Making Tortillas

I had the priviledge of learning how to make homemade tortillas from a "Pro", Irene, the mother of my friend and neighbor, Kathy.  Irene graciously agreed to demonstrate for us how to make her authentic home-style flour tortillas. 

First, you start with a beautiful golden yellow bowl.  I suppose you can use a red or blue bowl, but I won't guarantee the results.  Next, in goes about 1 1/2 c of all purpose flour, 1/2 T baking powder, 1/2 t salt. Mix together and add about 1/2 -3/4 c warm water. You might need a little more. Everything is pretty much done by 'feel' so if that's a problem for you, you might need some therapy until that's okay. Throw in a lump of shortening---about 2 T and blend with your hands until a soft but firm ball is formed.

Preheat a cast iron griddle or skillet and lightly grease it. 

While the griddle is heating, make small balls of dough and set them aside. You should end up with about 6 balls.  Irene placed them on a paper towel while they were waiting to be rolled out. 

Next, take one of the balls and place it on a floured board or smooth countertop. We're ready to roll!

Irene used a small wooded dowel to roll out her tortillas. (I used my rolling pin at home---it's a bit on the 'over-kill' side, but it works.)

Flip the tortilla over and roll it again. You want to get it nice and thin and if you practice, YOU CAN DO IT!! That's what Irene told us.

Here is where things get tricky.  Place the tortilla on the skillet and IMMEDIATELY flip it (the tortilla, not the pan). Let it sit until brown spots form on the bottom, flip again, and remove when both sides look like the tortillas in the picture below. Stack in a pile to keep them warm. Repeat with the remaining balls of dough. 

That's it. These tortillas are SO yummy with melted butter dripping off them and running down your arm.  You can just taste the love. Add a little cinnamon sugar or beans and cheese and you'll be smiling from ear to ear! 

Go ahead and give it a try---You Can Do It!!