How to Make Authentic Mexican Tortillas - A Step-by-Step Guide

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and vibrant spices, and one of the staple foods in this culinary tradition is the beloved tortilla. Made from a simple yet versatile dough, tortillas can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to quesadillas and burritos. While store-bought tortillas are readily available, there is something so special about making your own homemade tortillas, especially when you follow an authentic Mexican recipe.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ¾ cup shortening or lard
  • ¾ cup hot water

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Additional Time: 1 hr
  • Total Time: 1 hr 55 mins
  • Servings: 12
  • Yield: 1 dozen

  • Combine flour, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Cut in shortening by hand, or with a pastry cutter until mixture is crumbly. If mixture looks more floury than crumbly, add one or two more tablespoons of shortening. Add about 3/4 cup hot water, or just enough to moisten.
  • Knead dough by hand or with a large fork, rubbing dough against the sides of the mixing bowl to gather any clinging dough. If dough still sticks to the side of the bowl, add a couple more tablespoons of flour until dough forms a soft round shape. For best results, cover dough with a clean dish towel, and let it rest for about an hour or so.
  • Divide dough into 12 equal-sized balls. Roll each ball on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick.
  • Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
  • Place a tortilla in the preheated pan and cook until browned and slightly puffy, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Turn tortilla over to brown on second side, about 30 seconds or a minute more; transfer to a plate. Repeat with each piece of dough. Keep cooked tortillas covered with a towel to stay warm and moist until ready to serve.
  • Nutrition

    227 cal.

    • Total Fat: 13g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Sodium: 470mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 24g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 3g
    • Calcium: 50mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 34mg