Corn chips and tortilla chips are very similar snacks, but there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, cooking methods, flavors, shapes, and uses for corn chips vs. tortilla chips to understand the distinction between these popular chip varieties.
Definitions
First, let’s clarify exactly what corn chips and tortilla chips are:
- Corn chips are made from cornmeal that has been fried or baked into chip form.
- Tortilla chips are made from fried or baked tortillas that are cut into chip shapes.
Ingredients
The main ingredients in traditional corn chips and tortilla chips are:
| Corn Chips | Tortilla Chips |
|---|---|
| Cornmeal | Corn flour or masa harina |
| Vegetable oil | Vegetable oil |
| Salt | Salt |
As you can see, both contain corn as the main ingredient. However, corn chips use cornmeal, while tortilla chips use corn flour or masa harina, which is ground nixtamalized corn. This gives tortilla chips a distinct flavor.
Cooking Methods
The cooking process also differs:
- Corn chips are made from cornmeal dough that is formed into shapes and then fried or baked.
- Tortilla chips start with tortillas that are cut into shapes before frying or baking.
Frying gives both types of chips a crispy texture, while baking makes them crunchy and lower in fat.
Flavors
Traditional corn chips and tortilla chips are both flavored with just salt. However, there are now many flavor varieties available, including:
- Corn chips: Nacho cheese, barbecue, sour cream and onion, ranch, etc.
- Tortilla chips: Nacho cheese, salsa, jalapeño, lime, etc.
The flavor options for tortilla chips tend to be based on Mexican seasonings and ingredients to complement their origins.
Shapes
Corn chips and tortilla chips come in different classic shapes:
- Corn chips: Triangles, rounds, scoops, cylinders
- Tortilla chips: Triangles
Corn chips have more variety in shapes from different brands. Tortilla chips are almost always triangular due to the triangular wedge shape that results from cutting round tortillas.
Uses
Both corn chips and tortilla chips are commonly used:
- As a snack on their own
- With dips like salsa, guacamole, and queso
- In Tex-Mex dishes like nachos
- As a salad topping
- In casseroles or chilis
However, corn chips are more often used in American cuisine, while tortilla chips align with Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines.
Nutrition
The nutrition profile of corn chips versus tortilla chips is fairly comparable:
| Nutrition Facts | Corn Chips (1 oz) | Tortilla Chips (1 oz) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 140 |
| Fat | 9 g | 7 g |
| Carbs | 16 g | 18 g |
| Protein | 2 g | 2 g |
| Sodium | 170 mg | 105 mg |
They are both high in calories, carbs, and fat due to being deep fried in oil. Tortilla chips tend to be slightly lower in fat and calories compared to corn chips.
Price
Corn chips tend to cost slightly less than tortilla chips. Here are some average prices:
- Corn chips: $2-$3 per 8 oz bag
- Tortilla chips: $2.50-$4 per 8 oz bag
The thicker, heartier texture and flavor of tortilla chips makes them a bit pricier for some brands.
Popularity
Both corn chips and tortilla chips are beloved snacks. However, corn chips seem to edge out tortilla chips slightly in overall popularity.
According to Statista data, corn chips generated over $6 billion in sales compared to $4.7 billion for tortilla chips in 2020 in the United States. Both chips have been on the rise in sales over the past decade.
Conclusion
In summary, while corn chips and tortilla chips share some similarities, there are definite differences that set them apart:
- Corn chips use cornmeal while tortilla chips use masa harina
- Corn chips have more varied shapes and flavors
- Tortilla chips have a signature flavor from nixtamalization
- Corn chips cost slightly less than tortilla chips
- Corn chips are slightly more popular overall
So while both make for tasty snacks and complements to dips, corn chips and tortilla chips are unique in their recipes, textures, and uses. When choosing between the two, consider whether you prefer the hearty corn flavor of corn chips or the authentic taste of real tortilla chips. Either way, you can’t go wrong with these crispy, crunchy classics!