How to Heat Tortillas

Tacos and burritos taste even better when made with a toasty tortilla. Stuffing and rolling them is easier, too: A warm tortilla—flour or corn—is more supple than one straight from the refrigerator. So before you spoon in the beans, vegetables, or meat, use one of these heat-’em-up methods.

Microwave: Need just enough for family dinner—and pronto? Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel or cloth and microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Toast: Impart a smoky char and a crisp texture by heating tortillas (a couple at a time) in a lightly oiled cast-iron skillet. Wrap in a dish towel to keep them warm as you go.

Steam: Wrap tortillas in a dish towel and place in a steamer basket over boiling water for 1 minute. Turn off heat and let sit in the pan, covered, for 15 minutes to warm through.