What is the most common answer for 'Mexican pancake' in crosswords?

The most common answers often refer to 'ENCHILADA' due to its rolled, pancake-like base, or 'TORTILLA', which is the fundamental flatbread itself and can be considered a 'Mexican pancake'.

Why is a tortilla sometimes called a 'Mexican pancake'?

A tortilla is a round, flat unleavened bread, very similar in shape and cooking method to a pancake, though typically savory and made from corn or wheat flour. It serves as the base for many Mexican dishes.

Are there other Mexican dishes that resemble pancakes?

Beyond tortillas and enchiladas, dishes like sopes or gorditas are also made from masa (corn dough) and shaped into thick, round forms that might loosely resemble a very thick pancake or fritter, though 'tortilla' and 'enchilada' are the most direct fits for the clue.

mexican pancake crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Searching for the answer to "mexican pancake crossword clue"? You've come to the right place. We've compiled the best possible solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Let's solve it together!

Solutions for "mexican pancake crossword clue" by Letter Count

9 Letters

ENCHILADA: A traditional Mexican dish made from a corn or wheat tortilla, typically rolled around a filling (like cheese, meat, or beans) and covered with a chili pepper sauce. Its flat, round base before rolling makes the 'pancake' comparison apt.

8 Letters

TORTILLA: A thin, flat, circular unleavened flatbread made from corn or wheat flour, a staple in Mexican cuisine. It is often used as the wrapper for various dishes and fundamentally resembles a pancake in its flat, round form.

More About "mexican pancake crossword clue"

The clue "mexican pancake" cleverly points to a core element of Mexican gastronomy. While not literally a pancake in the sweet, breakfast sense, the reference highlights the flat, circular nature of key Mexican food items. The most direct interpretation often leads to the tortilla, which is the foundational flatbread upon which much of Mexican cuisine is built. Cooked on a comal (a flat griddle), tortillas share the griddle-cooked, round characteristic of pancakes.

Expanding on this, the enchilada is a perfect fit because it uses a tortilla as its base. An enchilada is essentially a filled and sauced rolled tortilla, transforming the simple "pancake" into a hearty, flavorful meal. Crossword setters love clues that use descriptive but non-literal terms, and "Mexican pancake" is a prime example of leading solvers to think about the underlying form of a common dish rather than its exact culinary classification.

Understanding these culinary connections helps not just with this specific clue but also with a broader range of food-related crossword puzzles, encouraging lateral thinking about ingredients and preparation methods.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Think Foundation First: For clues like "Mexican pancake," consider what fundamental ingredient or base aligns with the description (e.g., tortilla) before thinking of elaborate dishes built upon it (e.g., enchilada).
Consider Synonyms & Metaphors: Crossword clues often use metaphorical language. "Pancake" here isn't literal but describes a flat, round form. Always ask what characteristic is being emphasized.
Check Letter Count Early: If you have an idea, quickly count the letters. If it doesn't match the available spaces, it's not the right answer, even if conceptually sound. This helps narrow down options quickly.
Context is Key: While not heavily present in this specific clue, always look at surrounding letters and intersecting words to confirm your chosen answer.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a tortilla and a pancake?

While both are flat and round, tortillas are typically made from corn or wheat flour (often masa harina for corn tortillas), are unleavened, and savory, serving as bread or wrappers for meals. Pancakes are usually made from a leavened batter, often contain eggs and milk, and are sweet, served as a breakfast item.

Is an enchilada always made with a corn tortilla?

Traditionally, enchiladas are made with corn tortillas, which are more common in Mexico. However, in some regions, particularly outside of Mexico, wheat flour tortillas are also used to make enchiladas, offering a softer texture.

How do I improve my knowledge of food-related crossword clues?

Reading about diverse cuisines, paying attention to food documentaries, and even cooking can enhance your vocabulary for food-related clues. Many clues rely on common ingredients, national dishes, or culinary terms. Regular practice with food-themed puzzles also helps.