Sourdough tortillas are a delicious and versatile alternative to traditional flour tortillas. Made using a sourdough starter, these tortillas have a distinct tangy flavor and a soft, slightly chewy texture. In addition to their unique taste, sourdough tortillas offer numerous benefits, including improved digestibility and increased nutrient absorption. Whether you’re a seasoned sourdough baker or new to the world of fermented foods, this article will guide you through the process of making homemade sourdough tortillas from scratch. From creating and maintaining a sourdough starter to rolling and cooking the tortillas, I’ll provide you with all the necessary steps and tips to achieve perfect sourdough tortillas every time.

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Image illustrates a Pinterest pin of sourdough tortillas.

Introduction to Sourdough Tortillas

What Are Sourdough Tortillas?

Sourdough tortillas are a delicious twist on the classic Mexican staple. They are made using a sourdough starter, which adds a unique flavor and texture to the tortillas. Instead of relying on commercial yeast, the sourdough starter naturally ferments the dough, resulting in a tangy and slightly chewy tortilla that is perfect for wrapping up your favorite fillings. These homemade sourdough tortillas are so soft and pliable and my family cannot get enough of them!

Benefits of Using Sourdough in Tortillas

Image illustrates a cheesy burrito made with sourdough tortillas.

Using sourdough in tortillas brings a host of benefits to the table. Firstly, the fermentation process of the sourdough starter helps break down the complex carbohydrates, making the tortillas easier to digest. This can be particularly helpful for those with sensitive stomachs. Additionally, the lactic acid produced during fermentation helps to increase the nutritional value of the tortillas by enhancing the bioavailability of certain nutrients. Lastly, the sourdough starter provides a natural leavening agent, creating tortillas with a light and airy texture that is simply irresistible.

Making and Maintaining a Sourdough Starter

Gathering the Ingredients

To make your own sourdough starter, you’ll need just two ingredients: flour and water. Opt for organic, unbleached flour for the best results. You’ll also want to use filtered or bottled water to avoid any unwanted chemicals that could hinder the fermentation process. For further details, visit my other post to craft your sourdough starter.

The Ultimate Guide to Crafting a Perfectly Tangy Wild Sourdough Starter

Preparing and Feeding the Starter

Creating a sourdough starter is as easy as mixing flour and water together and letting it sit, but it does require regular feeding to keep it alive and active. Feed your starter a mixture of flour and water every day or every few days, depending on your preferred schedule. This helps to maintain a healthy balance of yeast and bacteria, ensuring a robust sourdough starter.

Storing and Maintaining the Starter

When not in use, store your sourdough starter in the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process. This will reduce the frequency of feedings and give you more flexibility in your baking schedule. Remember to remove the starter from the fridge and feed it regularly to keep it alive and ready for use.

Mixing and Fermenting the Dough

Combining the Ingredients

What you will need:

Flour.
Water.
Sourdough starter.
Salt.
Oil.

To make sourdough tortilla dough, mix your mature sourdough starter with flour, water, oil, and a pinch of salt. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to combine the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. You can also use your KitchenAid if you desire.

Kneading and Resting the Dough

Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten in the dough, giving it structure and a nice chew. After kneading, cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. This allows the sourdough to work its magic and ferment the dough.

To be honest, you can make up a batch of sourdough tortillas to keep in the fridge for up to a week or so and always have homemade tortillas on hand.

Fermenting the Dough with Sourdough Starter

During the resting period, the sourdough starter will continue to ferment the dough, adding flavor and texture. The length of fermentation can vary depending on personal preference, with longer fermentation times resulting in a more pronounced tanginess. Keep an eye on the dough and when it has visibly risen and developed small bubbles, it’s ready for the next step.

Rolling and Shaping the Tortillas

Image illustrates dough rolled out to make sourdough tortillas.

Dividing the Dough

Once the dough has fermented, it’s time to divide it into individual portions for rolling. Use a bench scraper or a knife to cut the dough into equal-sized pieces. Shape the pieces into balls and cover them with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work.

