These homemade thick flour tortillas are delightfully soft, flexible, and ideal for everything from wraps and quesadillas to tacos. Crafting them from scratch is simpler than it seems!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional for a softer texture)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter or shortening (melted)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (adjust as needed)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder until well mixed.
- Add Fat: Add the melted butter or shortening to the flour mixture. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water:
Gradually add the warm water, stirring as you go, until a smooth dough starts to form. Add more or less water depending on your flour and the humidity in your area. - Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 2-3 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 15-30 minutes, allowing the gluten to relax. - Portion the Dough:
Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions, depending on the size you prefer for each tortilla. Roll each piece into a ball. - Tortilla Roll Out: Roll each ball of dough out into a thin circle, approximately 10 to 12 inches in diameter. Roll out to about an even thickness for best results.
- **Cook the Tortillas:
Preheat a large skillet or griddle to medium-high heat. Place one tortilla in the pan and cook for 30-60 seconds on each side, lightly browning and puffed. Do the remaining dough, stack, and cover them with a cloth to keep them warm. - Store:
Wrap the cooked tortillas in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The cooked tortillas can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days or stored in a refrigerator for several more days.
Tips for Success
- Cooking Time: Do not cook them too long; it is done when a few spots are golden brown, but still soft.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding herbs, spices, or even some whole wheat flour for added flavor and texture.
- Freezing: To freeze, separate the tortillas with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
Enjoy these homemade large flour tortillas with your favorite fillings, whether savory or sweet!
