Panamanian Tortillas Thick Corn Cakes
Experience a taste of Panama with these irresistibly golden and crispy Panamanian Tortillas, thick corn cakes made from masa harina and fried to perfection. These hearty discs are a delightful twist on traditional tortillas, boasting a soft, tender interior and a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. With just four simple ingredients—masa harina, warm water, salt, and vegetable oil—you can create an authentic and versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serve these corn cakes warm, piled high with your favorite toppings like creamy avocado, crumbled cheese, or a perfectly fried egg, or enjoy them plain as a comforting side to soups or stews. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is a flavorful way to bring the essence of Panamanian cuisine to your table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
- 1.5 cups warm water
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt. Gradually add the warm water a little at a time, mixing with your hands until the dough comes together and has a smooth, pliable consistency. The dough should feel moist but not sticky.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. Flatten each ball into a thick disc, about 3-4 inches in diameter and 0.5 inches thick. You can shape them by hand or use a tortilla press lined with plastic wrap to prevent sticking.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
Carefully place 2-3 tortillas in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.
Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the fried tortillas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Serve warm, topped with your choice of cheese, avocado slices, fried eggs, or any desired toppings. These tortillas are also delicious served plain as a side to soups or stews.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1890 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 127.6 g | 164% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.1 g | 90% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1192 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 184.6 g | 67% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.5 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.4 g | ||
| Protein | 21.4 g | 43% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 360 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 756 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
