Nothing compares to the taste and texture of homemade tortillas—soft, warm, and brushed with butter, just like Grandma used to make. These Mexican flour tortillas are simple, yet they have the perfect balance of chewy and tender texture. Whether you use them for tacos, burritos, or simply enjoy them on their own, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Tortillas:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving the tortillas their structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the tortillas puff slightly for that soft, airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (or lard), melted: Adds richness and makes the tortillas pliable and soft.
- 1 ½ cups warm water (more if needed): Brings the dough together and creates the perfect consistency.
Directions:
Step 1: Make the Tortilla Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed.
- Pour in the melted butter (or lard) and use your hands or a fork to mix until the flour mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the warm water, mixing continuously. The dough should come together and form a soft, slightly sticky ball. Adjust with a bit more water or flour if needed to get the right consistency.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 12-16 equal portions, depending on how large you want your tortillas. Roll each portion into a ball, cover them with a clean towel, and let them rest for 15-30 minutes. This rest period allows the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out.
Step 2: Cook the Tortillas
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. The pan needs to be hot enough to cook the tortillas quickly without burning.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a thin circle, about 6-8 inches in diameter. Use more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Place a rolled-out tortilla into the hot skillet. Cook for 30-45 seconds on each side, or until lightly browned and cooked through. You should see small bubbles forming as the tortilla cooks. Adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning.
- As each tortilla finishes, remove it from the skillet and keep it warm by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel or placing it in a tortilla warmer.
Step 3: Serve
- Brush each warm tortilla with a bit of melted butter before serving. The butter melts into the tortilla, giving it a deliciously rich flavor and soft texture.
Why You’ll Love These Tortillas:
- Soft and Chewy: Thanks to the butter or lard, these tortillas stay soft and pliable, perfect for wrapping around your favorite fillings.
- Simple Ingredients: With just flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and water, this recipe is easy to whip up anytime.
- Versatile: Use these tortillas for tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, burritos, or just enjoy them warm with melted butter.
Tips for the Best Tortillas:
- Resting the Dough: Letting the dough rest is key to making it easier to roll out and ensuring the tortillas are soft and tender.
- Cooking Heat: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the tortillas. If it’s too cool, the tortillas will turn out tough instead of soft and flexible.
- Keep Them Warm: To keep the tortillas soft, wrap them in a towel or place them in a tortilla warmer as soon as they come off the skillet.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Tacos: These tortillas are perfect for your favorite taco fillings, from carnitas to grilled veggies.
- As a Side: Serve warm tortillas alongside soups, stews, or chili for dipping and scooping.
- Butter and Honey: For a sweet treat, spread a little butter and honey on a warm tortilla—an old-fashioned delight!
These Grandma’s Mexican Flour Tortillas with Warm Melted Butter are comfort food at its finest. Soft, flavorful, and perfect for any meal, they’re a timeless recipe you’ll come back to again and again.