Authentic Mexican Tortillas Recipe

Flour: The base of the tortilla, providing structure and texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the tortillas.

Water: Helps to bind the ingredients together and create the dough.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps to make the tortillas pliable.

When rolling out the dough, make sure to use a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. If the tortillas are too thick, they may not cook evenly, so aim for a thin, even circle. Additionally, ensure your skillet is properly preheated to medium-high heat before cooking the tortillas to achieve the perfect lightly browned finish.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making the tortillas healthier.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: For those with gluten intolerance, a gluten-free flour blend can be used to achieve a similar texture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and can be easier to control when seasoning.

• water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the tortillas.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add a subtle depth of flavor to the tortillas.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a richer flavor and is a healthier fat option.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a slight sweetness and a unique flavor to the tortillas.

• Allow the tortillas to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place a sheet of parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent them from sticking together.
• Store the tortillas in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out.
• Keep the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to use the tortillas within a week. The cool temperature will help preserve their texture and flavor.
• For longer storage, freeze the tortillas. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container.
• When ready to use, thaw the tortillas in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This gradual thawing process helps maintain their quality.
• To reheat, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will restore their softness and pliability.
• If you prefer a more traditional method, reheat the tortillas directly over an open flame for a few seconds on each side. This adds a slight char and enhances their flavor.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place the tortilla directly on the skillet.
  3. Heat for about 15-30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
  4. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a damp paper towel on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Stack the tortillas on the plate, separating each with another damp paper towel.
  3. Cover the stack with one more damp paper towel.
  4. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking for warmth.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil.
  3. Place the foil-wrapped tortillas in the oven.
  4. Heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring to a boil.
  2. Place a steaming basket over the pot.
  3. Wrap the tortillas in a clean kitchen towel and place them in the steaming basket.
  4. Cover and steam for 1-2 minutes until warm and soft.

• Mixing bowl: A large container used to combine the flour and salt, and later to mix in the water and oil.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour and water to ensure the correct dough consistency.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and vegetable oil precisely.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for initially mixing the dough ingredients together before kneading.

• Rolling pin: Helps to roll each dough ball into a thin circle, ensuring even thickness for cooking.

• Skillet: A flat cooking surface, preferably cast iron, used to cook the tortillas evenly on both sides.

• Kitchen towel: Keeps the cooked tortillas warm and soft until they are ready to be served.

• Knife: Used to divide the dough into 8 equal portions.

• Flour sifter: Optional but helpful for ensuring the flour is free of lumps before mixing.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix flour and salt in advance to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: Let a stand mixer knead the dough for you, saving time and effort.

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before you start cooking to speed up the process.

Roll efficiently: Roll out all tortillas before cooking to maintain a smooth workflow.

Keep tortillas warm: Use a tortilla warmer or wrap them in a towel to keep them warm and soft.