Flour Tortillas Recipe

All-purpose flour: The main ingredient that provides structure to the tortillas.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the tortillas.

Warm water: Helps to bring the dough together and makes it easier to knead.

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

When kneading the dough, make sure to use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself. This helps develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a more elastic and pliable tortilla. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour on the surface and your hands to prevent sticking. Conversely, if the dough is too dry, wet your hands slightly and continue kneading until the desired consistency is achieved.

• 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 similar results.

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

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Using milk instead of water can result in a richer and softer tortilla.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a distinct flavor and is considered a healthier fat option.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can give a slight coconut flavor and is a good alternative for those avoiding vegetable oils.

• 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 keeps them from drying out.
• For short-term storage, keep the tortillas in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• 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.
• 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.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the tortilla in the skillet and warm for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable and warm. This method helps retain the tortilla's original texture and flavor.

• Microwave Method: Wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. The steam from the damp towel will keep the tortillas soft and prevent them from drying out.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap a stack of tortillas in aluminum foil and place them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This method is great for reheating multiple tortillas at once while keeping them warm and soft.

• Steaming Method: Place a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Wrap the tortillas in a clean kitchen towel and place them in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for about 1-2 minutes. This method ensures the tortillas stay moist and flexible.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and place them in the toaster oven for about 5-7 minutes. This is a quick and efficient way to reheat a small batch of tortillas.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the tortillas directly on the grill grates for about 15-20 seconds on each side. This method adds a slight smoky flavor and a bit of char to the tortillas, enhancing their taste.

• Large bowl: Used to combine the flour and salt, and to mix in the water and oil to form the dough.

• Floured surface: Necessary for kneading the dough and rolling it out into circles without sticking.

• Rolling pin: Helps to roll each portion of dough into a 7-inch circle.

• Large skillet: Used to cook the tortillas over medium heat until they are lightly browned.

• Spatula: Useful for flipping the tortillas in the skillet to ensure even cooking on both sides.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out flour, salt, water, and vegetable oil before starting to save time.

Use a stand mixer: If you have one, use it to combine and knead the dough quickly and efficiently.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating your skillet while you roll out the tortillas to save time.

Roll and cook simultaneously: Have one person roll out the dough while another cooks the tortillas to speed up the process.