Over in Veracruz, one of the most popular methods of eating tortillas is by “inflating” them. Commonly referred to as “gorditas”, the food is comprised of corn masa dough and at least one other ingredient that involves starch such as mashed plantain or mashed beans. Typically gorditas range between savory and sweet, but one trait they all share in common is their tendency to puff up when they’re being cooked. Contrary to what you might think, it’s not hard to become skilled at preparing a “gordita inflada”. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vegetable oil to fry the gordita
- A large and ripe plantain (one quarter) cut and peeled into ¼-inch slices
- A half teaspoon of salt
- A quarter cup of milk and all-purpose flour
- A pound of of fresh masa
Begin by blending the plantain along with the milk in a blender. Using a separate mixing bowl of medium size, mix in the puree with the masa, the flour, and the salt and then work it into a dough using your hands. If necessary, add some more flour, about half a tablespoon at a time until the dough is smooth, firm, but pliable. Taste it for salt and add some more if you feel it’s necessary.
Separate the dough into twelve ping-pong sized balls and keep them covered with a damp cloth while you continue preparing. Once ready, press each ball into a five-inch round and place them on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
Heat the oil to about 375 degrees Fahrenheit or until a piece of dough begins to sizzle upon contact, also make sure to have a spatula or large cooking spoon ready. Place the balls or gorditas into the oil and flick spoonfuls of oil over them to make sure they evenly puff. Do this for about 20 seconds or so before turning them over and then continue for another 10 to 15 seconds.
Remove the gorditas and allow the oil to drain. Though inflation times will vary, you’ll enjoy them the most when they’re fresh out of the pan and still nice and hot.
This update or recipe is provided by tortilla company Easy Foods Incorporated. Our wholesale tortillas products include corn tortillas, flour tortillas, tortilla chips, and wraps. For more information on our services or brands like Tacomex and Vedgee, please call 305-928-1593. Our business hours are 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday Eastern time and we are closed on weekends.
Leave a Comment