Introduction
Homemade tortillas offer a delightful way to elevate any meal, bringing fresh flavors and textures to your table. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With simple ingredients and a little technique, you can create delicious tortillas that are perfect for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 5 tablespoons lard (recommended) or vegetable shortening
– ¾ cup hot water
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to mix and knead your dough effectively.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for each tortilla is about 30 seconds per side. Overall, including preparation, the total time is around 30 minutes, yielding 12 tortillas.
Enjoy the process of making these tortillas, and savor the fantastic taste they bring to your meals. Once you’ve mastered the technique, feel free to experiment with different flavors and traditions to make them your own!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
Step 2: Cut in Lard
Add the lard (or vegetable shortening) to the bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, cut in the lard until the mixture resembles pea-sized pieces.
Step 3: Add Hot Water
Pour in the hot water and mix the ingredients together using your hands or a wooden spoon until the mixture starts to form a dough.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–10 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Form the kneaded dough into a ball.
Step 6: Let Dough Rest
Place the dough in a covered bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Divide the Dough
After resting, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball approximately the size of a golf ball.
Step 8: Flatten and Roll Out
Slightly flatten each ball of dough. On a floured surface, roll out each piece into a circle.
Step 9: Achieve a Round Shape
To create a more uniform round shape, after each roll, make a ¼ turn of the dough and roll again. Repeat this until the dough is rolled out to ⅛ inch thick.
Step 10: Preheat Skillet
Preheat a griddle, nonstick pan, or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
Step 11: Cook the Tortilla
Place one tortilla onto the hot skillet and cook until bubbly.
Step 12: Flip and Continue Cooking
Flip the tortilla and continue cooking the other side for about 30 seconds.
Step 13: Keep Warm
As you cook each tortilla, keep the already cooked ones warm while you continue to roll and cook the remaining tortillas.
Notes
Note 1: Lard vs. Vegetable Shortening
Lard is recommended for a richer flavor and texture, but vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute if desired.
Note 2: Temperature of Water
Ensure that the water is hot but not boiling, as this helps to make the dough pliable.
Note 3: Cooking Time
Be attentive while cooking, as tortillas can go from perfectly cooked to burnt quickly.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
These tortillas can be used for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas, and are best served warm.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.
Cutting in Lard
Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, incorporate the lard until the mixture resembles pea-sized pieces. This technique creates a flaky texture in the final product.
Kneading Dough
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten, which gives the dough structure.
Resting the Dough
Allow the dough to rest in a covered bowl for 10 minutes. This helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
Dividing Dough
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces before shaping them into golf ball-sized balls to maintain uniformity in size and cooking time.
Rolling Tortillas
Flatten each dough ball slightly and roll it out on a floured surface. Rotate the dough frequently to ensure even thickness and achieve a round shape.
Cooking Tortillas
Preheat your skillet or pan over medium-high heat before placing the rolled tortillas on it. Cook until bubbly, flipping once for even cooking on both sides.
Keeping Tortillas Warm
After cooking, keep the tortillas warm while rolling out and cooking the remaining pieces to maintain their pliability.
FAQ
Can I use vegetable shortening instead of lard?
Yes, vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute for lard. However, lard is recommended for a richer flavor.
Why is hot water used in the dough?
Hot water helps to dissolve the fat more effectively and makes the dough easier to work with, resulting in a softer texture in the tortillas.
How do I know when the tortillas are cooked?
Tortillas are cooked when they start to bubble and show slight browning on both sides, usually after about 30 seconds per side.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out.
What if my tortillas are cracking when I roll them out?
If the dough is cracking, it may need more kneading or resting. Ensure the dough is well-hydrated and pliable before rolling.
Conclusion
The process of making homemade tortillas using all-purpose flour, lard, and a few simple ingredients results in soft, delicious tortillas perfect for a variety of dishes. The warm, pliable texture enhances any meal, making these tortillas a versatile staple in your kitchen.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Tacos
Fill your tortillas with seasoned ground beef or chicken, topped with fresh salsa, lettuce, and cheese for a traditional taco night.
Quesadillas
Stuff tortillas with cheese, beans, and any leftover meats, then grill until the cheese melts for a quick and tasty meal.
Wraps
Use tortillas as a wrap for grilled vegetables, hummus, and spinach for a healthy lunch option.
Enchiladas
Roll tortillas around a filling of your choice, cover with enchilada sauce, and bake for a comforting dish.
Breakfast Burritos
Fill your tortillas with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and avocado for a hearty breakfast on-the-go.
Chips and Salsa
Cut tortillas into wedges, fry them until crispy, and serve with salsa or guacamole for a delightful snack.
