Homemade Traditional Tortillas: An Easy Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 3/4 cup of water
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
  2. Stir in water and oil.
  3. Turn onto a floured surface and knead 10-12 times, adding a little flour or water if needed to achieve a smooth dough.
  4. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  5. Divide dough into eight portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a 7-in. circle.
  6. In a nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, cook tortillas over medium heat for 1 minute on each side or until lightly browned. Keep warm.

Tools for making

  • Large bowl - Used for mixing the flour, salt, water, and oil.
  • Cooking spray - Used for coating the nonstick skillet before cooking the tortillas.
  • Nonstick skillet - Used for cooking the tortillas over medium heat.
  • Rolling pin - Used for rolling out the dough into circles.
  • Flour - Used for dusting the surface while rolling the dough and for adjusting the dough consistency if needed.

Recipe variations

  • Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour
  • Adding herbs or spices to the dough, such as garlic powder or paprika
  • Using vegetable oil or melted butter instead of olive oil
  • Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option
  • Adding finely chopped vegetables or cooked meat to the dough for a filled tortilla
  • Using flavored oils, such as chili oil or infused oils, for added flavor
  • Mixing in grated cheese or other shredded cheese varieties to the dough
  • Adding a tablespoon of honey or sugar for a slightly sweeter tortilla
  • Using alternative liquids like almond milk or coconut milk instead of water

Recipe overview

Homemade Tortillas

Nothing beats the taste of freshly made tortillas, and this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process. Made with simple ingredients like flour, salt, water, and oil, these tortillas are soft, flexible, and perfect for all your favorite Mexican dishes. The process involves kneading and resting the dough, then rolling it into circles and cooking them on a skillet until lightly browned. Expect to enjoy warm, homemade tortillas that are far superior to store-bought versions. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. However, the texture and taste of the tortillas may be slightly different.
  2. Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it? Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to make the tortillas, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.
  3. Can I freeze the tortillas? Yes, you can freeze the tortillas. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper in between each tortilla to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in a skillet before serving.
  4. Can I use a tortilla press instead of rolling them by hand? Yes, you can use a tortilla press if you have one. Place a portion of dough between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper and press it down to flatten into a round shape.
  5. Can I add other seasonings or herbs to the dough? Yes, you can customize the flavor of the tortillas by adding seasonings or herbs to the dough. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, or dried herbs like oregano or basil. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Tortillas, a staple food for many Latin American countries, have a rich history dating back thousands of years. They were first made by the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica, an area that includes parts of Mexico and Central America. These cultures, including the Mayans and Aztecs, ground corn into a meal, which was then mixed with water to form a dough. The dough was pressed flat and cooked on a hot stone to produce the first tortillas. Over time, the tortilla spread throughout the Spanish-speaking world, and today, it's used in countless dishes, from tacos to enchiladas. The humble tortilla, with its simple ingredients and preparation, is a testament to the culinary ingenuity of these ancient societies.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.