Have you been missing soft, pliable tortillas since going gluten-free? I know exactly how you feel! After countless attempts and experiments in my kitchen, I’ve finally perfected these gluten-free tortillas that taste just like the real deal. They’re soft, flexible, and perfect for all your favorite wraps and Mexican dishes.
Why You’ll Love These Tortillas
These homemade gluten-free tortillas have become a staple in my kitchen, and here’s why they’ll become your favorite too:
- They stay soft and pliable even when cooled
- No complicated ingredients required
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Perfect for meal prep
- Freezer-friendly
- Budget-friendly compared to store-bought options
Ingredients Needed
For approximately 8 medium-sized tortillas:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend | 2 cups (240g) | With xanthan gum included |
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon | Fine grain |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | Aluminum-free |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Or melted coconut oil |
| Warm water | 3/4 cup (180ml) | Temperature around 110°F |
Equipment Required
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | For combining ingredients |
| Rolling pin | For flattening tortillas |
| Cast iron skillet or griddle | For cooking |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For accurate measurements |
| Plastic wrap or parchment paper | For rolling process |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, salt, and baking powder
- Create a well in the center and add olive oil
- Gradually pour in warm water while stirring with a wooden spoon
- Knead for 2-3 minutes until a smooth dough forms
- Rest the Dough
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel
- Let rest for 10 minutes at room temperature
- This allows the flour to fully hydrate
- Divide and Shape
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions
- Roll each portion into a ball
- Cover the balls with a damp cloth to prevent drying
- Roll Out the Tortillas
- Place a dough ball between two pieces of parchment paper
- Roll into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick
- Aim for 7-8 inches in diameter
- Cook the Tortillas
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat
- Cook each tortilla for 45-60 seconds per side
- Look for light brown spots to indicate doneness
- Stack cooked tortillas and keep covered with a kitchen towel
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
I’ve learned these crucial tips through many test batches:
- Keep the dough slightly sticky – resist adding too much flour
- Use hot water (110°F) to help activate the xanthan gum
- Don’t skip the resting period
- Roll between parchment paper to prevent sticking
- Stack and cover warm tortillas to keep them soft and pliable
Nutritional Information
Per tortilla:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These tortillas stay fresh for:
- Room temperature: 2 days in an airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (separate with parchment paper)
Serving Suggestions
These versatile tortillas work perfectly for:
- Breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs and vegetables
- Lunch wraps with hummus and fresh veggies
- Fish tacos with slaw and avocado
- Quesadillas with Mexican-style cheese and beans
- Enchiladas with your favorite sauce and fillings
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tortillas crack | Too dry or overcooked | Add more water to dough or reduce cooking time |
| Dough too sticky | Too much water | Gradually add more flour while kneading |
| Won’t roll thin | Dough too elastic | Let rest longer between rolling attempts |
| Tortillas tough | Overworked dough | Knead more gently and briefly |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different gluten-free flour blend?
Yes, but ensure it contains xanthan gum. If it doesn’t, add 1 teaspoon to the recipe.
Q: Why are my tortillas breaking?
The most common cause is too little moisture. The dough should be slightly sticky when mixing.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for 3 months.
Q: How do I reheat them?
Microwave for 15-20 seconds between damp paper towels, or warm briefly in a skillet.
Q: Are these tortillas dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as well as gluten-free.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious variations:
| Variation | Additional Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Herb-infused | 1 tbsp fresh herbs | Add with dry ingredients |
| Spinach | 1/4 cup spinach puree | Reduce water accordingly |
| Tomato | 2 tbsp tomato paste | Adds nice color and flavor |
| Garlic | 1 tsp garlic powder | Mix with dry ingredients |
I hope you enjoy making and eating these gluten-free tortillas as much as I do! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if your first batch isn’t picture-perfect. Keep at it, and you’ll be a tortilla-making expert in no time.
