You’re about to discover how simple it is to make fluffy, delicious tortillas at home with just a few ingredients and a bit of oil. Perfect for tacos, wraps, or just snacking!
Why This Recipe Works
- Using oil in the dough ensures your tortillas are soft and pliable, perfect for folding without cracking.
- The simple ingredient list means you can whip these up anytime without a special trip to the store.
- Cooking on a hot skillet gives them those beautiful, slightly charred spots that add so much flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Skillet or griddle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and vegetable oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Tip: The water should be warm to the touch but not too hot to handle.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
Step 3: Rest the Dough
Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rest for 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
Step 4: Divide and Roll
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten into a thin, round tortilla about 6 inches in diameter. Tip: Roll from the center outwards for an even thickness.
Step 5: Cook the Tortillas
Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 30 seconds on the first side until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds. They should have light brown spots but still be soft. Tip: Keep cooked tortillas wrapped in a clean towel to stay warm and pliable.
Tips and Tricks
For the fluffiest tortillas, make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the dough. A too-cool skillet will give you tough tortillas. If you’re making these ahead of time, you can reheat them on the skillet for a few seconds on each side to bring back their softness. Experiment with different oils for subtle flavor variations; olive oil adds a nice richness.
Recipe Variations
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Herb-Infused Tortillas: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy Tortillas: Mix in a handful of shredded cheese to the dough before kneading for a cheesy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and cooking.
Why are my tortillas tough?
Tough tortillas usually result from over-kneading the dough or rolling them too thin. Make sure to knead just until the dough is smooth and roll to an even, but not too thin, thickness.
Can I freeze the cooked tortillas?
Yes, cooked tortillas freeze well. Layer them between parchment paper, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen.
Summary
This easy homemade tortilla recipe with oil yields soft, pliable tortillas perfect for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll never go back to store-bought.