Tortilla chip

Tortilla Chip

A bowl of tortilla chips served at a restaurant

A tortilla chip is a type of snack food made from corn tortillas, which are cut into wedges and then fried or baked. Corn tortillas are made from corn, vegetable oil, salt, and water. Although first mass-produced in the United States in the late 1940s, tortilla chips are considered a Mexican food, known as "totopos." They are typically served with salsa, guacamole, or other dips.

History

The invention of the tortilla chip is credited to Rebecca Webb Carranza, who owned a tortilla factory in Los Angeles. In the 1940s, she began selling the misshapen tortillas that were rejected from the production line as a snack. These chips became popular and were eventually mass-produced.

Production

Tortilla chips are made from corn tortillas, which are cut into triangles and then fried or baked. The process begins with the preparation of the corn dough, known as masa. The masa is flattened into thin discs to form tortillas, which are then cut into wedges. These wedges are cooked until they are crisp and golden brown.

Varieties

Tortilla chips come in various flavors and colors, depending on the type of corn used and any additional flavorings. Common varieties include:

• Yellow Corn Chips: Made from yellow corn, these are the most common type of tortilla chips.
• White Corn Chips: Made from white corn, these chips have a milder flavor.
• Blue Corn Chips: Made from blue corn, these chips have a distinctive color and a slightly sweeter taste.
• Flavored Chips: Some tortilla chips are seasoned with spices, cheese, or other flavorings.

Uses

A girl enjoying tortilla chips with pico de gallo

Tortilla chips are often served as a snack or appetizer. They are commonly paired with salsa, guacamole, or queso dip. In Mexican cuisine, they are used in dishes such as nachos, where they are topped with melted cheese and other ingredients.

Cultural Significance

Tortilla chips have become a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine and are popular in the United States and around the world. They are often associated with Cinco de Mayo celebrations and are a common feature at parties and gatherings.

Related Pages

• Nachos
• Salsa (sauce)
• Guacamole
• Tex-Mex cuisine