Grain
corn tortilla chips.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
ALSO KNOWN AS
totopos
SERVING
CALORIES
503
PROTEIN
7.8g
CARBS
65.3g
FAT
23.4g
FIBER
5.3g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories503kcal—
Protein7.8g16%
Carbohydrates65.3g24%
Fiber5.3g19%
Sugar1.0g2%
Total fat23.4g30%
Saturated fat2.5g12%
Cholesterol0mg0%
Water2.1g—
MINERALS
Sodium15mg1%
Potassium215mg5%
Calcium174mg13%
Iron2.3mg13%
Magnesium146mg35%
Phosphorus200mg16%
Zinc2.5mg22%
Copper0.52mg58%
Selenium6.7µg12%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A4.0µg0%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0µg0%
Vitamin E3.5mg24%
Vitamin K0.70µg1%
Thiamin (B1)0.02mg2%
Riboflavin (B2)0.10mg8%
Niacin (B3)1.3mg8%
Pantothenic acid (B5)1.2mg24%
Vitamin B60.21mg12%
Folate (B9)10µg3%
Vitamin B120.36µg15%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup26g
1 tablespoon1.6g
1 teaspoon0.5g
1 oz28g
1 lb448g
1 ml0.1g
1 liter108.3g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Provides dietary fiber, which supports digestive health. Baked versions offer a lower-fat alternative to fried chips.
- ✓The nixtamalization process used for the corn increases the bioavailability of niacin (Vitamin B3), which is crucial for energy metabolism.
- ✓A source of minerals like phosphorus and magnesium, important for bone health and cellular function.
- ✓Naturally gluten-free, making them a suitable snack for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, but check for certification to ensure no cross-contamination.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Revive stale chips by spreading them on a baking sheet and heating in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until crisp again.
- 2Use as a versatile base for dishes like nachos, chilaquiles, or migas.
- 3Crush chips to use as a crunchy, gluten-free topping for salads, soups (like tortilla soup), and casseroles, or as a breading for chicken or fish.
- 4Serve as the classic accompaniment to dips such as salsa, guacamole, queso, and bean dip.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store in a cool, dry place like a pantry. After opening, seal the bag tightly with a clip or transfer chips to an airtight container to prevent them from going stale.
- Avoid storing in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause them to lose their crispness.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Are corn tortilla chips healthy?
Corn tortilla chips provide dietary fiber and essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. However, they are high in calories and fat due to frying, so they should be consumed in moderation. Choosing baked versions can significantly reduce fat intake while still providing the benefits of whole-grain corn.
How many calories and carbs are in corn tortilla chips?
A 100g serving of corn tortilla chips contains approximately 503 calories and 65.32g of carbohydrates. Because they are energy-dense and high in carbs, it is important to monitor portion sizes, especially if you are managing your weight or blood sugar.
Are corn tortilla chips gluten-free?
Yes, corn tortilla chips are naturally gluten-free as they are made from corn rather than wheat. However, you should always check the packaging for a gluten-free certification to ensure there was no cross-contamination during processing or in the added seasonings.
Are corn tortilla chips vegan?
Most plain corn tortilla chips are vegan, consisting only of corn, vegetable oil, and salt. However, flavored varieties like nacho cheese or ranch often contain dairy-based powders, so it is essential to read the ingredient list for animal products.
Are corn tortilla chips keto-friendly?
No, corn tortilla chips are not keto-friendly. With over 65g of carbohydrates per 100g, even a small serving can exceed the daily carb limit for a ketogenic diet, which typically requires staying under 20-50g of net carbs per day.
What is nixtamalization and why does it matter for these chips?
Nixtamalization is a traditional process where corn is soaked in an alkaline solution. This increases the bioavailability of niacin (Vitamin B3), which is crucial for energy metabolism, and improves the overall nutritional profile and digestibility of the corn.
How can I make corn tortilla chips healthier at home?
You can make a healthier version by cutting corn tortillas into triangles and baking them in the oven or using an air fryer. This method uses significantly less oil than commercial deep-frying, reducing the overall fat and calorie content while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
How should I store corn tortilla chips to keep them fresh?
Store chips in an airtight container or a tightly sealed bag in a cool, dry place to prevent them from absorbing moisture. If they become slightly stale, you can briefly toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispness.
How do I know if corn tortilla chips have gone bad?
While they have a long shelf life, chips will eventually become stale and lose their crunch. If you notice a rancid or 'off' smell, which comes from the oils used in frying beginning to oxidize, the chips should be discarded.
Can corn tortilla chips be used in cooking besides as a snack?
Yes, they are very versatile. They can be crushed and used as a gluten-free breading for proteins, added to soups like tortilla soup for texture, or used as the primary base for dishes like chilaquiles and nachos.
