Name: Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups white whole wheat flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt; 6 tablespoons canola oil; 1 cup hot water

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When I think of comfort food, Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas immediately springs to mind. Growing up, my family would gather in the kitchen, flour dusting the air, as we rolled out soft dough into perfect circles. These tortillas became the canvas for our favorite fillings, each bite infused with love and laughter. I remember those Saturdays, the sun streaming through the window, the tantalizing smell of fresh tortillas cooking on the griddle. Now, every time I make these, it’s like a warm hug from the past, connecting generations through simple, wholesome ingredients. Using whole grain flour adds an earthy flavor that elevates every dish we create. Whether stuffed with savory beans or simply slathered with butter, these tortillas never fail to delight.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
130 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Vegan

Fat:
4g g

Tools Used:
Skillet

Why This Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas Shines

Wholesome Ingredients

The beauty of Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delicious base for any meal. The use of whole wheat flour not only adds nutrition but also provides a hearty texture that holds up well to various fillings. Canola oil ensures the tortillas remain soft and pliable, making them easy to fold and stuff. The baking powder gives them just the right amount of lift, while the water brings it all together into a dough that’s satisfying to work with. These wholesome ingredients make every tortilla a nourishment-packed delight.

A Family Tradition

Making Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas is not just a recipe; it’s a cherished family tradition. I remember standing on a stool next to my grandmother as she expertly rolled the dough. She taught me the art of kneading, how to feel for the right consistency, and how to roll them out just right. Every time I pull out my rolling pin, memories flood back, reminding me of the love and laughter shared in the kitchen. This recipe is about more than just food; it’s about creating lasting memories with those we love.

Versatile Uses

These tortillas are incredibly versatile. Not only can they be used for classic tacos and burritos, but they also serve as a fantastic base for quesadillas or even as a side with soups and salads. I love whipping up a batch to accompany my favorite chili or to serve at a gathering. They are equally delightful stuffed with fresh veggies and grilled chicken for a quick lunch. The options are endless, and that’s what makes Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas a staple in my kitchen.

Health Benefits

Using whole grain flour brings numerous health benefits to the table. It’s packed with fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. Additionally, whole grains provide a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals that are often stripped away in refined flours. Making your tortillas means you can control the ingredients and avoid additives or preservatives. This way, you’re serving your family not just a meal, but a wholesome experience.

Simple and Satisfying

The process of making Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas is straightforward and satisfying. It’s an activity that brings people together, whether you’re cooking with family or sharing the finished product with friends. As you roll and shape each tortilla, you can feel the connection to your food and the joy it brings. Plus, knowing that you made them from scratch adds an extra layer of satisfaction. Everyone will appreciate the effort once they take their first bite!

What to Buy for Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas

Creating the perfect Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas starts with quality ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in achieving that soft, pliable texture we all love. The key players here are whole wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and canola oil, combined with hot water to bring it all together. These ingredients not only ensure a delicious outcome but also contribute to the nutritional value of your meal.

3 cups white whole wheat flour: This flour gives the tortillas their heartiness and a rich, nutty flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the tortillas rise slightly, making them light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.

6 tablespoons canola oil: Keeps the tortillas soft and pliable, preventing them from cracking.
1 cup hot water: Essential for bringing the dough together and creating the right consistency.

Step by Step Instructions for Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas

Making Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas is a fun and rewarding process. Here’s how to create these delicious, soft tortillas step by step. Follow along and soon you’ll have a stack of warm tortillas ready for your favorite fillings.

In a medium bowl, combine white whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly so that the baking powder is evenly distributed.
Pour in the canola oil and work it into the flour mixture with your hands until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial to achieving a tender texture.
Gradually add hot water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be moist but not sticky. Adjust water as necessary to achieve the right consistency.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want to develop elasticity without overworking the dough. It should feel smooth and soft.
Place the kneaded dough in a bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out.
After resting, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface again. Divide it into 20 equal portions, shaping each into a ball. The size can be adjusted based on how big you want your tortillas.

Roll each ball between your palms until smooth. This step ensures even cooking and a nice round shape.
Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball on a floured surface. Rotate it 45 degrees and keep rolling until you achieve an 8-inch circle. Aim for a thinness that allows them to cook quickly without tearing.
Preheat a dry skillet or griddle to medium-high heat. The skillet should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles upon contact.

Carefully place the rolled tortilla in the skillet. Cook for about 45 seconds or until air bubbles form on the surface. Flip it over and cook for another 45 seconds. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain soft and pliable.

Things Worth Knowing

Storage: Once cooled, keep your tortillas wrapped in a clean towel or store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Freezing: For long-term storage, layer parchment paper between each tortilla and place them in a ziplock freezer bag. This makes it easy to pull out just what you need.

