Tortilla Chips are the tasty bi product of tortilla making. Traditionally they are fried. Baking them helps to bring out the corn flavor and cut down on necessary fat and calories. Every year February 24th is the day to pay homage to this sensational snack. Whether you prefer your tortilla chips savory or sweet, the recipes below will help you celebrate in style.
Two food pioneers have contributed to what has involved into the tortilla chip so loved today. In the 1930's Elmer Doolins was running a struggling Ice Cream Shop. He came across a $0.05 bag of corn chips known as "Fritos" Soon after Doolins bought the factory for a borrowed $100. He took to the road to sell his chips all over the southwest.
In the 1940's Rebecca Webb Carranza decided to make the most out of tortillas not good enough to be sold as such. El Zarape Tortilla began to fry the cut triangles and sell them for $0.10 in bags at their Los Angeles factory. By the 1960's they were the companies flagship product.
In the Early 60's the Frito and Lays companies merged. Carranza's innovation had become synonymous with Tex Mex cuisine. Frito-Lay, hoping to capitalize on the popularity of Frito's, took her idea to a whole new level. In 1964 they launched Doritos across the country. The snack industry has never looked back. Millions of Americans looking for a simple and satisfying snack are happy not to.
Making your own tortilla chips is easy and inexpensive. You can make them simply with a bit of salt and oil or flavor them up as directed below. However you choose, be sure to Smile, Relax and Enjoy. February 24th is not National Tortilla Chip Day for nothing!
Savory Strips
- 2 tsp Southwest Seasonings
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 8 corn tortillas
Sweet Strips
- 1 tsp Orange Vanilla Sugar
- 1 tsp Russian Mulling Spice
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 8 Corn Tortillas
Brush olive oil or butter over one side of each tortilla and sprinkle with sweet or savory seasonings. Cut each tortilla into 1" wide strips. Place strips in single layer on ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 400 F 15 to 20 minutes, or until strips are crisped and golden.
A suggestion for savory strips is to shred Monterey Jack cheese on strips and return to oven until melted. Serve with dip or salsa. Whipped cream or yogurt flavored with Coffee and chocolate spice is a divine way to enjoy the sweet strips. Make a platter with your favorite fruits and you are ready for a party.
Don't limit tortilla chips to snacking. The sweet strips added to fresh fruit make a satisfying breakfast on the go. The savory strips make the most of a sensational soup.
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Find your tortilla strip ingredients locally:
There are four Price Rites in the Springfield area and they are the go to place for fresh corn tortillas. You will find them in the far end of the produce section by the baked goods. Presently you have the choice of a 100 pack for $2.99 and a 12 pack for $1.19.
Limes, avaocvados, adobo, salsa and a whole host of tortilla fixin's can be found at Price Rite as well.
Here is a great Video from Expert Village demonstrating how to cut your tortilla chips.
Photo Credit: Shutterbean.com and Pinkbathtub
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