Introduction
Homemade tortillas are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing fresh flavor and a soft texture that store-bought varieties simply can’t match. This easy recipe will guide you through the process of making your own tortillas using just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying with a bit of butter, these tortillas will elevate your culinary creations.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 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 for this homemade tortilla recipe takes approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to quickly get started on your tortilla-making journey.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: Each tortilla takes about 30 seconds to cook on either side.
Total Time: The entire process, including preparation and cooking, should take about 30-40 minutes.
Yield: This recipe makes roughly 12 tortillas, perfect for a family meal or gathering.
With your ingredients prepared and your time set, you’re ready to dive into creating delicious, hearty tortillas right in your own kitchen!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the lard (or vegetable shortening) to the mixture.
Step 2: Cut in the Lard
Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, cut the lard into the dry mixture until it resembles pea-sized pieces.
Step 3: Add Hot Water
Pour in the hot water and mix together using your hands or a wooden spoon until the mixture starts to come together.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the mixture to a floured surface and knead for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Form the kneaded dough into a ball.
Step 6: Rest the Dough
Place the dough ball into 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 golf ball-sized balls.
Step 8: Flatten and Roll Out
Flatten each dough ball slightly and then roll it out on a floured surface to form a circle.
Step 9: Achieve the Right Thickness
To create a consistent round shape, roll out the dough, make a 1/4 turn, roll again, and repeat this until the dough is rolled out to 1/8 inch thickness.
Step 10: Preheat Cooking Surface
Preheat a griddle, nonstick pan, or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 11: Cook the First Tortilla
Place one tortilla onto the hot skillet and cook until bubbly, approximately 30 seconds.
Step 12: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Flip the tortilla and continue cooking the other side for about 30 seconds as well.
Step 13: Keep Warm
Keep the cooked tortillas warm while you continue rolling and cooking the remaining tortillas.
Notes
Note 1: Ingredient Substitution
If lard is unavailable, vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute, but lard provides better flavor and texture.
Note 2: Cooking Temperature
Ensure the cooking surface is adequately preheated; otherwise, the tortillas may not cook evenly or develop the desired texture.
Note 3: Storing Tortillas
To keep tortillas warm, stack them and cover with a clean cloth, or store them in a tortilla warmer.
Note 4: Flexibility in Size
Feel free to adjust the size of the tortillas according to your preference, but ensure consistency in thickness for even cooking.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients for optimal texture.
Cutting in Lard
Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate lard or vegetable shortening into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles pea-sized pieces, which helps create flaky layers in the final product.
Incorporating Liquid
Add hot water to the mixture gradually. Mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon will help form a cohesive dough.
Kneading
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–10 minutes. This process develops gluten, resulting in a smooth and elastic texture.
Resting the Dough
Place the kneaded dough into a covered bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making rolling easier.
Dividing the Dough
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Rolling each piece into golf ball-sized portions helps ensure uniformity in the final tortillas.
Rolling Out the Dough
Flatten each dough ball slightly and roll it out on a floured surface, turning the dough to achieve a round shape and an even thickness of 1/8 inch.
Cooking the Tortillas
Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat, then cook each tortilla until bubbly, flipping it to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Keeping Tortillas Warm
As you cook the remaining tortillas, keep the cooked ones warm by wrapping them in a clean kitchen towel, which helps maintain their flexibility.
FAQ
Can I use vegetable shortening instead of lard?
Yes, vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute for lard, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
What is the purpose of letting the dough rest?
Resting the dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out and preventing the tortillas from becoming tough.
How do I know when the tortillas are cooked?
The tortillas are cooked when they are bubbly and lightly golden on both sides, typically taking about 30 seconds per side.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.
How can I store leftover tortillas?
Store leftover tortillas in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
The homemade tortillas made from simple ingredients are a delightful addition to any meal. Their soft texture and ability to complement numerous dishes make them an essential staple in many cuisines. Enjoying these tortillas fresh off the griddle enhances the experience, allowing for endless culinary creativity.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Tacos
Fill your tortillas with seasoned meat, beans, and fresh veggies for a classic taco meal.
Burritos
Wrap tortillas around rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of protein for a hearty burrito.
Quesadillas
Stuff tortillas with cheese and other fillings, then grill until golden and melty for a delicious quesadilla.
Wraps
Use tortillas as a base for wraps, filled with deli meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables for a quick lunch option.
Enchiladas
Roll filled tortillas in sauce and bake for a comforting casserole dish.
Breakfast Tortillas
Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats for a satisfying morning meal.
Scooping Chips
Cut the tortillas into triangles, bake until crispy, and serve as chips with salsa or guacamole.
