Flour Tortilla Recipe

Name: Flour Tortilla Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening; 3/4 cup warm water

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your meals, homemade flour tortillas are a must-try! Soft, warm, and incredibly versatile, these tortillas can be used for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoyed with butter. Making them from scratch is easier than you might think, and once you taste the difference, you’ll never go back to store-bought. Follow this simple recipe to create delicious flour tortillas that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening
3/4 cup warm water

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 8 tortillas. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 tortilla) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 3g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one tortilla.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and baking powder together.
Add the vegetable oil or shortening, and mix until crumbly.
Gradually add warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
Roll out each ball on a floured surface until thin and round.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute on each side until lightly browned.
Keep cooked tortillas warm in a towel until serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil for added flavor.

Serving and Pairings

These flour tortillas are perfect for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. They can also be enjoyed with dips like guacamole or salsa for a delightful appetizer.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover tortillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on a skillet or in a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

Cooking Mistakes

Not resting the dough can lead to tough tortillas.
Rolling the dough too thick will result in chewy tortillas.
Overcooking can make them dry; keep an eye on them while cooking.
Using cold water can affect the dough’s texture.
Not covering cooked tortillas may cause them to dry out.

Helpful Tips

Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking.
Try adding herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
Keep tortillas warm in a towel until serving.
Experiment with different flours for unique textures.

FAQs

How do I know when my tortilla dough is ready?

The dough should be smooth and elastic, not sticky. Knead until it reaches this consistency, about 5 minutes.

Can I make these tortillas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking.

What can I use if I don’t have a rolling pin?

You can use a wine bottle or any cylindrical object to roll out the dough.

How can I make gluten-free tortillas?

Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, and adjust the liquid as needed.

Can I freeze the tortillas?

Yes, you can freeze cooked tortillas. Place parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Making your own flour tortillas is not only rewarding but also a great way to enhance your meals. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create soft, fluffy tortillas that will take your dishes to the next level. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and uses, and share your homemade creations with family and friends!