What do you do if you need a kitchen tool not available for purchase? This was a common dilemma for the US-Mexican culture, used to making homemade tortillas with a functional press.
Imagine a quaint Mexican village and a local cook famous for her delicious homemade tortillas. Tired of using a rolling pin, she decided to create her own tortilla press from scrap wood and hinges. After days of effort, she crafted a beautiful, functional press inspiring others to make their own. Could this be the story behind our find?
Homemade tortilla press found at local flea market
The first significant wave of Mexican migration began around 1910, coinciding with the Mexican Revolution of 1910-1920.
Mexican cuisine is rich and diverse, with the majority of dishes featuring tortillas, uniquely made by hand and formed in a tortilla press.
Tortilla presses did not begin to appear in the U.S. until the early 1900s, coinciding with the Mexican migration. The presses were typically brought by Mexican immigrants who sought to maintain their culinary traditions while adapting to life in the U.S.
Individuals within Mexican communities have traditionally made homemade tortilla presses, and many families have passed down the knowledge of how to make them. The homemade tortilla press is a blend of personal, familial, and cultural practices.
As the demand for authentic Mexican food has grown, tortilla presses have become a common kitchen tool among home cooks interested in making fresh
tortillas. Today, they are more widely available in American kitchen supply stores in various styles and materials, reflecting their integration into American culinary practices.
Treasures and Tales discovers that every object holds a story waiting to be told. Join us as we explore the possible stories behind the treasures we find.
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