tortilla

views updated May 17 2018

tortilla
1. Mexican; thin maize pancake. Traditionally prepared by soaking the grain in alkali and pressing it to form a dough, which is then baked on a griddle. Tortillas filled with meat, beans, and spicy sauce are tacos. See also tamales.

2. In Spain, an omelette made by frying potatoes and onions with eggs; may be served hot or cold; also used for a variety of filled omelettes.

tortilla

views updated Jun 08 2018

tor·til·la / tôrˈtē(y)ə/ • n. (in Mexican cooking) a thin, flat pancake of cornmeal or flour, eaten hot or cold, typically with a savory filling. ∎  (in Spanish cooking) a thick omelet containing potato and other vegetables, typically served cut into wedges.

tortilla

views updated May 21 2018

tortilla in Mexico, thin round cake of maize flour. XVII. — Sp., dim. of torta round cake :- late L. (Vulg.) tōrta.

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