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Homemade Flour Tortillas

Recipe by Cooking Con Claudia

Learn how to make soft, pliable flour tortillas from scratch with just a few pantry staples. This step‑by‑step guide from Cooking Con Claudia walks you through mixing the dough, resting, rolling, and cooking each tortilla to perfection.

EasyMexicanServes 12

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Source Video
47m
Prep
5m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 2m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$1.85
Total cost
$0.15
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Incorporate shortening until mixture feels like sand
  • Add hot water slowly to form sticky dough
  • Knead until dough is smooth and elastic
  • Rest dough for 20 minutes
  • Roll tortillas thin enough to see through
  • Cook until surface blisters then flip quickly

Safety Warnings

  • Hot water can cause burns – pour slowly and avoid splashing
  • The comal/skillet becomes very hot – use oven mitts when handling
  • Rolling pin can slip – keep hands steady

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of flour tortillas in Mexican cuisine?

A

Flour tortillas originated in northern Mexico where wheat was more abundant than corn. They became a staple for dishes like burritos, fajitas, and quesadillas, reflecting the region’s Spanish influence and the adaptation of wheat flour into traditional Mexican cooking.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of flour tortillas in Mexican cuisine?

A

In northern Mexico, flour tortillas are larger and softer, often used for burritos. In Tex‑Mex cuisine they are thinner and crispier for tacos. Some regions add a pinch of lard for richer flavor, while others use only shortening for a lighter texture.

cultural
Q

How are flour tortillas traditionally served in Mexican households?

A

They are typically served warm, stacked under a clean kitchen towel to stay soft, and used to wrap meats, beans, cheese, or vegetables. Fresh tortillas are a daily accompaniment to meals and are also enjoyed plain with butter or salsa.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations are flour tortillas commonly used in Mexican culture?

A

Flour tortillas are everyday staples but also feature in festive gatherings like family barbecues, taco nights, and celebrations where dishes such as burritos, fajitas, and quesadillas are served.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with homemade flour tortillas?

A

Homemade flour tortillas pair perfectly with carne asada, grilled chicken, refried beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and cheese for classic tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making flour tortillas at home?

A

Common errors include over‑mixing the dough, not letting it rest, rolling the tortillas too thick, and cooking on a skillet that isn’t hot enough. Each mistake can lead to tough or crumbly tortillas.

technical
Q

Why does this flour tortilla recipe use hot water instead of cold water?

A

Hot water helps activate the gluten quickly, creating a softer, more pliable dough that rolls out thinly without tearing, which is essential for the characteristic tender texture of flour tortillas.

technical
Q

Can I make the flour tortilla dough ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can refrigerate the rested dough, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before dividing and rolling, and add a few extra drops of water if it feels stiff.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when my tortillas are done cooking?

A

A finished tortilla should have light brown spots, visible bubbles, and a slightly blistered surface. It should be soft, flexible, and able to fold without cracking.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cooking Con Claudia specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Cooking Con Claudia focuses on easy, home‑cooked recipes that emphasize classic techniques, comfort food, and step‑by‑step tutorials for beginner and intermediate cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Cooking Con Claudia's approach to Mexican cooking differ from other Mexican cooking channels?

A

Cooking Con Claudia emphasizes simplicity and accessibility, using everyday pantry ingredients and minimal equipment, whereas many Mexican cooking channels often showcase more elaborate, restaurant‑style preparations.

channel

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