Description

This recipe provides an easy guide to making warm, soft, and pliable homemade tortillas for soft tacos using simple pantry ingredients, transforming family meals and making taco nights unforgettable.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached for best texture and taste
0.5 cup + 2 Tbsp warm water
1 tsp salt
3 Tbsp shortening or lard (vegetable oil or shortening is a good alternative)
0.25 tsp baking powder (optional)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and optional baking powder. Cut in the shortening or lard with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms, feeling slightly tacky but not wet.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, feeling soft to the touch. (If it feels stiff, add 1-2 teaspoons more water; if too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour.) A stand mixer with a dough hook can be used for about 4-5 minutes.
Rest the Dough: Form the dough into a ball, place it back in the bowl, and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature; this relaxes the gluten for easier rolling and more tender tortillas.
Divide and Roll: Divide the rested dough into 12 equal balls, each approximately 1.5 oz (42g). On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a 6-7 inch (15-18cm) circle, about 1/16 inch (1.5mm) thick, aiming for consistent thinness.
Cook Tortillas: Heat a dry cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot (a drop of water should sizzle). Cook each tortilla for 30-60 seconds per side, until it puffs up and develops light brown spots, smelling faintly toasty. Avoid overcooking, which will dry out and stiffen your tortillas.

Notes

For dietary needs, use gluten-free flour (adjust water) or vegetable shortening (dairy-free/vegan). Enhance flavor with cumin, chili powder, herbs, or roasted garlic. For added fiber, swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat. Avoid over-kneading, overcooking, or inconsistent rolling (too thick/thin) to ensure tender, pliable tortillas. Store cooked tortillas covered to keep them soft.

Prep Time: 50 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Mexican Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tortilla (42 g)
Calories: 110 calories
Sugar: 0 g
Sodium: 160 mg
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg