According to the Tortilla Industry Association (TIA), sales of tortillas have reached record levels and have become the second most popular bread type in America. Sales of tortillas far surpass those of whole wheat bread, bagels, and rolls. The tortilla accounts for over 32 percent of sales of the U.S. bread industry.
Much of this growth is attributed not only to the growing Hispanic population, but to increasing consumption among non-Hispanics as well. Tortillas are also becoming more diverse with new flavors, packaging, and sizes being introduced almost daily. Tomato and jalapeno flavored varieties are two of the highest selling tortillas.
Wheat Bread
Another reason for the tremendous growth has been the innovative uses of tortillas. They are not just for tacos and burritos anymore. Some of the alternative ways that tortillas are being eaten are with casseroles and stews, with hot dogs, with the traditional peanut butter and jelly, and even with apples, cinnamon, and sugar for a non-traditional dessert.
Tortilla chips, which are made from corn tortillas that have been cut into wedges and then fried, have also gained tremendously in popularity and are closing in on overtaking the potato chip as Americas favorite snack food. These chips are made from corn, lime, and water and are fried in oil and salted.
Though handmade in many households, most tortillas are made in factories with high-end machinery. These factories are very common and can be found in any city or town. Traditionally made of corn, much of the tortilla consumption in the U.S. (and northern Mexico) is of the flour variety, wheat flour. One reason for the rise in flour tortillas is their ability to keep and ship well.
Tortillas are also increasingly made at home. With the help of a tortilla press, this once very time consuming job is now an enjoyable and productive way to spend an hour or two with friends or family. A tortilla press, which is usually made of metal or wood, is an inexpensive appliance which makes the work of tortilla making fast and enjoyable. And nothing comes close to the taste of a still warm, just-off-the-grill tortilla.
Tortilla Press
The above article was written by M. Ruiz. Further information regarding the tortilla press may be obtained from Tortilla Press.
Related : cuisinart multiclad unlimited 12 piece cookware cuisinart chefs classic 17 piece cookware set
0 comments:
Post a Comment