Cooking Tips: Avoid overcooking; the tortillas should be soft enough to fold. If they become too crispy, they will crack.
Cooking Surface: A cast iron skillet works wonders for even cooking and adds a delightful texture.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basics of Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas, there are plenty of exciting variations to explore. Here are some tips to enhance your tortilla-making adventure.

Add Herbs: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or cilantro into the dough for an extra flavor boost.
Spice It Up: Add spices such as cumin or chili powder to the flour mixture for a kick.
Use Different Oils: Experiment with olive oil or avocado oil for a unique taste.

Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs.
Stuff It: Try stuffing tortillas with cheese, beans, and vegetables before cooking for a savory treat.
Flavor Infusion: Infuse the water with herbs or spices for a subtle flavor in the dough.

Stuffed Tortillas: Use these tortillas as wraps for salads or grilled veggies for a healthy lunch.

Perfect Pairings for Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas

Serving Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas is where the fun truly begins. They complement a variety of dishes and occasions beautifully. Here are some delicious pairings and serving suggestions.

With Tacos: Fill your tortillas with grilled vegetables, beans, or chicken for a satisfying meal.

For Breakfast: Serve them alongside scrambled eggs and salsa for a satisfying breakfast wrap.
As a Side Dish: Pair with soups like chili or tortilla soup for a hearty lunch.
For Dips: Use them as a base for homemade chips. Just cut them into triangles, bake, and serve with salsa.

For Special Occasions: Impress guests at gatherings by serving a taco bar with all the fixings.
Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy with fresh summer salsas or roasted vegetables in the fall.
Lunch Wraps: Use them for wraps filled with your favorite salads, grilled meats, or roasted veggies.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can make Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas in advance. Once cooked, store them in an airtight container or wrap them in a clean towel to keep them warm. For longer storage, place parchment paper between each tortilla and freeze them in a ziplock bag. Just reheat them on a skillet when you’re ready to use!

The versatility of Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas allows for endless topping options. You can fill them with grilled chicken, sautéed veggies, beans, or cheese. They also pair wonderfully with fresh salsa, guacamole, or even simple butter and salt. Get creative with your toppings to match your taste!

While the recipe calls for white whole wheat flour, you can experiment with other flours. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary. For example, using all-purpose flour will produce softer tortillas. If you need gluten-free options, there are several gluten-free flour blends available that you can try!

To keep your Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas soft, avoid overcooking them. Cook each tortilla just until they start to puff and show light brown spots. Once cooked, stack them and cover them with a clean towel to trap moisture. This will keep them warm and soft until you’re ready to serve!

Conclusion

Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas bring a touch of love and tradition to every meal. Their soft, pliable texture makes them the perfect canvas for a variety of fillings, whether savory or sweet. I encourage you to try making these at home; it’s a rewarding experience that enriches your meals and connects you to your culinary roots.

Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas

The ultimate comfort food for any meal! Homemade Whole Grain Tortillas are soft, pliable, and made with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for wraps, tacos, or simply enjoying with butter, these tortillas are a must-try for your next lunch or dinner.

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 30

Total Time 55

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 20 servings

Calories 130 kcal

Equipment

Skillet

Ingredients

3 cups white whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
6 tablespoons canola oil
1 cup hot water

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine white whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly so that the baking powder is evenly distributed.
Pour in the canola oil and work it into the flour mixture with your hands until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial to achieving a tender texture.

Gradually add hot water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be moist but not sticky. Adjust water as necessary to achieve the right consistency.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 2 to 3 minutes. You want to develop elasticity without overworking the dough. It should feel smooth and soft.
Place the kneaded dough in a bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to relax, making it easier to roll out.

After resting, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface again. Divide it into 20 equal portions, shaping each into a ball. The size can be adjusted based on how big you want your tortillas.
Roll each ball between your palms until smooth. This step ensures even cooking and a nice round shape.
Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball on a floured surface. Rotate it 45 degrees and keep rolling until you achieve an 8-inch circle. Aim for a thinness that allows them to cook quickly without tearing.

Preheat a dry skillet or griddle to medium-high heat. The skillet should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles upon contact.
Carefully place the rolled tortilla in the skillet. Cook for about 45 seconds or until air bubbles form on the surface. Flip it over and cook for another 45 seconds. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain soft and pliable.

Notes

Tip 1: As the tortillas cook, add them to either a tortilla warmer or a stoneware type casserole dish with a lid.

Tip 2: Lightly dust a large piece of parchment paper and roll out balls. Parchment paper helps prevent sticking.
Tip 3: Layer parchment between each tortilla when freezing to prevent them from sticking together.