Should I Refrigerate Tortillas? [A Quick Answer]

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Tortilla packages should be kept in a cool, dry place that doesn’t fluctuate in temperature. 

Because moisture encourages mold growth and tortilla spoilage, so, to lengthen the shelf life of tortillas, refrigeration is highly suggested.  

Should I refrigerate tortillas?

Yes, it would be best if you store tortillas in the fridge. If you have the option, keep tortillas refrigerated at all times. That’s how they’re best kept. The easiest method to keep them cool is to implement this strategy. They’ll keep up to four times longer if kept in the pantry.

For today’s issue, here is a sneak peek. You might be curious to know more. Then let’s keep moving forward.

Do Tortillas Need to Be Kept in the Refrigerator?

Tacos and quesadillas can be made with tortillas as long as they’re soft and ready. Since they are so sensitive, they must always be in good shape. I usually buy these Old El Paso Tortillas.

Nevertheless, you can use one between achiote or ancho while making tacos with tortillas.

They are never allowed to expire at any cost. They stiffen and become inedible if kept in the pantry for a week. This affects both corn tortillas and flour tortillas.

This is where the cold becomes our buddy! They’ll remain soft and tasty for an extended period by refrigerating them. Put them in the fridge if they’re not eaten up within a few days. You can also keep them in your pantry or bread box.

Safe Storage Methods for Tortillas

The methods for preserving tortillas are numerous. To make the most of their shelf life, follow these fundamental principles.

Method-1: Keeping Tortillas in the Pantry or Bread Box

An airtight bag is the best way to keep flour and corn tortillas fresh at room temperature. Close the bag carefully after each use to avoid drying out the rest.

Here are some tips for keeping tortillas at room temperature:

Pro Tips-1

Try keeping tortillas in their original packaging if you got them from the grocery store. A dark corner of your pantry or kitchen is ideal. If you can, store them in a cool, dry place.

The flavor of your bread will be ruined, and mold will form due to it being exposed to moisture.

Pro Tips-2

The same airtight container works nicely for storing tortillas. Containers of many shapes and sizes can be found on the market. Various containers made from plastics, glass, or steel are all suitable alternatives. 

A steel container is the greatest solution for containing your tortilla. 

Pro Tips-3

Instead of an airtight container, you can use plastic bags. When storing food, vacuum-sealable plastic bags are an excellent choice. 

They stay soft and tasty longer because they shield your tortillas from the elements. Zip-top and seal-top plastic food storage bags are available. You are free to select whatever bag you desire.

Recommended reading – Freezing Pate A Choux | Can You Freeze Congee | What To Do With Frozen Lettuce

Method-2: Storing Tortillas in the Fridge

Always keep tortillas in the fridge if you have the option. Don’t think refrigerators can keep all foods good. Sometimes it can make your food terrible. 

It’s the most fantastic method to keep them cool (but not frozen). Storing them in the pantry, they’ll keep their consistency and freshness up to four times better.

When storing tortillas in the fridge, be careful to follow these tips:

Pro Tips-1

It’s okay to store unopened tortillas in the fridge if you plan to eat them later. If you’ve got an open bag of tortillas or cooked tortillas, refrigerate them.

Pro Tips-2

Please place them in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator to store the tortillas. As a result, they will not be exposed to the moisture inside. For up to two weeks, you can store them in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips-3

Cling film can also be used to keep tortillas warm. Using aluminum foil as a substitute for cling film is okay. Refrigeration is an option for storing the plate. Your tortillas will remain dry in the fridge if you use the lid.

Method-3: Store Tortillas in the Freezer

The freshness of a homemade tortilla can’t be matched. But your refrigerator may be your tortilla’s greatest ally. However, do you’ve more tortillas you can’t consume in a week?

Place frozen tortillas in an airtight container or ziplock bag for long-term storage. They can last up to six months. The quality will be significantly reduced when thawed out. 

Thus I strongly advise against freezing them as a regular practice. They won’t be bad, but they won’t be as good as before.

The most likely outcome is that ice crystals will form. It will also reduce the flavor of your tortilla as you defrost it.

If you want to freeze tortillas, here are some tips for going about it. Check them below-

Pro Tips-1

You may freeze tortillas by putting them in a plastic bag and then sealing it. In the same way, you can freeze crushed pineapple. The parchment paper should be inserted between each tortilla to prevent rubbing. 

Taking them from the freezer won’t require any effort to separate them.

Pro Tips-2

Thaw your frozen tortillas in a microwave for 30 seconds for the best results. If not, heat them for 10 seconds to ensure they’re well-warmed. If they are, when you receive them, they’ll be perfectly warmed up and ready to eat.

Pro Tips-3

Using a preheated skillet to warm tortillas is an alternative to microwaves. Only one side should be browned. Finish the second side after you’ve completed the first. Don’t overheat them, or you’ll end up with burned food.

That’s what ended up our conversation here. Don’t forget to refrigerate tortillas. If you find any difficulties, you should seek the advice of a cooking expert.

Interesting further reading – Fermenting Frozen Peppers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to keep tortillas at room temperature?

Tortillas should be stored in their original container. Unrefrigerated tortillas can last up to a week if they’re properly stored.

How do you store tortillas in your pantry?

A good rule is always keeping your grocery tortillas in the original package. If possible, find a dark corner of your pantry or kitchen. A cold, dry environment is best for their storage.

Is it possible to leave the tortilla dough overnight?

It’s time to knead the dough until it’s smooth and spherical. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside for at least 30 minutes. This is useful if you want to make the dough ahead of time.

Conclusion

Now, you may have got your answer to “Should I refrigerate Tortillas?”. Let your freshly created tortillas dry at room temperature before refrigerating them.

By the way, I’m a big fan of these Old El Paso Tortillas. They are soft flour tortillas that taste like they are restaurant made. If you haven’t tried those yet, give them a try.

Finally, we’ve wrapped up our discussion. Greetings and best wishes for the day!