How To Make Bacon Fat Tortillas with Andrew Zimmern

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup Bacon Fat (rendered, cooled but still liquid)
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (helps the tortilla puff slightly)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (fine sea salt)
• 4 stalks Scallions (white and green parts, finely chopped)
• 0.75 cup Water (cold water)
• 1 tablespoon Extra Bacon Fat (for brushing cooked tortillas (optional))

Instructions

1. Render the Bacon Fat

   If you haven't saved bacon fat already, cook about 8‑10 slices of bacon over medium heat until the fat is fully rendered, then strain through a fine mesh sieve into a heat‑proof container. Let it cool slightly but stay liquid.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: medium heat

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

   In a large mixing bowl whisk together the all‑purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.

   Time: PT3M

3. Add Scallions

   Stir the finely chopped scallions into the dry mixture, distributing them throughout.

   Time: PT2M

4. Incorporate Bacon Fat

   Pour the warm (not hot) bacon fat into the flour mixture. Using your hands, rub the fat into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   Time: PT5M

5. Add Water and Knead

   Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, while continuing to knead with your hands. Stop adding water once the dough comes together into a smooth, slightly tacky ball.

   Time: PT5M

6. Rest the Dough

   Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 20 minutes at room temperature.

   Time: PT20M

7. Divide and Shape

   Turn the rested dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 8 equal portions, roll each into a ball, then flatten with a rolling pin into 6‑8‑inch circles.

   Time: PT8M

8. Heat the Skillet

   Place a skillet over medium‑high heat and let it become hot (about 350°F).

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: 350°F

9. Cook the Tortillas

   Place one tortilla in the skillet. Cook 1‑2 minutes until bubbles form and the underside is lightly golden, then flip and cook another 1‑2 minutes. Remove and keep warm. Repeat with remaining tortillas, brushing each with a little extra bacon fat if desired.

   Time: PT15M

   Temperature: 350°F

10. Serve

    Serve the warm tortillas with crispy fried chicken skin, as tacos, or with your favorite toppings.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

200

Protein

4g

Carbohydrates

20g

Fat

12g

Fiber

1g