Homemade tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. These thin, unleavened flatbreads are made from simple ingredients and can be enjoyed on their own or used as a base for tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and more. In this recipe, we’ll explore the history and story behind homemade tortillas and provide detailed instructions on how to make them from scratch.

Tortillas have a long history in Mexican cuisine, dating back thousands of years. Corn, the primary ingredient in traditional tortillas, was cultivated by indigenous peoples in Mesoamerica, including the Aztecs and Mayans. These civilizations relied heavily on corn as a staple food, and tortillas became an integral part of their diet.

Originally, tortillas were made by grinding corn kernels into masa, a dough-like substance. The masa was then flattened and cooked on a hot griddle or comal. Over time, wheat flour tortillas also gained popularity, particularly in northern Mexico where wheat was more abundant.

Homemade tortillas have been passed down through generations as a way to connect with Mexican culinary heritage and showcase the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. Making tortillas from scratch allows for customization and the ability to control the ingredients used, resulting in a fresh and flavorful final product.

PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 MIN.

MAKES: 8 TORTILLAS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir in the water and olive oil until the mixture forms a rough dough. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 10-12 times, adding a little flour or water if needed to achieve a smooth and elastic dough. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
2. Divide the dough into eight equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, take one portion of the dough and roll it out into a 7-inch circle using a rolling pin. Repeat this process with the remaining portions of dough.
3. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and coat it with cooking spray. Place one rolled-out tortilla in the skillet and cook it for about 1 minute on each side or until lightly browned. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas, keeping the cooked tortillas warm by covering them with a clean kitchen towel.
4. Once all the tortillas are cooked, they are ready to be served or used in various dishes. Homemade tortillas are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a side bread, used as a wrap for tacos or burritos, or filled with your favorite ingredients for quesadillas or enchiladas.

NOTE:

• Making homemade tortillas allows you to experience the authentic flavors and textures of Mexican cuisine. The process of rolling out and cooking each tortilla gives you a sense of pride and connection to the cultural heritage associated with this beloved staple food. Enjoy the warm and fresh taste of homemade tortillas with your favorite Mexican dishes or savor them on their own as a delicious treat.