The process transforms ordinary corn tortillas into crisp, golden-brown platforms suitable for a variety of toppings. This culinary method involves baking tortillas until they achieve a desired level of rigidity and crunch, resulting in a texture that complements both wet and dry ingredients. For example, tortillas can be brushed with oil, seasoned, and then baked until crispy, providing a foundation for beans, meat, vegetables, and salsa.
This oven-based approach offers several advantages. It provides a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it significantly reduces the amount of oil absorbed by the tortilla. Moreover, it allows for batch preparation, enabling efficient production for larger gatherings or meal prepping. Historically, similar drying techniques have been employed to preserve tortillas and create durable, edible vessels.