Learn the art of making masa tortillas with this easy recipe. Discover how to make masa tortillas from scratch in just a few simple steps!

How to Make Masa Tortillas – A Food with Deep Roots

In the realm of homemade foods, few things rival the simplicity  of making masa tortillas. With just two humble ingredients – masa harina (corn flour) and water – one can embark on a culinary journey deeply rooted in ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. Dating back thousands of years, masa tortillas hold a profound cultural significance, serving as a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine and a testament to the ingenuity of early cooks. This timeless recipe not only offers a taste of history but also provides a hands-on opportunity for families to connect with the traditions of the past while creating something delicious together in the present.

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What is Masa Flour?

Masa flour, also known as masa harina, is a fundamental ingredient in Mexican and Central American cuisines, prized for its versatility and distinctive flavor.

Derived from dried maize (corn) that has been treated with lime (calcium hydroxide), masa flour undergoes a process called nixtamalization, which not only softens the corn but also enhances its nutritional value by making certain nutrients more bioavailable.

This ancient technique dates back thousands of years and is credited with revolutionizing Mesoamerican cuisine. Masa flour has a fine texture and a slightly sweet, earthy taste, making it ideal for various culinary applications, from crafting traditional masa tortillas to preparing tamales, pupusas, and other beloved dishes.

How to Eat Your Masa Tortillas

We love to use masa tortillas as the base for tacos, filling them with a variety of meats, beans, vegetables, and toppings for a customizable and satisfying meal. Another popular choice is to make quesadillas by layering tortillas with cheese, vegetables, and protein, then grilling until golden and melty. Tamales, a traditional Mesoamerican dish, also feature masa dough wrapped around savory or sweet fillings, steamed to perfection for a hearty and flavorful treat. Additionally, masa tortillas can be used to make enchiladas, tostadas, and even dessert dishes like sopapillas or sweet empanadas. 

What Masa Flour Should I Use?

In our pantry we have Masienda masa flour. Masienda is known for its commitment to preserving traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients in the production of masa flour, ensuring authenticity and flavor in their products.

Which Kitchen Equipment Is Needed?

To embark on the adventure of making masa tortillas at home, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools. Aside from a mixing bowl and spoon, you’ll want a tortilla press or a heavy skillet comes in handy for flattening the dough into thin, round tortillas. Additionally, you’ll need a flat skillet or griddle for cooking the tortillas to golden perfection. Other helpful tools include measuring cups for accurately portioning ingredients and plastic wrap or parchment paper for shaping the tortillas. 

• Tortilla Press
• Taco Holders (optional)

• Masa Harina
• Water
• Tortilla Press
• Taco Holders (optional)

Step 5

Cook the Tortillas: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Carefully transfer the tortilla to the hot skillet and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, until lightly golden brown and slightly puffed. Repeat the process with the remaining portions of dough, stacking the cooked tortillas on a plate and covering them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and moist.

Step 6

Serve and Enjoy: Once all the tortillas are cooked, serve them immediately with your favorite taco fillings or Mexican dishes. I filled the masa tortillas up with cheese and beans and used a taco holder. While traditional taco holders are typically designed to hold pre-made or store-bought taco shells, some people may choose to use them for homemade masa tortillas as well. Using a taco holder can help keep the tortillas upright and stable while filling them with ingredients, making it easier to assemble and serve tacos to kids. 

Step 1

Mix the Masa Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of masa harina with 1 1/4 cups of warm water. Stir the mixture with a spoon until the dough comes together, adding more water if needed to achieve a smooth, pliable consistency.

Step 2

Knead the Dough: Once the dough is formed, transfer it to a clean work surface. Knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 3

Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into small, golf ball-sized portions, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 4

Shape the Tortillas: Take one portion of dough and roll it between your hands to form a smooth ball. Place the ball of dough between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Flatten the ball with a tortilla press or a heavy skillet until it forms a thin, round tortilla, about 1/8 inch thick.

Step 5

Cook the Tortillas: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Carefully transfer the tortilla to the hot skillet and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, until lightly golden brown and slightly puffed. Repeat the process with the remaining portions of dough, stacking the cooked tortillas on a plate and covering them with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and moist.

Step 6

Serve and Enjoy: Once all the tortillas are cooked, serve them immediately with your favorite taco fillings or Mexican dishes. I filled the masa tortillas up with cheese and beans and used a taco holder. While traditional taco holders are typically designed to hold pre-made or store-bought taco shells, some people may choose to use them for homemade masa tortillas as well. Using a taco holder can help keep the tortillas upright and stable while filling them with ingredients, making it easier to assemble and serve tacos to kids. 

How to Make Masa Tortillas with Kids and Even Toddlers

Engaging children in the process of making masa tortillas can transform a simple cooking task into a memorable and educational experience. From measuring ingredients to shaping dough, kids can participate in various steps of the tortilla-making process, fostering valuable life skills and instilling a love for cooking from a young age. As they roll out dough balls and watch them transform into perfectly round tortillas, children not only develop fine motor skills but also gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in creating something delicious from scratch. Moreover, involving kids in the kitchen provides opportunities for bonding and quality time as families work together to create tasty homemade tortillas that everyone can enjoy.