National Tortilla Day

A group of friends enjoying a tortilla feast, wearing colorful sombreros, in a festive Mexican courtyard.. — National tortilla day illustration

Get ready to feast your eyes and your taste buds because it's time to celebrate National Tortilla Day! This savory holiday brings us the perfect excuse to indulge in our favorite Mexican delicacy. So, gather your loved ones, put on your stretchiest pants, and let's dive into the sizzling world of tortillas!

When is Tortilla Day?

It's national tortilla day on the 24th February.

A Brief History of Tortillas

While it's difficult to pinpoint the exact origins of tortillas, one thing is for sure – they've been satisfying hunger for centuries! Native American tribes, including the Aztecs and Mayans, were making corn tortillas long before the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Americas.

Tortillas have come a long way since their humble beginnings. The traditional corn tortilla, made from masa dough, has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for generations. However, flour tortillas gained popularity in the 19th century when wheat became more readily available.

Today, tortillas have become a global sensation. They're not only a key component of Mexican cuisine but also a versatile wrap used in an array of international dishes. From tacos and burritos to quesadillas and enchiladas, tortillas have captured the hearts and appetites of people worldwide.

How to Celebrate National Tortilla Day

Ready to embark on a tortilla-filled adventure? Here are a few fun and delicious ways to celebrate:

Host a Taco Night: Invite your friends and family over for a taco extravaganza. Set up a DIY taco bar with a variety of fillings, salsas, and, of course, plenty of tortillas.
Try a New Recipe: Step out of your comfort zone and explore different cuisines that incorporate tortillas. Whip up some mouthwatering enchiladas, fajitas, or even a tasty dessert like deep-fried tortillas with cinnamon sugar!
Visit a Mexican Restaurant: Treat yourself to an authentic Mexican feast at your favorite local eatery. Indulge in classics like chiles rellenos, tamales, and, of course, lots of tortillas.
Take a Cooking Class: Sign up for a cooking class and learn how to make your own tortillas from scratch. There's nothing quite like the taste of a freshly made tortilla!
Spread the Love: Share the joy of National Tortilla Day with others. Make extra tortillas or help out at a local food bank to ensure everyone gets to enjoy this delectable treat.

History behind the term 'Tortilla'

10,000 BCE

Ancient Beginnings

The history of the tortilla dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that tortillas were being made as early as 10,000 BCE by indigenous peoples in what is now Mexico. These early tortillas were made using a primitive form of maize, a staple crop of Mesoamerican civilizations.

1519

Encounter with the Spanish

In 1519, when Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés and his troops arrived in Mexico, they encountered the indigenous peoples and their traditional foods, including tortillas. The Spanish were introduced to this flatbread, and it soon became an important part of their diet as well.

18th Century

Industrial Revolution & Tortilla Press

During the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution brought significant advancements in technology and food processing. One such invention was the tortilla press, which mechanized the process of making tortillas. This innovation made it easier and more efficient to produce tortillas on a larger scale.

1848

Tortilla in the United States

In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War, resulting in a large Mexican population residing in the newly acquired territories of the United States. With the migration of Mexicans, tortillas started to gain popularity in the southwestern states of the US, like Texas and California.

20th Century

Commercialization and Globalization

Throughout the 20th century, the popularity of tortillas continued to rise. As Mexican cuisine gained recognition and appreciation worldwide, tortillas became a staple in many international dishes. Tortilla production became industrialized, and various types of tortillas, such as corn and flour tortillas, were introduced to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.

Present Day

Tortilla's Universal Appeal

Today, tortillas are enjoyed by people all over the world. They are not only a crucial component of Mexican and Latin American cuisine but have also become a versatile ingredient in international dishes like wraps, tacos, burritos, and more. Tortilla chips, a popular snack, have also gained widespread popularity.

Did you know?

Did you know that the largest tortilla in the world was made in Mexico? It measured a whopping 49.09 meters in diameter and weighed over two tons! Now that's a tortilla you can really sink your teeth into!