Tortilla Pans

Tortilla Pans: What You Need to Know

Tortilla pans – also known as comal pans – are used to cook or reheat tortillas and arepas. However, they may also be used to sear meats or further prepare food by toasting spices and cooking vegetables. Typically, they are round with an extended handle. Most pans for tortillas are safe to use on electric, gas, and induction stovetops, and they can even be used directly on a grill. Tortilla comals also can be constructed of various types of materials, including cast iron and coated aluminum. Many come equipped with special features, such as a looped handle for hanging the pan on a hook when not in use. In the section below, we'll answer commonly asked questions regarding tortilla pans.

Common Questions About Tortilla Pans

What materials are tortilla pans made of?

As previously mentioned, the majority of comal pans are constructed of cast iron or aluminum. Cast iron is seasoned, meaning it has built-up, black patina – a thin layer of the metal's oxides – which produces a nonstick surface. Cast iron actually improves after time, continually resisting sticking after years of heavy use, making it valuable for cookware. Once heated, cast iron comals also hold heat longer than other pans, withstanding high heat with their extensive durability.

Another material used for tortilla pans is coated aluminum. Aluminum pans are lightweight and relatively inexpensive, heating well and cooling off quickly. Aluminum pans also are quite resistant to corrosion, which enhances durability. A nonstick coating may be added to the aluminum to reduce food buildup so food can slide off the pan easily.

How do you use a comal pan?

As mentioned above, you can use your tortilla comal to make and heat tortillas, as well as many different types of Hispanic foods. A tortilla comal has a small lip with a completely flat surface, which is why it is initially used in making and reheating tortillas. You can use them to cook food on a stovetop or grill, over an open flame, or even in the oven. How long or what cooking method you use depends on the type of food you are cooking. For example, cooking tortillas would require different heat and time requirements than carne asada. However, you should heat the comal pan before use.

How do you care for your tortilla pan?

If you have purchased a cast iron comal, you should first season it by coating it with oil or lard. Then, rub in the substance with a towel, ensuring you wipe off excess oil for an even coating. For general comal maintenance, you should always avoid putting your comal pan in a dishwasher. Instead, once you have finished using the tortilla pan, wipe the surface down using a sponge or rag and coat it lightly with oil if it's made of cast iron. Avoid getting your tortilla pan wet, but if you must wet it, ensure you dry it off completely.