There’s something truly special about making flour tortillas from scratch. The simple mix of flour, water, and a bit of salt transforms into warm, soft tortillas that are incredibly satisfying. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or just enjoying with a pat of butter, these homemade tortillas are a versatile staple that can elevate any meal. Grab your rolling pin, and let’s get started on this easy recipe that promises authentic flavor and texture with every bite.
Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and pour in hot water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead with your hands for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a smooth ball. Cover with a damp towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Divide the dough into 12-14 pieces and shape each into a ball. Roll each ball into an 8-inch circle using a rolling pin or tortilla press.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil. Place a tortilla in the skillet and cook for 30-60 seconds until bubbles appear, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds until lightly golden.
- Serve the tortillas warm or store them for later use. Keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for up to 3 months.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened (or coconut oil)
- 1 1/4 cups hot water
- Olive oil, for cooking
FAQ
- Can I use something other than butter in my tortillas?
- Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil if you prefer. It will still give the tortillas a nice texture and flavor.
- How should I store homemade flour tortillas?
- You can store the tortillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- What is the best way to cook the tortillas?
- It’s recommended to use a cast-iron skillet with a small drizzle of olive oil. Cooking with a bit of oil can result in a better texture compared to cooking without it.
- Is a tortilla press necessary for making tortillas?
- A tortilla press is not necessary, but it can make the process easier. You can also roll out the dough balls using a rolling pin.
- How long should I cook each tortilla?
- Cook each tortilla for 30-60 seconds until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds until it turns lightly golden.
Tips
- Allow the dough to rest for 10 minutes after kneading to let the gluten relax, resulting in softer tortillas.
- Roll out all the dough balls before cooking to make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
- Use a cast-iron skillet with a small drizzle of olive oil for cooking the tortillas, as this enhances the texture and flavor.
- Store any leftover tortillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months to enjoy later.
Equipment
- Tortilla Press – Though optional, a tortilla press can make rolling out the dough significantly easier.
- Cast-Iron Skillet – Ideal for cooking the tortillas to achieve the best texture and flavor.
