Base for nachos

A base for nachos is the foundational layer of tortilla chips, typically served plain or lightly seasoned, which supports all the other toppings. It is made primarily from corn or flour tortillas cut into triangles and fried or baked until crispy. This dish is a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, originating in the border regions of Texas and Mexico.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

The base is primarily a source of carbohydrates and fat, with a modest amount of protein. It provides key minerals like iron and magnesium, with a typical serving containing roughly 150-200 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	150 kcal
Protein	2 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	8 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	120 mg
Iron	1 mg
Magnesium	20 mg
Phosphorus	50 mg
Potassium	45 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.1 mg
Folate	15 mcg
Calcium	30 mg
Selenium	2 mcg

Per 1 ounce (28 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The simplicity of the base is its strength, acting as a neutral, crunchy canvas for a vast array of flavorful toppings. Nutritionally, choosing baked chips can significantly reduce fat content compared to traditional fried versions.