Tortillas
Warm, soft, and flexible homemade tortillas perfect for wraps, tacos, or burritos. With a simple combination of flour, baking powder, and shortening, they offer a mild, comforting flavor that pairs well with savory fillings. Ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening until well combined.
- Add warm water gradually and knead until the dough is soft and elastic.
- If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour.
- Divide the dough into 8 to 10 balls.
- Roll each ball out with a floured rolling pin into thin circles.
- Cook each tortilla on an ungreased cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until lightly browned on both sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For softer tortillas, make sure to knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with vegetable oil or butter. Adjust the water as needed; humidity can affect the dough's consistency. Experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option or try adding spices for extra flavor. Serve your tortillas fresh for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These tortillas are versatile and can be served with a variety of fillings. Pair them with Mom'S Salsa for a fresh kick or use them to wrap ingredients for tacos or burritos. They also complement dishes like Mexican Spiced Bean Salad and can be enjoyed with dips such as Austin'S Awesome Avocado Dip or Chunky Guacamole. Enjoy your meal!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tortillas in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in a skillet or microwave briefly to regain softness. This way, they will stay pliable and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortillas contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1111mg per serving (48% 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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance. Just cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Refrigerate it if you're making it more than a few hours ahead, and let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
What type of flour is best for tortillas?
All-purpose flour is commonly used, but you can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If you prefer gluten-free tortillas, try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.
How do I know when the tortillas are done cooking?
Tortillas are done when they puff slightly and develop light brown spots on both sides. Cooking them on medium-high heat ensures they cook through without burning, so keep an eye on them to achieve the perfect texture.
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).