Rolling the Tortillas

Now comes the fun part – rolling out the tortillas! Dust your working surface with flour and use a rolling pin to flatten each dough ball into a thin, round tortilla. If you’re not a pro at rolling perfectly circular shapes, don’t worry; tortillas come in all shapes and sizes, and imperfections only add to their rustic charm.

The trick is to roll them out paper thin to the point you can almost see through the dough. In the following picture, I tried to capture myself holding up a rolled-out tortilla up to the light of a window to show you the transparency we are striving for.

Image illustrates dough rolled out for tortillas.

Shaping Techniques for Different Tortilla Varieties

Sourdough tortillas can be shaped in various ways to suit different recipes and preferences. For traditional tacos, simply keep the tortillas round. If you’re feeling creative, try making larger tortillas for burritos or smaller ones for street-style tacos. You can even experiment with folding techniques to create pockets for delicious fillings. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!

Cooking and Storing Sourdough Tortillas

Image illustrates sourdough tortillas cooking on a cast iron skillet.

Choosing the Right Cooking Equipment

When it comes to cooking your homemade sourdough tortillas, you don’t need any fancy gadgets or specialized equipment. A good old-fashioned stovetop is all you need. However, using a cast iron skillet or a griddle will give your tortillas that perfect golden brown color and slightly crispy texture.

Cooking the Tortillas on a Stovetop

Once your sourdough tortilla dough is ready, it’s time to cook it up! Heat your skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. No need to grease the surface as the dough already contains some fat. Place a tortilla on the hot surface and let it cook for about 30 seconds to a minute, or until you see bubbles forming on the surface. Flip it over and cook for another 30 seconds or so. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas.

Image illustrates homemade sourdough tortillas.

Be sure to keep the finished tortillas wrapped snuggly in a warm kitchen towel on top of each other in a pile. This will help keep them soft and pliable, keeping the steam within the towel each time you add a new hot tortilla.

Image illustrates a person folding a tortilla.

These tortillas are so soft and pliable and can easily be wrapped into a burrito stuffed with all of your favorite fillings.

Homemade tortillas are really worth the effort and your family will love every single bite of these tangy chewy sourdough tortillas!

Wrap them in foil to bring along on a picnic or pack for lunch if you plan to be away from your home because you will not want to leave home without them!

Storing and Reheating Sourdough Tortillas

If you happen to have any leftover sourdough tortillas (although they’re so delicious, it’s hard to imagine having leftovers), you can store them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag. They’ll stay fresh for a couple of days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm them up in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. Easy peasy!

Sourdough Tortilla Variations and Serving Suggestions

Adding Flavors and Ingredients to the Dough

Ready to get creative with your sourdough tortillas? Try adding some extra flavor to the dough! You can incorporate herbs like cilantro or spices like cumin or chili powder. For a sweeter twist, add a touch of honey or even some cinnamon. Don’t be afraid to experiment and let your taste buds guide you!

Creative Fillings and Toppings for Sourdough Tortillas

Now that you have your freshly made sourdough tortillas, it’s time to fill them up with deliciousness. Go for classic options like grilled chicken, sautéed vegetables, or beans and cheese. But don’t stop there! Get adventurous and try fillings like pulled pork, shrimp, or even tofu. And of course, don’t forget the toppings! Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and hot sauce are always welcome additions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fixing Dense or Rubber-like Tortillas

Uh-oh, did your sourdough tortillas turn out denser than you’d like? Fear not, it happens to the best of us. The most common culprit is overmixing the dough. Remember, sourdough tortillas benefit from a gentle touch. Try kneading the dough less and letting it rest longer before rolling it out. This will help the gluten relax, resulting in lighter and fluffier tortillas.

