What You Need to Know
The nixtamalization process involves soaking corn in limewater to remove the pericarp and germ, making the starches more accessible to enzymes. The dough is then mixed with water and other ingredients, kneaded, and rested to develop the gluten. The tortilla is cooked on a griddle or comal at a high temperature.
Steps
- 1.
Tacos al pastor (Mexico): Base for marinated pork with pineapple
- 2.
Pupusas (El Salvador): Stuffed masa cakes with cheese/beans
- 3.
Chilaquiles (Mexico): Fried tortilla strips in salsa
The Science
Primary Reaction
Nixtamalization