The Art of Homemade Tortillas
A Simple Step Toward a Healthier, Homemade Lifestyle
There’s something magical about homemade tortillas—their soft, warm texture, the fresh flavor, and the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in them. For moms or anyone really looking to create a healthier lifestyle for their family, making tortillas at home can be a small but impactful step toward embracing simplicity and better nutrition. Whether you’re looking to save money, make healthier choices, or simply enjoy the unbeatable taste of fresh tortillas, this post will guide you through the benefits, equipment, and tips for making your own.
Why Make Tortillas at Home?
1: you control the ingredients:
Store-bought tortillas often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy additives like hydrogenated oils. When you make them at home, you need only a few simple ingredients: flour (or masa harina for corn tortillas), water, salt, and a healthy fat like olive oil or butter. You can avoid unnecessary additives and create a cleaner, healthier meal for your family.
2: Fresher taste:
Homemade tortillas taste significantly better than most store-bought ones. There’s a unique flavor and texture in freshly made tortillas that simply can’t be replicated in mass-produced versions.
3: healthier for your family:
By making your tortillas at home, you can choose healthier flours, such as whole wheat or organic, and avoid unhealthy fats or preservatives. You can even add extra nutrients like flaxseed meal or chia seeds for an added boost.
4: cost-effective:
Tortillas are surprisingly inexpensive to make. A basic batch costs just a fraction of what you’d spend on store-bought options, especially if you regularly use tortillas in your meals.
5: a step toward simplicity:
For families embracing a more homemade, intentional lifestyle, making tortillas is a rewarding way to slow down and enjoy the process of creating nourishing food for loved ones.
What You Need to Make Tortillas at Home
One of the best parts about making tortillas is how little equipment you need:
- Mixing Bowl: A simple bowl for combining your ingredients.
- Rolling Pin or Tortilla Press: A rolling pin works perfectly, but a tortilla press is a great investment for consistent, evenly shaped tortillas.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Griddle: A heavy, nonstick surface like a cast iron pan ensures even cooking and a slight char for that authentic flavor.
- Measuring Cups: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Kitchen Towel: To keep cooked tortillas warm and soft.
That’s it! The process is straightforward, and cleanup is minimal.
The Health Benefits of Homemade vs. Store-Bought
When you make tortillas from scratch, you know exactly what goes into them. No hidden sugars, unhealthy fats, or preservatives. This is especially important for moms who prioritize their family’s health. Here are a few health benefits:
- Fewer Chemicals: Homemade tortillas are free from additives like calcium propionate or mono- and diglycerides, which are often found in store-bought brands.
- Whole Grains: Using whole wheat or gluten-free flours offers more fiber and nutrients compared to processed white flour options.
- No Trans Fats: Many commercial tortillas contain trans fats, which are linked to heart disease. By making your own, you can choose healthy fats like olive oil, butter, or coconut oil.
Cost Comparison: Homemade vs. Store-Bought
A pack of tortillas at the store can cost $3–$6, depending on the brand and type. Making your own tortillas, however, can cost as little as $0.50 for a batch of 10–12. That’s a significant saving over time, especially for larger families who use tortillas regularly.
Tips for Success
- Use Warm Water: Warm water helps create a smooth, pliable dough, making the tortillas easier to roll out.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Letting your dough rest for 20–30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making the tortillas softer and more elastic.
- Cook Quickly: Tortillas cook in about 30 seconds per side. Watch closely to avoid overcooking, which can make them dry.
- Keep Them Covered: Place cooked tortillas in a clean kitchen towel or tortilla warmer to retain heat and moisture.
Thanks to Becky from Acre Homestead and Scratch Pantry I found a wonderfully easy recipe that is sure to be a family favorite for you just as it has been for our family! I have tried many different versions while they are all similar- Becky’s is my favorite!
These are perfectly soft and delicious to eat alone, yummy tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas etc..
Seriously easy & perfect!
Fun Variations to Try
Homemade tortillas don’t have to be plain! Here are some creative twists:
- Spinach Tortillas: Blend spinach into the dough for a vibrant green color and extra nutrients.
- Herb-Infused Tortillas: Add dried herbs like oregano or rosemary for a flavorful twist.
- Sweet Tortillas: Incorporate cinnamon and a touch of sugar for dessert-style tortillas.
A Perfect Fit for a Homemade Lifestyle
In a world where so much food is processed and prepackaged, taking the time to make tortillas from scratch can feel grounding and empowering. It’s a small way to connect with the food you’re feeding your family and to ensure they’re getting the best possible nutrition. Plus, it’s fun! Kids can join in by rolling out the dough or pressing tortillas, turning it into a family activity.
Use Tortillas in Everyday Meals
Tortillas are incredibly versatile. Use them for:
- Tacos
- Quesadillas
- Wraps for sandwiches or breakfast burritos
- Flatbread pizzas
- Chips (cut, bake, or fry them for a crunchy snack!)
Homemade Tortillas: A Tradition Worth Starting
Making tortillas at home is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. It’s the joy of crafting something with your own hands, knowing it’s healthier, tastier, and better for your family. Whether you’re building a taco night tradition or simply looking to save money while eating clean, homemade tortillas are a simple yet impactful way to embrace a homemade lifestyle.
So, grab your rolling pin, warm up your skillet, and start creating delicious, wholesome tortillas that your family will love!
What’s your favorite way to use homemade tortillas?
**This post may contain affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no extra cost to you**
Soft Flour Tortilla’s
Ingredients
- 3 cups flour we typically use Kamut or Einkorn
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water I have substituted for milk as well
- ⅓ cup neutral flavor oil we use butter
Instructions
- In a medium bowl combine flour, salt, and baking powder
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add oil (butter) and water (milk) store until a shaggy ball of dough forms
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and knead until the dough is nice and smooth, about 5 mins. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 20mins to 2hrs.
- Divide the dough into 16 equals portions. Turn each piece to coat with flour. Form each piece of dough into a ball and flatten with the palm of your hand. Cover your dough.
- Heat a large skillet on medium heat
- Use a light amount of flour & tortilla press/rolling pin to roll each dough piece into a rough circle about 6-7 inches. Don’t stack uncooked tortillas they will stick to each other!
- When the skillet is hot, place one tortilla in the hot skillet and cook for 45 seconds to a min! Should be light brown spots & starting to bubble! Flip and do the same to the other side!
- Remove the cooked tortillas & place in a covered container—this will keep them nice and soft.
- Enjoy them warm or allow them to cool and store in an air tight container!