Dealing with Sticky or Cracked Dough

Sticky or cracked dough can be a bit frustrating, but don’t throw in the towel just yet. If your dough is too sticky, try adding a sprinkle of flour at a time until it becomes more manageable. On the other hand, if your dough keeps cracking when you roll it out, it might be too dry. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to give it some moisture and elasticity.

Addressing Other Common Problems

If you encounter any other issues along your sourdough tortilla-making journey, don’t panic! There’s always a solution. If your tortillas puff up like balloons when cooking, simply press them gently with a spatula to deflate. And if they don’t puff up at all, make sure your skillet or griddle is preheated properly. Adjusting the heat and cooking time can also work wonders for troubleshooting any other minor imperfections.

Conclusion and Final Tips

Final Thoughts on Making Sourdough Tortillas

Congratulations, you’ve mastered the art of making sourdough tortillas! They may take a bit more time and effort than their store-bought counterparts, but the flavor and satisfaction they bring are well worth it. So pat yourself on the back and indulge in the delightful creations you’ve made.

Additional Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sourdough Tortillas

Before we wrap up, here are a few bonus tips to take your sourdough tortillas to the next level:

Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or spelt, to add extra depth of flavor.
Don’t roll out your tortillas too thin or too thick. Aim for a thickness of around ⅛ to ¼ inch for that perfect balance.
If you prefer softer tortillas, cover them with a clean kitchen towel as you cook them to retain moisture.
Have fun and be patient. Making sourdough tortillas is an art that gets better with practice. Embrace the process, learn from your experiences, and enjoy the journey to sourdough perfection!

Making sourdough tortillas is a rewarding culinary adventure that allows you to experience the unique flavors and benefits of sourdough in a new way. With the guidance provided in this article, you now have the knowledge and tools to create delicious sourdough tortillas in your own kitchen. Remember to experiment with different variations, fillings, and cooking methods to find your personal favorite. So, embark on your sourdough tortilla-making journey and enjoy the wonderful world of homemade, tangy goodness! Enjoy!

Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a store-bought sourdough starter for making sourdough tortillas?

Yes, you can use a store-bought sourdough starter to make sourdough tortillas. However, keep in mind that the flavor and characteristics of the starter may vary, which can affect the final taste and texture of the tortillas. It’s recommended to use a well-established, active starter for the best results.

2. How long does it take to ferment the sourdough tortilla dough?

The fermentation time for sourdough tortilla dough can vary depending on factors such as temperature and the strength of your sourdough starter. On average, it can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours for the dough to ferment. It’s important to monitor the dough closely and look for signs of fermentation, such as increased volume and a bubbly appearance.

3. Can I freeze sourdough tortillas for later use?

Yes, you can freeze sourdough tortillas for later use. Once cooked and cooled, stack the tortillas with parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight freezer bag or container and store them in the freezer. To thaw, simply remove the desired number of tortillas and let them thaw at room temperature. Reheat them in a hot pan or microwave before serving.

Sourdough Tortillas Recipe

Sourdough tortillas are a delightful and versatile option for those seeking a twist on traditional flatbread. The unique tanginess of the sourdough creates a depth of flavor that elevates any dish it accompanies. Made with a combination of sourdough starter, flour, water, oil, and a pinch of salt, these tortillas are allowed to proof overnight, resulting in an airy and light texture. When cooked on a griddle or skillet, they develop an enticing crispness on the outside while remaining soft and pliable on the inside. Whether used to wrap up savory fillings like grilled chicken or pulled pork, or simply enjoyed as a standalone snack with some melted butter or avocado spread, sourdough tortillas add character to any meal. So next time you want to switch things up in your culinary repertoire, give these tangy delights a try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Bulk Fermentation Time 8

Total Time 8 30

Servings 12 tortillas

Equipment

1 large mixing bowl
1 large cast iron skillet or griddle.

Ingredients

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour or unbleached flour.
¼ cup vegetable oil or olive oil.
1 ¼ cups water.
1 tsp salt.
½ cup sourdough starter.

Instructions