortilla presses are an essential tool for anyone who loves authentic Mexican cuisine. These presses turn masa dough into perfectly round and even tortillas that can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos to enchiladas. While tortilla presses may seem intimidating at first, they are actually quite easy to use and can be a fun addition to any kitchen. 

The History of Tortilla Presses

The history of tortillas dates back thousands of years to the indigenous people of Mexico and Central America, who used corn to make flatbreads similar to modern-day tortillas. These early tortillas were made by hand, with the dough being shaped and flattened between the palms of the hands before being cooked on a comal, a flat griddle made of clay or cast iron.

The invention of the tortilla press revolutionized the way tortillas were made, allowing for a more uniform shape and thickness. The first tortilla presses were made of wood and consisted of two flat, circular pieces that were hinged together. The dough was placed between the two pieces and pressed down, creating a perfectly round tortilla. These early presses were simple and effective, and many Mexican households still use wooden tortilla presses today.

Over time, tortilla presses evolved to include other materials, such as cast iron and aluminum, which made them more durable and easier to clean. Today, tortilla presses come in a variety of sizes and styles, from traditional wooden presses to electric presses that do all the work for you.

Types of Tortilla Presses

There are three main types of tortilla presses: wooden, cast iron, and aluminum. Each type has its own unique characteristics and benefits.

Wooden Tortilla Presses

Wooden tortilla presses are the traditional choice for making homemade tortillas. These presses are typically made of hardwood, such as oak or pine, and are often hand-crafted by skilled artisans. Wooden presses are lightweight and easy to use, and they give tortillas a rustic, authentic look and feel.

One of the main benefits of wooden tortilla presses is that they are very affordable. You can find a good-quality wooden press for under $20, making them an excellent choice for anyone on a budget. However, wooden presses may not be as durable as other types of presses and may require more maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Cast Iron Tortilla Presses

Cast iron tortilla presses are a popular choice for many home cooks. These presses are heavy and durable, and they are capable of pressing tortillas to a consistent thickness and size. Cast iron presses often have a textured surface, which gives tortillas a slightly rougher texture that's perfect for holding fillings like meat and beans.

One of the main benefits of cast iron tortilla presses is their durability. These presses can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. However, cast iron presses can be quite heavy, which may be a drawback for some people. They can also be more expensive than wooden presses, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 or more.

Aluminum Tortilla Presses

Aluminum tortilla presses are a newer option, but they have quickly become popular among home cooks. These presses are lightweight and easy to use, and they often come with non-stick surfaces that make cleaning a breeze. Aluminum presses are also very affordable, with prices ranging from around $10 to $30.

One of the main benefits of aluminum tortilla presses is their ease of use. These presses require very little effort to use, as the aluminum plates are very easy to press down. However, aluminum presses may not be as durable as wooden or cast iron presses, and they may not give tortillas the same rustic appearance.

Tips for Using a Tortilla Press

Using a tortilla press is easy, but there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure that your tortillas come out perfectly every time.

Use the Right Amount of Dough

The amount of dough you use will depend on the size of your tortilla press. For a 6-inch press, use about 1 to 1 1/2 ounces of dough. For a 10-inch press, use about 2 to 2 1/2 ounces of dough. Use a kitchen scale to measure the dough for consistent results.

Use Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper

To prevent the dough from sticking to the press, place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on the bottom and top of the dough ball before pressing it. This will also make it easier to remove the tortilla from the press.