Homemade Flour Tortillas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 cup of vegetable shortening
• 1 cup of warm water

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

1. Incorporate Vegetable Shortening:

• Add the vegetable shortening to the dry ingredients. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

1. Add Warm Water:

• Gradually add the warm water to the mixture, stirring continuously until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and pliable but not sticky.

1. Rest the Dough:

• Place the dough inside a Ziploc bag and let it rest for at least 1 hour. This resting period is crucial for the dough to relax and make the tortillas easier to roll out.

1. Form and Cook Tortillas:

• After the dough has rested, divide it into small, even-sized balls.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin circle.
• Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until bubbles form and the tortilla is lightly browned.

Tips and Variations:

• Thickness: For thicker tortillas, roll the dough balls slightly less. For thinner tortillas, roll them out more.
• Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to the dry ingredients for flavored tortillas.
• Oil Substitute: You can substitute the vegetable shortening with lard or butter for a different flavor and texture.
• Consistency: If the dough is too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.

How to Store:

• At Room Temperature: Store the cooked tortillas in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Freeze: To freeze tortillas, place parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent them from sticking. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.

FAQs:

1. Why do my tortillas come out hard?

• If your tortillas are hard, it might be due to overcooking or not enough water in the dough. Ensure you’re cooking them just until bubbles form and they are lightly browned.

2. Can I use butter instead of vegetable shortening?

• Yes, you can substitute butter for vegetable shortening. This will change the flavor and texture slightly, but they will still be delicious.

3. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

• If your dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

4. How can I make my tortillas softer?

• To make your tortillas softer, ensure the dough is well-hydrated and let it rest properly. Also, avoid overcooking them on the griddle.

Enjoy Your Homemade Flour Tortillas!

Making your own tortillas at home is a rewarding experience that results in delicious, fresh tortillas perfect for any meal. With these tips and instructions, you’ll be able to create tortillas that are sure to impress. Enjoy!