To keep store-bought corn tortillas from tearing or breaking when rolling them into enchiladas, you can follow these tips:
Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas slightly before rolling them. This helps make them more pliable and less likely to break. You can warm them in a dry skillet or microwave them for a few seconds until they become soft and flexible.
Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas are generally more flexible and less likely to break than older ones. If possible, purchase tortillas that are still within their expiration date or make your own if you have the means to do so.
Double up the tortillas: Consider using two tortillas for each enchilada. This provides extra support and reduces the chance of tearing. Simply overlap two tortillas slightly and fill them with your desired enchilada filling.
Dip the tortillas in warm sauce: Dip each tortilla briefly in warm enchilada sauce or another sauce you are using for your enchiladas. This can help soften the tortilla and make it less likely to tear when rolled.
Use a moist filling: If your filling is dry, it can cause the tortillas to crack or break. Ensure your filling has enough moisture to keep the tortillas pliable. You can include ingredients like salsa, sauce, or cheese that will add moisture to the filling.
Roll the tortillas gently: When rolling the enchiladas, handle the tortillas with care to prevent tearing. Start rolling from one end, tucking the filling in tightly, and continue rolling until the enchilada is formed. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the baking dish to help keep them together.
Properly sauce the enchiladas: Make sure to generously cover the rolled tortillas with sauce before baking. The sauce will further soften the tortillas as they cook, reducing the chances of them tearing.
Add cheese or other toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese or any desired toppings over the enchiladas before baking. This can act as an additional protective layer, helping to hold the tortillas together during the cooking process.
By following these tips, you can help prevent store-bought corn tortillas from tearing or breaking when rolling them into enchiladas, resulting in a delicious and visually appealing dish.