tortilla
A tortilla is a type of thin, unleavened flatbread, traditionally made from corn or wheat flour. In its original Mexican context, it is a staple food used as a base for tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas, serving almost like a utensil to hold ingredients. While the term is synonymous with Mexican cuisine, it is also used in Spain to refer to a thick omelet made with eggs and potatoes. In casual English conversation, it is most commonly associated with the flatbread version, often used when discussing quick meals, wraps, or "taco nights."
In conversation
Planning dinner
Are we having tacos tonight?
Are we having tacos tonight?
Yeah, I just need to pick up some fresh tortillas.
Yeah, I just need to pick up some fresh tortillas.
Used here to refer to the essential ingredient for a meal.
Making a snack
I'm starving. Can I just melt cheese on a tortilla?
I'm starving. Can I just melt cheese on a tortilla?
Sure, that's basically a quesadilla!
Sure, that's basically a quesadilla!
Shows the versatility of the bread for quick snacks.
Examples
She warmed the tortilla on the stove.
She warmed the tortilla on the stove.
Corn tortillas are often preferred for authentic street tacos.
Corn tortillas are often preferred for authentic street tacos.
The recipe calls for a large flour tortilla to wrap the burrito tightly.
The recipe calls for a large flour tortilla to wrap the burrito tightly.
