Juanita'S Flour Tortillas
Soft, warm flour tortillas with a tender texture and mild flavor, perfect for wraps, tacos, or accompaniments in Mexican-inspired meals, suitable for home cooks and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) together and work the shortening into the flour until the mixture is mealy.
- Start with 2 cups of very warm (but not hot) water.
- Gradually work small portions of water into the dry mixture until a soft dough is formed.
- Divide the dough into baseball-sized balls and let them rest for 15 minutes.
- Roll each dough ball into a round tortilla using a rolling pin, turning the tortilla over several times.
- Cook each tortilla on a hot griddle or skillet without any grease.
- Turn the tortilla when bubbles appear and puff up; remove when both sides are cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier tortilla, consider substituting half the Crisco shortening with butter or lard. If you prefer a healthier option, experiment with whole wheat flour. Be sure to roll the tortillas evenly for consistent cooking, and don’t skip letting them rest; this makes them easier to roll out. Using very warm water helps to create a soft dough, which is crucial for pliable tortillas.
Serving Suggestions
These tortillas are perfect for making tacos, enchiladas, or wraps. Serve them alongside South Of The Border Corn or with Shredded Beef for a hearty meal. You can also cut them into wedges and bake them to make Chili Tortilla Chips for a delicious snack. They are versatile and can complement various Mexican recipes or even be enjoyed with simple toppings like cheese and avocado.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tortillas in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, warm them on a dry skillet for 30 seconds on each side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Juanita'S Flour Tortillas contains roughly 1063 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 938mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fat instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute Crisco with butter, lard, or even coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Each fat will give the tortillas a unique texture and taste, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the tortillas tough. Alternatively, you can let the dough rest longer, which may help it firm up.
How do I know when the tortillas are cooked?
Tortillas are done when they have nice brown spots on both sides and puff up slightly while cooking. Keep an eye out for bubbles forming on the surface; this is a good indicator that they are ready to be flipped. Remove them from the heat when both sides are cooked through but still soft.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).