Spotlight Recipes: Baked Tortilla Chips
Proof there really is a food holiday for everything: Today is National Tortilla Chip Day. We're celebrating by making a batch of homemade baked tortilla chips! It's easier than you think -- here's how you do it.
When you make your own chips, you control the amount of oil. You still need a little bit of oil to give your chips the characteristic crunch, but you can use far less than when you deep fry. You can also control the amount of salt, and can add custom flavorings!
All you need to make your own tortilla chips is about corn tortillas (white or yellow) and neutral-flavored oil, like canola. You don't need much -- about a tablespoon is plenty for 12 tortillas, which will serve 6. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat both sides of each tortilla . Then stack up and cut into sixths. Spread them in a single layer on 2 baking sheets and bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned and crisp.
When your chips are done, give them some flavor! Sprinkle on a little salt just as they come out of the oven, or try one of these options:
- Chili powder
- Smoked paprika
- Ground cumin
- Salt mixed with lemon or lime zest
- Garlic powder
- Cinnamon and sugar
To add even more flavor to your chip, try using flavored flour or multi-grain tortillas. The possibilities are endless!
Chips without dip is like peanut butter without jelly -- sad and unjust. Save the high-fat dips for a special occasion and try a healthier option, like bean dip, salsa or guacamole.
Got leftover chips? Use 'em up to make this Mexican-inspired chile-cheese breakfast casserole.
- Cooking Channel: Tortilla Chip Taste Test
- FN Dish: Our Chefs Best Homemade Chips (and Tortillas!)
