mex Mini 4-inch All-Metal Tortilla Press Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the mex Mini 4-inch All-Metal Tortilla Press. This durable, cast iron press is designed to help you quickly and easily create small, perfectly flat tortillas. Its robust construction ensures long-lasting performance. Please read this manual thoroughly before first use to ensure proper operation and maintenance.

Figure 1: The mex Mini 4-inch All-Metal Tortilla Press in its closed position, showcasing its compact design and sturdy handle.

2. Safety Instructions

• Always handle the press with care. It is made of heavy metal.
• Keep fingers clear of the hinge and pressing plates during operation to prevent pinching.
• Do not use the press for purposes other than flattening dough.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Ensure the press is placed on a stable, flat surface during use.

3. Package Contents

Your mex Mini 4-inch All-Metal Tortilla Press package should contain the following:

• 1 x mex Mini 4-inch All-Metal Tortilla Press (with integrated tortilla-making plates)

4. Setup

4.1 Initial Cleaning

1. Before first use, wipe down the entire tortilla press with a damp cloth to remove any manufacturing residues.
2. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
3. For cast iron, it is recommended to lightly oil the pressing surfaces with a food-grade oil (e.g., vegetable oil) to prevent sticking and maintain the metal. Wipe off any excess oil.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Preparing for Pressing

1. Prepare your tortilla dough according to your preferred recipe.
2. Divide the dough into small, uniform balls. For a 4-inch tortilla, a dough ball approximately 1 inch in diameter is usually suitable.
3. For best results and to prevent sticking, place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on the bottom pressing plate.

5.2 Pressing Tortillas

1. Open the tortilla press by lifting the handle.
2. Place one dough ball in the center of the bottom pressing plate, on top of the plastic wrap or parchment paper.
3. Place another piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper over the dough ball.
4. Carefully lower the top pressing plate.
5. Press down firmly on the handle to flatten the dough. Apply even pressure.
6. Lift the handle and open the press.
7. Carefully peel the flattened tortilla from the plastic wrap or parchment paper.
8. Repeat the process for remaining dough balls.

Figure 2: The tortilla press in an open position, illustrating the pressing plates where dough is placed.

6. Care and Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

• After each use, wipe down the press with a damp cloth.
• Do not immerse the entire press in water, especially if it is raw cast iron, as this can lead to rust.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, which can damage the surface.
• Dry the press thoroughly immediately after cleaning to prevent rust.

6.2 Storage

• Store the tortilla press in a dry place to prevent rust.
• If storing for an extended period, a light coating of food-grade oil on the pressing surfaces can help protect the metal.

7. Troubleshooting

• Tortillas sticking to the press: Ensure you are using plastic wrap or parchment paper on both sides of the dough. A very light coating of oil on the press surfaces can also help, but the paper method is generally more effective.
• Tortillas are not perfectly round or even: Ensure the dough ball is centered on the press. Apply firm and even pressure on the handle. The consistency of your dough also plays a significant role.
• Press feels stiff: A small amount of food-grade oil can be applied to the hinge points if movement becomes stiff.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the mex Mini 4-inch All-Metal Tortilla Press is not provided in this manual. For any warranty claims, product support, or inquiries, please contact the seller or retailer from whom you purchased the product. Please retain your proof of purchase for any potential claims.