Homemade Soft Flour Tortillas
Create soft, pliable, and delicious flour tortillas right in your kitchen with this simple recipe. Perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or simply enjoying with butter, these tortillas are sure to impress your family and friends. Made from basic pantry ingredients, this recipe yields 12 tortillas that can be stored or frozen for later use. Homemade tortillas are a delightful addition to any meal, adding fresh flavor and texture that store-bought versions simply can't match.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
3 cups (sifted)
Shortening or lard
3 tablespoons (softened)
Baking powder
1 teaspoon
Salt
3/4 teaspoon
Sugar
1 pinch
Lukewarm water
1 cup
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine sifted flour, softened shortening or lard, baking powder, salt, and sugar, mixing thoroughly.
2
Gradually pour in lukewarm water, stirring with a fork or your hands until a crumbly dough forms.
3
Once the dough begins to hold together, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions, rolling each portion into a ball.
5
Cover the dough balls with a clean towel and let them rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten.
6
On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each ball out into an 8-inch circle, making sure to keep the thickness even.
7
Preheat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the rolled tortilla onto the griddle.
8
Cook for about 30 seconds or until bubbles form on the surface, then carefully flip it over.
9
Cook the second side for an additional 30 seconds or until light golden brown and puffed up. Press down gently with a clean towel or spatula to encourage puffing.
10
Remove the tortilla from the griddle and keep it warm in a tortilla warmer or wrapped in a clean cloth while you repeat with the remaining dough.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tortillas does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 12 homemade tortillas.
What are the main ingredients for these flour tortillas?
The main ingredients include all-purpose flour, shortening or lard, baking powder, salt, sugar, and lukewarm water.
How long should I knead the tortilla dough?
You should knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Do I need to let the dough rest?
Yes, letting the dough balls rest for 15 minutes is crucial to relax the gluten, making them easier to roll out.
What is the recommended size for each rolled tortilla?
Each dough ball should be rolled out into an 8-inch circle.
What temperature should I use to cook the tortillas?
Preheat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium heat for the best results.
How long does each tortilla take to cook?
Each side takes approximately 30 seconds to cook, or until light golden brown spots appear.
How do I know when it is time to flip the tortilla?
Flip the tortilla when bubbles begin to form on the surface, usually after about 30 seconds.
Can I use lard instead of shortening?
Yes, you can use either softened shortening or lard depending on your preference.
What should I do if my tortillas aren't puffing up?
You can gently press down on the tortilla with a clean towel or spatula while cooking to encourage it to puff.
How do I keep the tortillas soft after they are cooked?
Keep them warm in a tortilla warmer or wrapped in a clean cloth while you finish the rest of the batch.
Can these tortillas be frozen for later use?
Yes, these homemade tortillas can be stored or frozen for future use.
What type of flour is recommended?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of sifted all-purpose flour.
Why is lukewarm water used in the dough?
Lukewarm water helps to properly hydrate the flour and incorporate the fats without melting them too quickly.
Is there sugar in these tortillas?
The recipe includes a small pinch of sugar to enhance the flavor.
What is the purpose of baking powder in this recipe?
Baking powder acts as a leavening agent to help the tortillas puff slightly and stay soft.
Should the flour be sifted?
Yes, sifting the flour helps ensure a smooth, lump-free dough.
Can I use a cast-iron skillet?
Yes, a cast-iron skillet is excellent for cooking tortillas as it maintains steady heat.
How do I prepare the shortening or lard?
The shortening or lard should be softened before being mixed into the flour.
What is the best way to roll out the dough?
Use a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface, ensuring the thickness remains even across the circle.
What can I serve these tortillas with?
They are perfect for tacos, enchiladas, or simply enjoyed warm with butter.
How much salt is required?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
Is the dough supposed to be crumbly initially?
Yes, after adding the water and stirring, a crumbly dough will form before you begin the kneading process.
What is the texture of these tortillas compared to store-bought?
Homemade tortillas are softer, more pliable, and have a fresh flavor that store-bought versions cannot match.
How many portions should the dough be divided into?
The dough should be divided into 12 equal portions.
Should I cover the dough while it rests?
Yes, cover the dough balls with a clean towel to prevent them from drying out while they rest.
Do I need to grease the griddle?
No, tortillas are typically cooked on a dry griddle or skillet.
How long does it take to prepare the dough before cooking?
Between mixing, kneading, and resting, it takes about 25 to 30 minutes to prepare the dough for rolling.
Are these tortillas suitable for Mexican dishes?
Yes, they are ideal for Mexican-style meals like taco night.
What should the dough feel like after kneading?
After 5-7 minutes of kneading, the dough should feel smooth and elastic.