Here’s a vivid and detailed description along with a step by step procedure for making homemade tortilla bread soft, warm, and slightly chewy, perfect for wrapping or scooping.
Homemade Tortilla Bread Recipe
Description:
Tortilla bread is a round, thin flatbread that’s soft and pliable, ideal for burritos, wraps, tacos, or simply eaten warm with butter. As you make it, the smell of toasty flour and the warmth of the pan will fill your kitchen. When done right, the tortillas puff slightly and get beautifully golden brown spots. The finished product is tender, slightly chewy, and folds without cracking.
Ingredients (Makes about 8 tortillas)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup warm water
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3 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted lard (traditional)
Tools
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Large mixing bowl
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Rolling pin
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Cast iron skillet or nonstick frying pan
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Clean kitchen towel
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Measuring cups and spoons
Procedure
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the salt.
2. Add Liquid and Fat
Pour in the warm water and oil (or lard). Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until it forms a shaggy dough.
Tip: Warm water helps hydrate the flour and soften the dough, making it easier to knead.
3. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5–8 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and only slightly tacky.
You’re developing gluten here this will give the tortillas strength and stretch.
4. Let It Rest
Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rest for 20–30 minutes.
This rest allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
5. Divide and Shape
Divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Roll each between your palms until smooth.
6. Roll the Tortillas
On a floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle about 6–8 inches wide. Try to make them as thin as possible without tearing.
Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round rustic shapes have charm!
7. Cook the Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat until hot. Lay one tortilla in the pan. Cook for about 30–45 seconds on each side until:
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Bubbles form
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Brown spots appear
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The tortilla puffs slightly
Flip and cook the other side. Repeat with remaining dough.
8. Keep Warm
Place cooked tortillas in a towel-lined container or wrap in foil to keep warm and soft.
Notes
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For extra-soft tortillas, brush lightly with melted butter while warm.
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To store, keep in a ziplock bag in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat on a skillet or in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.
