A Homemade Corn Tortilla Recipe

Knowing how to make homemade corn tortillas is the basis for many Tex-Mex specialties- tacos, tostadas and enchiladas,  as well as an accompaniment to soups.  Forget store-bought, cardboard-like tortillas! Today, we’re conjuring up fresh, fluffy, sunshine-yellow corn tortillas that will elevate your taco Tuesdays to celestial heights. This recipe is a simple symphony of masa harina, water, and a pinch of salt, but the result is pure magic. So, ditch the plastic bags and grab your aprons, because it’s time to bake a batch of homemade happiness!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
• 1 1/4 – 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

Equipment:

• Large bowl
• Mixing spoon or dough whisk
• Ziplock bag (optional)
• Tortilla press (optional)
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Cast iron skillet or griddle

Instructions:

1. Warm Up the Masa: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). This warms the masa harina and unlocks its full potential for fluffy tortillas. Place masa in oven proof bowl and warm for 10 minutes. Stir halfway through and cool completely before continuing.

2. Mix it Up: In your large bowl, combine the masa harina and salt (if using). Slowly add the warm water, starting with 1 1/4 cups. Mix with a spoon or whisk until a soft dough forms. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon more water at a time until you reach a smooth, slightly sticky consistency.

3. Get Hands-On: Time to knead! Lightly flour your hands and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a clean surface. It should become smooth and elastic. This activates the gluten and creates those satisfyingly puffy tortillas.

4. Rest and Recharge: Cover your dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the masa to hydrate and become even more pliable.

5. Tortilla Time: Now for the fun part! Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized balls. If you have a tortilla press, simply place a ball between two pieces of plastic wrap and press until flat. No press? No worries! Use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into a 5-inch disc.

6. Heat It Up: Get your cast iron skillet or griddle sizzling hot over medium heat. Add a few drops of oil or water to test if it’s ready. When it sizzles instantly, gently lay your tortilla in the pan.

7. Watch it Puff: Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown spots appear. That’s the magic happening! The tortillas will puff up beautifully, showcasing their light and airy texture.

8. Warm Welcome: Keep your tortillas warm in a clean kitchen towel as you cook the remaining batch.

9. Feast Your Eyes (and Tastebuds): Pile high with your favorite fillings and savor the taste of homemade tortillas! From savory tacos to decadent breakfast burritos, the possibilities are endless.

With this simple recipe and a little practice, you’ll be crafting perfect, light-as-air homemade corn tortillas that will transform your Tex-Mex adventures and impress your friends and family. So go forth, embrace the sunshine, and get baking!

Pro-Tip: Feeling adventurous? Add a tablespoon of finely chopped herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the dough for an extra flavor dimension.

Enjoy the fruits (or rather, tortillas) of your labor!

*AI contributed to this post