How to Prepare Flour Tortillas: A Step-by-Step Guide
Flour tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine, commonly used in dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Preparing flour tortillas at home is not only satisfying but also allows you to control the quality and ingredients. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to prepare flour tortillas from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1/2 cup of warm water
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix them together until well combined.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the warm water and vegetable oil to the well. Mix the wet ingredients together with a fork or your hands until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a little more water.
4. Cover and Rest: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the dough to relax and makes it easier to roll out.
5. Divide the Dough: After the dough has rested, divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
6. Roll Out the Tortillas: Flatten each ball with your hands and then roll it out with a rolling pin until it’s about 6 inches in diameter and thin. The tortillas should be round and even.
7. Cook the Tortillas: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds on each side. The tortilla should start to puff up and become slightly golden. Flip the tortilla halfway through cooking.
8. Stack and Keep Warm: Once the tortillas are cooked, remove them from the skillet and stack them on a plate. Cover the plate with a damp cloth to keep the tortillas warm and soft.
9. Serve: Your homemade flour tortillas are now ready to be used in your favorite Mexican dishes. Enjoy!
By following these simple steps, you can easily prepare flour tortillas at home. This homemade recipe ensures that you have fresh, delicious tortillas whenever you need them, adding a touch of homemade flavor to your favorite Mexican meals.
