Transform ordinary corn into extraordinary flour: learn the art of tortilla making

Tortillas, a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, hold a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. While store-bought corn tortillas offer convenience, nothing beats the authentic flavor and texture of tortillas made from scratch. To embark on this culinary adventure, you must first master the art of making corn flour, the essential ingredient for creating perfect tortillas.

Sourcing the Perfect Corn

The foundation of exceptional corn flour lies in selecting the right corn. Nixtamalized corn, also known as hominy, is the key to unlocking the true potential of corn flour. This process involves soaking corn kernels in an alkaline solution, usually limewater, which removes the hull and germ, leaving behind the endosperm. The resulting nixtamalized corn is then ground into a fine powder to create corn flour.

The Traditional Grinding Process

Traditionally, corn flour for tortillas was made using a metate, a stone grinding tool. This labor-intensive process requires patience and skill to achieve the desired consistency. However, for those seeking a more modern approach, electric mills provide an efficient alternative. Regardless of the method chosen, the goal is to obtain a finely ground corn flour that will produce pliable and flavorful tortillas.

Hydrating the Corn Flour

Once the corn flour is ready, it’s time to hydrate it. This step is crucial for developing the gluten-like proteins that give tortillas their elasticity. Warm water is gradually added to the corn flour while mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be pliable and slightly sticky, but not too wet.

Shaping the Dough

With the dough prepared, it’s time to shape the tortillas. Divide the dough into equal portions and form balls. Using a tortilla press or a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin, round shape. The thickness should be consistent throughout to ensure even cooking.

Cooking the Tortillas

Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the tortillas on the hot surface and cook for about 30 seconds per side, or until lightly browned and slightly puffed up. Keep the tortillas warm by wrapping them in a clean cloth or placing them in a tortilla warmer.

Enhancing the Flavor

While plain corn tortillas are delicious on their own, there are several ways to enhance their flavor:

• Season the dough: Add herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the dough before shaping to infuse the tortillas with extra flavor.
• Brush with oil: Brush the tortillas lightly with oil before cooking to create a crispy exterior.
• Add toppings: Serve the tortillas with your favorite fillings, such as beans, meat, cheese, or salsa, to create a complete meal.

The Versatility of Corn Flour

Beyond tortillas, corn flour offers a versatile culinary canvas:

• Arepas: Corn flour forms the base of arepas, a traditional Venezuelan flatbread.
• Tamales: Corn flour is used to make the masa, the dough that encases tamales, a popular Mexican dish.
• Polenta: Coarsely ground corn flour is transformed into polenta, a creamy porridge that can be enjoyed as a side dish or used in various recipes.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh corn: Nixtamalized corn kernels should be used within a few months of purchase for optimal flavor and texture.
• Grind the corn finely: A fine grind ensures that the tortillas will be pliable and easy to work with.
• Hydrate the dough properly: Too much water will result in tortillas that are too soft, while too little water will make them brittle.
• Cook the tortillas evenly: Rotate the tortillas frequently on the hot surface to prevent burning.
• Store the tortillas properly: Keep tortillas warm and covered to prevent them from drying out.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use regular corn flour to make tortillas?
A: No, regular corn flour is not suitable for making tortillas. It lacks the necessary gluten-like proteins that give tortillas their characteristic texture.

Q: How long do homemade corn tortillas last?
A: If stored properly in an airtight container, homemade corn tortillas can last for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze homemade corn tortillas?
A: Yes, you can freeze homemade corn tortillas. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.