Homemade soft tortillas are an excellent addition to any meal. Their warm, fluffy texture and versatile flavor make them perfect for tacos, wraps, burritos, and more. By making them from scratch, you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options. These soft tortillas are simple to prepare and are an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys homemade bread. Once you try them, you’ll never want to go back to the packaged versions!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make about 8 soft tortillas:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 grams): This flour forms the base of the tortilla dough, providing structure and texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the tortillas.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Makes the tortillas puff up and adds to their soft texture.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup hot water (130 milliliters): The hot water helps soften the dough and makes it easier to knead.
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (50 grams): Adds moisture to the dough, helping keep the tortillas soft and pliable.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking powder. Stir to combine.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the ½ cup of hot water and ¼ cup of vegetable oil. Stir the ingredients together until combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Use your hands to knead the dough for 3-5 minutes. The dough should be soft, smooth, and slightly elastic. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water. Kneading helps the flour absorb the liquid better and makes the tortillas soft.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes (for a quick result) or 30 minutes (for the best texture). Resting the dough makes it easier to roll out and gives you softer tortillas.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into a log and cut it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball. Cover the balls with a cloth to keep them from drying out while you work.
Step 6: Roll Out the Tortillas
On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball of dough into a thin circle about 6-8 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly round!
Step 7: Cook the Tortillas
Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once hot, cook each tortilla for 30-60 seconds on each side, or until golden brown spots appear and the tortilla puffs up. Flip the tortilla when you see bubbles forming on the surface.
Step 8: Keep Tortillas Soft
Once cooked, place the tortilla on a clean towel and cover it to keep it soft and warm. Repeat this process with the remaining dough.
Serving Suggestions
These homemade tortillas are versatile and can be used for various dishes. Here are some ways to serve them:
- Tacos: Fill them with ground beef, chicken, or veggies.
- Wraps: Use them to make wraps with your favorite fillings, such as grilled chicken, veggies, or hummus.
- Burritos: Wrap them around rice, beans, and your favorite protein.
- Side Dish: Serve them with butter or alongside soups and stews.
- Grilled Meats and Vegetables: Serve them as a side dish with grilled meats, or pair them with guacamole and salsa for a simple snack.
Cooking Tips
- Use Hot Water: Hot water helps create a softer dough. It allows the flour to absorb the liquid better and makes the tortillas more pliable.
- Don’t Skip Resting the Dough: Letting the dough rest helps it become more elastic and easier to roll out. It’s a critical step in getting soft tortillas.
- Cook on High Heat: Cooking on high heat allows the tortillas to puff up quickly and form golden brown spots without becoming too dry.
- Cover the Tortillas: After cooking each tortilla, cover them with a cloth to keep them soft and warm.
Nutritional Benefits
These homemade tortillas are made from simple ingredients, ensuring they are free from preservatives. Here are some of their nutritional benefits:
- Carbohydrates: A great source of energy.
- Healthy Fats: The vegetable oil provides healthy fats that help keep the tortillas soft.
- No Preservatives: Since you’re making them at home, you know exactly what goes into your tortillas.
Dietary Information
- Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.
- Dairy-Free and Egg-Free: There are no dairy or egg products in this recipe, so it’s safe for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option. However, whole wheat flour can make the tortillas a bit denser. You may need to add slightly more water to achieve the same dough consistency.
2. Can I freeze the tortillas?
Yes, you can freeze homemade tortillas. Allow them to cool completely, then stack them with a layer of parchment paper between each tortilla. Place them in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave.
3. My tortillas are too thick; what did I do wrong?
If your tortillas are too thick, it’s likely that you didn’t roll them out thin enough. Be sure to roll the dough balls as thin as possible without tearing the dough.
4. How can I keep the tortillas soft?
To keep the tortillas soft, cover them with a clean towel immediately after cooking. This helps trap moisture and prevents them from drying out.
5. Can I make these tortillas gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these tortillas gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the flour you choose works well in baking.
6. Can I use oil other than vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use other oils, such as olive oil or coconut oil, for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the taste of the oil may affect the overall flavor of the tortillas.
Conclusion
Making your own homemade soft tortillas is a simple and rewarding process that results in fresh, fluffy tortillas that are perfect for tacos, wraps, burritos, or as a side dish. The recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and requires minimal cooking time. Once you try them, you’ll appreciate the difference in taste and texture compared to store-bought versions. Whether you’re using them for a casual meal with family or meal prepping for the week, these tortillas will add a special touch to any dish. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade tortillas that are free from preservatives and filled with love!