Authentic Homemade Flour Tortilla Recipe with Lard: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're craving the rich, traditional flavor of authentic Mexican tortillas, look no further. This flour tortilla recipe with lard will transport you stra……

If you're craving the rich, traditional flavor of authentic Mexican tortillas, look no further. This flour tortilla recipe with lard will transport you straight to the heart of Mexico, where the use of lard in tortillas is a time-honored tradition. Lard imparts a unique flavor and texture that is hard to replicate with other fats. Here’s a detailed guide to making these delicious tortillas at home.

### Ingredients:

- 3 cups of all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of baking powder

- 1/3 cup of lard (preferably rendered from pork fat)

- 1 cup of warm water

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, salt, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl. Use a whisk to ensure that the ingredients are well blended. This step is crucial for the even distribution of the leavening agent, which will help your tortillas puff up slightly when cooked.

#### Step 2: Incorporate the Lard

Add the lard to the dry ingredients. Using your hands, work the lard into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This process is similar to making pie dough. The lard should be evenly distributed, with no large chunks remaining. The goal is to create a mixture that holds together when you press it in your hand.

#### Step 3: Add Warm Water

Gradually add the warm water to the mixture, stirring with a spoon or your hands until a dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too dry, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour.

#### Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for developing the gluten, which gives the tortillas their chewy texture. The dough should become smooth and elastic.

#### Step 5: Rest the Dough

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape them into balls. Place them on a plate, cover with a damp cloth, and let them rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out the dough.

#### Step 6: Roll Out the Tortillas

On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each ball of dough into a thin circle, about 6-8 inches in diameter. Try to make them as thin as possible without tearing the dough. If the dough springs back while rolling, let it rest for a few more minutes before trying again.

#### Step 7: Cook the Tortillas

Heat a cast-iron skillet or a griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place a rolled-out tortilla in the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until brown spots appear and the tortilla puffs up slightly. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

#### Step 8: Keep Warm and Serve

As you cook each tortilla, place it in a tortilla warmer or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm and pliable. Serve immediately with your favorite fillings, such as carne asada, grilled vegetables, or just a simple spread of butter.

### Tips for Perfect Tortillas:

1. **Use Fresh Lard:** Freshly rendered lard will give your tortillas the best flavor. You can render your own from pork fat or purchase high-quality lard from a butcher or specialty store.

2. **Warm Water:** Make sure the water you add to the dough is warm, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast in the baking powder, while cold water can make the dough too stiff.

3. **Resting Time:** Don’t skip the resting period for the dough. This step is crucial for making the dough easier to roll out and achieving the right texture.

### Conclusion:

This flour tortilla recipe with lard is a fantastic way to bring the authentic taste of homemade tortillas to your table. The process is straightforward and the results are well worth the effort. Once you've tried these tortillas, you'll never want to go back to store-bought ones. Enjoy the rich, savory flavor that only lard can provide, and savor every bite of your homemade creation.