VIDEO: How to Cure A Comal: Cal 101

The most important recommendation I give to those who are serious about taking their Mexican cuisine to the next level is to A: make your own damn tortillas and B: do it on clay instead of cast iron. Comales de barro need to be treated in order to prevent tortillas from sticking to the surface of the clay. The powdered cal helps seal the pores of the clay allowing for a nonstick surface.

NIXTAMAL

nixtamalli/nistaˈmalːi/

Classical Nahuatl:

Noun

1. ashes, nextli

2. unformed corn dough, tamalli

What is cal?

Cal or calcium hydroxide is primarily used in Mexico for nixtamal, the pre-Hispanic technique to process whole maiz kernels for grinding into masa for tortillas. In the US this cal is also known as “pickling lime.” Not only does the cal make the maiz easier to grind, it increases the nutritional value and the toxins within the kernels themselves are reduced. We are not sure how the ancient peoples of Mexico discovered the chemical reaction, but it supported the rise of the great Mesoamerican Empires.

Cal - 1 oz

$3.00

Use cal mexicana (also known as calcium dioxide) to seal your comal and prevent tortillas from sticking to the porous surface. Cal is primarily used in Mexican cuisine for nixtamal, the pre-Hispanic technique to process whole maiz kernels for grinding into masa for tortillas, but is also used to seal a comal. This calcium dioxide is food grade, slacked lime.

This natural, food-grade calcium dioxide (also known as slacked lime) helps seal your comal's porous surface, preventing sticking and ensuring flawlessly cooked tortillas.

While Cal Mexicana is traditionally used in nixtamal, the ancient Mexican technique for processing corn into masa, it also works wonders on your comal. Simply apply a thin layer for long-lasting protection and a smooth cooking experience.

How to Use:

1. Use one part cal to one part water (start with 2 tablespoons of cal) and mix thoroughly so no lumps appear.

2. Paint a thin layer on the surface of the comal, repeat a second time and allow to air dry.

3. Repeat as necessary. Cal will naturally flake off on your tortillas and this is completely normal.

Purchase

Method:

Mix one part cal to one part water to make a thin paste. Yes, it’s that simple. Then paint it on your comal and allow it to dry, and then repeat a second time.

When bits of the cal flake off into your tortillas or tomatillos during cooking, don’t panic, think of it as added niacin mineral intake! When the cal starts to flake off or it becomes soiled, I use a metal brush to scrape off the cal and then clean the surface with water and repaint it again.