Authentic Mexican Tortillas Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, 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 soft and pliable.

When rolling out the dough, make sure to use a light dusting of flour on both the surface and the rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the tortillas are too thick, they may not cook evenly, so aim for a thin, even circle. Additionally, allow the cast iron skillet to heat up fully before cooking the tortillas to ensure they develop those characteristic brown spots and cook through properly.

• 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 corn flour (masa harina): For a more authentic Mexican flavor, corn flour can be used to make corn tortillas.

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

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

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

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

• Allow the tortillas to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Wrap each tortilla in a layer of parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped tortillas in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container.
• Store the tortillas in the refrigerator for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next Mexican feast.
• For longer storage, freeze the tortillas. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the tortillas to a resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness. Frozen tortillas can be stored for up to three months.
• To reheat, thaw the tortillas in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Warm the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until heated through. Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Enjoy your tortillas with your favorite fillings, whether it's grilled vegetables, savory meats, or even a sweet dessert creation.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Preheat a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Place the tortilla in the pan and heat for about 15-30 seconds on each side, or until warmed through.
  3. Wrap the reheated tortillas in a towel to keep them warm until serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a damp paper towel on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Stack the tortillas on the plate, separating each with a damp paper towel.
  3. Cover the stack with another damp paper towel.
  4. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the tortillas are warm and pliable.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil.
  3. Place the foil-wrapped tortillas in the oven and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  4. Keep the tortillas wrapped in the foil until ready to serve to maintain warmth.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring to a simmer.
  2. Place a steamer basket over the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the water.
  3. Wrap the tortillas in a clean, damp kitchen towel and place them in the steamer basket.
  4. Cover and steam for 1-2 minutes, or until the tortillas are warm and soft.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil.
  3. Place the foil-wrapped tortillas in the toaster oven and heat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
  4. Keep the tortillas wrapped in the foil until ready to serve to maintain warmth.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the flour and salt, and to mix in the water and oil until a dough forms.

• Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the 2 cups of flour and ¾ cup of water.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the ½ teaspoon of salt and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil.

• Rolling pin: Used to roll each dough ball into a thin circle.

• Cast iron skillet: A heavy-duty skillet that retains heat well, used to cook the tortillas.

• Towel: Used to keep the tortillas warm until ready to serve.

• Floured surface: A clean, flat surface dusted with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while kneading and rolling.

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

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out flour, salt, water, and vegetable oil before starting to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: Mix the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook to save time and effort.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the cast iron skillet while rolling out the dough to ensure it's ready when you are.

Roll all dough balls first: Roll all 8 dough balls into circles before cooking to maintain a smooth workflow.

Keep tortillas warm: Use a towel or a tortilla warmer to keep cooked tortillas warm and soft.