How to make tortillas

If you’re after an authentic Mexican recipe, then here’s how to make tortillas from just two ingredients – corn flour and warm water. These simple Mexican dinner staples are much easier to make than you might think. Here Mexican chef Elias Silva Resinas from London restaurant Ella Canta explains how to whip easy tortillas up in minutes. The name for the type of Mexican corn flour you’re looking for is masa, which you can find in a lot of the international aisles of supermarkets now. When you’re learning how to make tortillas the important thing is figuring out what texture the dough should be. If the dough begins to crumble then you need a little more water, and if it’s sticky or gluey then add a bit more flour – you want a perfect in-the-middle texture. This recipe makes enough for 60 small taco-size tortillas, so it's perfect for a party!

Ingredients

  • 1kg corn flour
  • 750ml warm water

You will need

  • A tortilla press

Step 1

How to make tortillas

Put the masa in a big bowl and start adding a little bit of water at a time, while you mix it with your hands.

Step 2

How to make tortillas

You are looking to get a soft but firm dough, so depending on the flour this might take a little more or less water.

Step 3

How to make tortillas

Make small balls of 15gr and place them in a bowl covered with a wet towel on top so they don’t get dry.

Step 4

How to make tortillas

Place a pan on medium high heat to cook the tortillas in after you've pressed them. Line each side of the tortilla press with two circles of plastic or Clingfilm. Place one ball on the tortilla press, and press gently to make the tortillas. Flip and press again until they are thin and smooth. If you don’t have a tortilla press you can roll each dough ball out with a rolling pin. Cut into a circle with a cookie cutter.

Step 5

How to make tortillas

Take the tortilla with your hand and carefully place it in the hot pan, after 20 seconds flip the tortilla to cook the other side. Leave for another 20 seconds.

Step 6

How to make tortillas

Remove from the pan once slightly golden on each side.

Step 7

How to make tortillas

Once the tortillas are cooked take them out and place under a tea towel to keep them warm, until you’re ready to serve.

Step 8

How to make tortillas

Top with your chosen fillings and enjoy!

Step 8

How to make tortillas

Top with your chosen fillings and enjoy!