Introduction
Flour Tortillas are a classic, versatile staple, perfect for tacos, fajitas, or wraps. These soft, pliable tortillas, made with simple pantry ingredients, deliver warm, homemade flavors in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic platter, garnished with a sprinkle of flour or fresh cilantro, these Flour Tortillas offer a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any meal. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing tortilla that brings authentic, Mexican-inspired charm to any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Flour Tortillas:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup vegetable shortening or lard (melted)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
For Cooking:
-
Optional: Extra flour for dusting
Serving:
- Optional: Fresh cilantro, flour sprinkle
- Suggested Accompaniments: Tacos, fajitas, enchiladas
- Suggested Pairings: Guacamole, salsa
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
- Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, rolling pin, cast-iron skillet or griddle, measuring cups/spoons, clean towel
Step-by-Step Process
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted shortening or lard and mix until crumbly. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 3–5 minutes until smooth. Taste a small pinch of dough and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt for a balanced flavor.
- Rest Dough: Divide dough into 12 equal balls. Cover with a clean towel and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
- Roll Tortillas: On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin, 8-inch circle (about 1/8-inch thick).
- Cook Tortillas: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for 30–60 seconds per side until lightly golden with small brown spots. Keep warm with a towel.
- Serve: Stack tortillas on a white ceramic platter, garnish with a sprinkle of flour or fresh cilantro. Serve warm with tacos, fajitas, guacamole, or salsa.
Tips for Better Flour Tortillas
- Use warm water to help the dough come together smoothly; too hot water can kill the baking powder.
- Taste the dough before rolling to ensure a balanced, slightly salty flavor.
- Roll evenly to achieve uniform thickness for consistent cooking.
- Cook on a hot, dry skillet for soft tortillas; avoid oil to prevent crispiness.
- Use a white ceramic platter for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden tortillas and colorful garnish.
- Make ahead: Prepare dough and refrigerate up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before rolling.
- Check for doneness by looking for small brown spots; avoid overcooking to maintain softness.
- Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic platter with cilantro or a flour sprinkle for a warm, inviting look.
Variations and Customization
- Gluten-Free Flour Tortillas: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure baking powder is gluten-free; note texture may be less pliable.
- Vegan Flour Tortillas: Use vegetable shortening instead of lard.
- Whole Wheat Flour Tortillas: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Herbed Flour Tortillas: Add 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro to the dough.
- Spicy Flour Tortillas: Mix 1/4 tsp chili powder or cayenne into the dry ingredients.
- Low-Sodium Flour Tortillas: Reduce salt to 1/2 tsp.
- Butter Flour Tortillas: Replace shortening with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Smaller Tortillas: Divide dough into 16 balls for smaller, 6-inch tortillas; adjust cooking time slightly.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week; reheat on a skillet for 10–15 seconds per side.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, separated by parchment paper; thaw at room temperature and reheat.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Use for tacos, fajitas, wraps, or as a side with Mexican dishes.
- Pair with guacamole or salsa to complement the soft, warm flavor.
- Presented on a white ceramic platter with vibrant garnishes for a warm, inviting charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 12 servings (1 tortilla each):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 0% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 0% Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% Daily Value
- Iron: 8% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by brand. Moderate in sodium; try the low-sodium version. Pair with vegetables for balance.
Conclusion
This Flour Tortilla recipe offers a soft, pliable staple, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a Mexican-inspired classic. Its straightforward preparation and warm presentation make it a favorite. The tender texture and homemade flavor enhance every dish. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its versatile, comforting appeal.
Flour Tortillas Recipe: Soft and Pliable
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ⅓ cup vegetable shortening or lard melted
- 1 cup warm water
- Optional: Flour sprinkle fresh cilantro
- Suggested Pairings: Tacos guacamole
Instructions
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt; add shortening and warm water. Knead 3–5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Divide into 12 balls, rest 15–20 minutes.
- Roll into 8-inch circles.
- Cook on a hot skillet for 30–60 seconds per side.
- Serve on a white ceramic platter with flour, cilantro, tacos, and guacamole.
Notes
- Use warm water for smooth dough.
- Store at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Try gluten-free or herbed variations.
- Pair with salsa.
