Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to common questions about storing homemade tortillas:
How should I store leftover homemade tortillas?
Wrap tortillas tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze tortillas for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
What’s the best way to reheat tortillas?
Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and pliable again. You can also reheat tortillas on the stove top directly over the flame for just a few seconds per side.
How can I keep tortillas soft and pliable?
Make sure to store tortillas in an airtight container or wrap to prevent them from drying out. You can also place a damp paper towel in the storage container or wrap to add moisture.
How long do fresh homemade tortillas last at room temperature?
Fresh homemade tortillas will last 2-3 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For best quality and freshness, refrigerate or freeze them.
Storing Homemade Tortillas
Homemade tortillas taste best when fresh, but they can also be stored for later use. Proper storage is important to keep your tortillas soft and prevent them from drying out or getting soggy. Here are some tips for storing homemade tortillas:
Short-Term Storage
If you will be eating the tortillas within a couple days, you can store them at room temperature in a sealed container or resealable plastic bag. Place the tortillas in a single layer separated by pieces of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keeping them at room temperature preserves freshness and softness.
Tortillas stored this way will stay fresh for 2-3 days. Make sure to seal the container well to prevent drying. You can also place a slightly damp paper towel in the container to add a bit of moisture.
Refrigerator Storage
For longer storage, refrigeration is best. Wrap tortillas tightly in plastic wrap or foil, making sure there is no air exposure. This prevents moisture loss. Tortillas will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
When ready to eat, let the refrigerated tortillas come up to room temperature before unwrapping. This prevents condensation.
Freezer Storage
For storage up to 3 months, place tortillas in freezer bags or airtight containers, making sure to remove any air. Separate layers with parchment paper.
Let frozen tortillas thaw in the refrigerator before using. Microwave just until pliable and soft again.
Storage Containers
Good storage containers for tortillas include:
- Plastic freezer bags
- Plastic food storage containers
- Foil
- Plastic wrap
- Resealable plastic bags
Look for containers that create an airtight seal to prevent drying out. Glass containers are not ideal because condensation can make tortillas soggy.
Maintaining Freshness and Texture
Proper storage methods help maintain the fresh taste and soft texture of homemade tortillas. Here are some tips:
Prevent Drying Out
Dryness makes tortillas stiff and brittle. Always store tortillas in a sealed container, plastic wrap, or foil to lock in moisture. If storing at room temperature, include a damp paper towel inside the wrapping.
Avoid Sogginess
Too much moisture causes tortillas to become soggy and limp. Do not store tortillas long-term in paper, which can absorb moisture. Let refrigerated tortillas come to room temp before opening to prevent condensation.
Freeze for Long-Term Use
For storage beyond a week, freezing is best to preserve freshness and texture. Tortillas kept continuously in the fridge will slowly dry out and lose their signature softness.
Reheat Properly
To revive tortillas to their original texture, reheat using damp paper towels in the microwave or by quickly passing over a gas flame.
Storing Different Types of Tortillas
Flour and corn tortillas have slightly different storage needs:
Flour Tortillas
Flour tortillas are more prone to drying out, so moisture control is important. Ways to preserve softness:
- Double wrap in plastic wrap or foil
- Place a damp paper towel inside the wrapping
- Store in an airtight container
Refrigerate flour tortillas for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas dry out less quickly than flour. Tips for keeping them fresh and flexible:
- Store in a sealed Ziploc bag at room temp for 2-3 days
- Refrigerate in a sealed container or bag for up to a week
- Freeze corn tortillas with parchment dividers for 3 months
Reheating Tortillas
Here are some of the best ways to reheat tortillas to restore softness and flexibility:
Microwave
Place tortillas between damp paper towels and microwave for 20-30 seconds. The moisture softens them up quickly.
Oven
Wrap tortillas in foil and place in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes until warm and pliable.
Stovetop
Place tortilla directly over a gas flame for just a few seconds per side. Use tongs to flip halfway.
Steam
Wrap tortillas in a damp towel and steam for 2-3 minutes to restore moisture and suppleness.
Common Storage Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes people make when storing tortillas, and how to avoid them:
Not sealing container
Always store tortillas in an airtight container or wrap fully in plastic or foil with no air gaps. Exposure to air causes drying.
Folding or bunching
Do not fold or bunch tortillas when storing. This can cause cracking. Instead, lay flat in a single layer.
Using paper bags or towels
Paper absorbs moisture and promotes drying. Use plastic bags, plastic wrap, or foil instead.
Storing too long in fridge
After 5 days, refrigerated tortillas will dry out. Freeze for longer storage.
Not thawing before opening
Let frozen tortillas thaw first in the fridge. Opening while frozen causes condensation and sogginess.
FAQs
Can you store tortillas at room temperature?
Yes, tortillas can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container. Any longer and they will start to dry out.
How do you freeze homemade flour tortillas?
Wrap tortillas tightly in plastic wrap, flatten in a freezer bag removing air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen tortillas in the fridge or microwave.
Why do my tortillas get hard in the fridge?
Refrigeration can dry out tortillas if not wrapped properly. Make sure to double wrap tortillas tightly in plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating.
How do you soften hard tortillas?
For slightly stiff tortillas, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave 10-20 seconds. For very stiff and hard tortillas, steaming for 2-3 minutes can rehydrate them.
Can you reheat tortillas in the oven?
Yes, you can reheat tortillas in the oven by wrapping them in foil and placing in a 350°F oven for around 5 minutes until warm and flexible again.
Tips for Storing Homemade Tortillas
- Cool tortillas thoroughly before storing
- Always seal containers and wrap tortillas airtight
- Use plastic wrap, foil, or resealable bags
- Store in a single layer, not stacked
- Place parchment between layers if freezing
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days maximum
- Freeze for long-term storage up to 3 months
- Add a damp paper towel to retain moisture
- Allow refrigerated tortillas to come to room temperature before opening
- Reheat using damp paper towels, oven, or direct heat
Conclusion
With the proper storage methods, you can enjoy fresh, homemade tortillas for days after making them. Keep tortillas sealed airtight to prevent drying out, refrigerate for up to 5 days, and freeze for longer term storage. Reheating using a bit of steam is a great way to restore their soft, pliable texture. Follow these guidelines, and your tortillas will stay soft and delicious.