Corn Tortillas

Corn Tortillas

Made from corn that has been nixtamalized, dried, and finely ground, masa harina tortilla grind is the essential ingredient behind traditional corn tortillas. This centuries-old process enhances the corn’s flavor and creates the soft, pliable dough that defines authentic tortillas. Lighter and finer than tamale grind, tortilla masa produces a delicate texture with the warm, earthy aroma of fresh corn. When pressed and cooked on a hot comal, the tortillas develop toasted speckles and a tender chew, becoming both the foundation and soul of countless Southwestern and Mexican dishes.

  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 20 min
  • Total Time: 70 min
  • Yield: 16 4-inch tortillas
  • Cuisine: New Mexican
  • Category: Snack

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Place the dry ingredients in a medium bowl and slowly add the water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together into a ball. Knead the dough several times and roll into a log-shape (like ice box cookies) about 2-inches in diameter and 8-inches long. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and let it stand for about 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat a cast iron comal, skillet or griddle over medium-high. Cut the log into 1/2-inch rounds, keeping it covered so the dough doesn't dry out. Place one of the rounds between 2 sheets of plastic wrap in a tortilla press and flatten to about 1/16-inch thick. Peel off the plastic wrap and place the tortilla in the preheated pan. Cook about 1 minute, until light brown speckles appear. Flip the tortilla and cook 30 seconds, pressing down on the tortilla with a small spatula. Repeat with the remaining rounds. As the tortillas are cooked, stack in a kitchen towel to keep warm. Serve immediately.
  3. Note: This recipe may also be made in a food processor. Place the dry ingredients in the work bowl fitted with the steel blade. While the machine is running, slowly pour the warm water through the feed tube and process until the dough forms a ball. Proceed as directed above.

Estimated Nutritional Facts per Tortilla

Calories55
Total Fat0.5g
Saturated Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Sodium70mg
Total Carbohydrate12g
Dietary Fiber1g
Total Sugars0g
Protein1g

Estimated Nutritional Facts for Entire Recipe (16 tortillas)

Calories850–900
Total Fat6–8g
Saturated Fat0–1g
Cholesterol0mg
Sodium1,200mg
Total Carbohydrates185–195g
Dietary Fiber15–20g
Total Sugars0–2g
Protein18–22g