Mexican Food Traditions–Tortilla Making

Americans of Mexican heritage began coming from Texas to northwest Ohio in the 1930s and 40s to work in the sugar beet plants, farms, and factories connected to the industrial agriculture in the area. While many stayed only temporarily, others settled here, integrating into the local culture as well as keeping many of their own traditions. Food has been one tradition that has not only thrived, but has been adopted by many people of other backgrounds. The tortilla is a basic staple, and, like many other staples, tends to be overlooked for its significance.

For more about Mexican-American foodways in northwest Ohio and for a demonstration of tortilla-maing, see the short documentary video produced by the Center and the accompanying discussion-activity guide.