Corn Tortillas Recipe

If you’ve ever tasted a warm, freshly made corn tortilla, you know there’s simply nothing quite like it. Soft, pliable, and bursting with flavor, corn tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and the perfect base for an array of delicious dishes. From tacos to enchiladas, these tortillas elevate any meal, making them a must-try in your kitchen. The best part? Making them at home is incredibly simple, and you only need a few ingredients. Let’s dive into this Corn Tortillas Recipe that will have you whipping up a batch in no time!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Corn Tortillas Recipe stands out for its simplicity and authenticity. With just three main ingredients, you can create tortillas that are fresher and tastier than anything you’d find in a store. Plus, the method is straightforward, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. The result? Perfectly pliable tortillas that are ideal for wrapping around your favorite fillings, whether it’s some savory Spicy Honey Shrimp Tacos or a hearty Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Ingredient Notes

• Masa Harina: This is the cornerstone of your tortillas. It’s a special corn flour made from nixtamalized corn, which gives the tortillas their distinct flavor and texture.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavor of the tortillas. You can adjust this to taste, but don’t skip it entirely!
• Warm Water: The water helps to hydrate the masa harina and forms the dough. Make sure it’s warm, as it helps to create a soft texture.
• Oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, is used for cooking the tortillas. It adds a slight richness and ensures the tortillas don’t stick to the pan.

What’s in the Gear List

• Tortilla Press: While not essential, a tortilla press makes it easier to flatten the dough evenly.
• Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: For cooking the tortillas, a non-stick surface will help prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a bowl to mix your masa harina, salt, and water.
• Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper: To keep your tortillas from drying out while you work with the dough.

Corn Tortillas Recipe: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of masa harina and a pinch of salt. Gradually add in 1 cup of warm water, mixing with your hands until the dough comes together. It should be soft and pliable but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too wet, sprinkle in a bit more masa harina.

Step 2: Divide the Dough

Once your dough is ready, divide it into 8-12 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your tortillas to be. Roll each piece into a ball and cover them with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

Step 3: Flatten the Tortillas

If you’re using a tortilla press, place a ball of dough between two sheets of plastic wrap and press down to flatten it into a thin circle. If you don’t have a tortilla press, you can use a rolling pin to achieve the same result. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.

Step 4: Cook the Tortillas

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place one tortilla onto the skillet. Cook for about 30-45 seconds on each side, or until you see brown spots and the tortilla puffs slightly. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, adding a little oil to the skillet as needed.

Step 5: Keep Warm

As you cook the tortillas, stack them on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and pliable.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses masa harina, which is made from corn.
• Vegan: All the ingredients are plant-based, making this recipe suitable for vegans.
• Low-Carb: If you’re looking to reduce carbs, consider using smaller tortillas or serving them with low-carb fillings.
• Flavor Variations: For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cumin or chili powder into your masa harina before adding water.

Avoid These Traps

When making your Corn Tortillas Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using cold water can lead to a tough dough. Always use warm water for the best results.
• Overworking the dough can make the tortillas tough. Mix until just combined.
• Letting the tortillas sit uncovered can cause them to dry out. Keep them covered with a towel.
• Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the tortillas before they cook through. Medium to medium-high heat works best.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to save time, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to use it, let it come to room temperature before shaping the tortillas. Cooked tortillas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave.

Common Qs About Corn Tortillas Recipe

Can I use regular cornmeal instead of masa harina?

No, masa harina is specially treated corn flour that gives tortillas their unique texture and flavor. Regular cornmeal won’t yield the same results.

How can I make my tortillas more flavorful?

Consider adding herbs, spices, or even finely chopped jalapeños to the dough for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of salt or infuse your cooking oil with spices.

What can I do if my tortillas are too dry?

If your tortillas are coming out dry, ensure you’re using enough warm water in your dough and avoid overcooking them. They should be soft and pliable when done.

Can I make larger or smaller tortillas?

Absolutely! Adjust the size of the dough balls to create the tortillas to your preferred size, whether mini for appetizers or larger for burritos.

Weekend Projects

• Mexican Street Corn Salad – Pair your fresh tortillas with this vibrant salad for a flavorful meal.
• Spicy Honey Shrimp Tacos – Use your homemade tortillas to wrap around these zesty tacos for a delicious dinner.
• Experiment with different fillings, like grilled vegetables, beans, or shredded chicken, to create your signature taco.
• Invite friends over for a taco night and let everyone assemble their own creations with your homemade tortillas.

Save & Share

If you loved this Corn Tortillas Recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with friends! Homemade tortillas are a game-changer in any kitchen, and once you start making them, you may never go back to store-bought again. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Share on Pinterest