Why Make Homemade Einkorn Flour Tortillas?

Crafting your own tortillas at home is an easy and fulfilling way to elevate your meals. These soft and thin tortillas, made with einkorn flour, offer a wholesome, nutty flavor and exceptional texture. Unlike store-bought options, homemade einkorn tortillas are free of preservatives and can be customized to suit your preferences. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prepping or hosting gatherings.

What Makes Einkorn Flour Special?

Einkorn flour is an ancient grain known for its rich taste, nutritional value, and golden hue. Compared to modern wheat, einkorn has a simpler gluten structure, which makes it more digestible for some people. Its natural sweetness and slightly nutty flavor complement savory and sweet dishes alike.

Using einkorn in tortillas not only boosts the flavor but also enhances the health benefits of your meals. Rich in protein, essential nutrients, and antioxidants, einkorn flour is a game-changer for bread and tortilla recipes.

The Perfect Combination of Ingredients

To make flawless einkorn tortillas, each ingredient plays a vital role:

1. Einkorn Flour (405g): Provides a nutty flavor and a distinctive golden color.
2. Lard or Beef Tallow (1/3 cup): Offers a rich texture and pliability. It’s essential for creating soft tortillas that won’t crack when folded.
3. Hot Water (1 cup): Hydrates the flour and melts the fat, forming a smooth and elastic dough.
4. Baking Powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a slight lift to the tortillas for a light, airy texture.
5. Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor.

Secrets to the Best Tortillas

1. Use Hot Water: Nearly boiling water is crucial for dissolving the fat and evenly hydrating the einkorn flour. This step ensures a smooth dough with minimal effort.
2. Choose the Right Fat: Lard or beef tallow creates the best texture for tortillas. Avoid butter or coconut oil, which can lead to less flexible results.
3. Let the Dough Rest: Resting the dough for at least 50 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out thin and uniform tortillas.
4. Cook with Precision: Cook each tortilla on a medium-hot skillet for the perfect balance of golden spots and softness.

Step-by-Step Process for Homemade Einkorn Tortillas

Making einkorn tortillas is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for delicious results every time:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: Combine einkorn flour, salt, and baking powder in a mixing bowl. Stir well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
2. Add the Fat: Cut in room-temperature lard or tallow using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Hydrate the Dough: Slowly pour hot water into the center of the flour mixture while stirring. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until it forms a smooth ball. Avoid over-kneading to keep the tortillas soft.
5. Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rest for 50 minutes.

Rolling Out and Cooking Your Tortillas

1. Portion the Dough: After resting, divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and keep them covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
2. Roll Thin Circles: Lightly flour a work surface and roll each ball into a thin, round tortilla. Aim for even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
3. Cook on a Hot Skillet: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place a tortilla on the hot surface and cook for about 45 seconds, until bubbles form. Flip and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds.
4. Keep Warm: Stack cooked tortillas and wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to retain softness.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Tortillas

Storing:
Fresh tortillas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze the tortillas:

• Stack them with parchment paper between each tortilla to prevent sticking.
• Wrap the stack in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:
To enjoy frozen tortillas, remove the plastic wrap, rewrap in foil, and place in a 200°F oven for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.

Serving Ideas for Homemade Tortillas

Einkorn tortillas are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes:

• Breakfast Burritos: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies.
• Tacos: Use as a base for your favorite taco fillings, such as grilled chicken, beef, or roasted vegetables.
• Quesadillas: Layer with cheese and beans, then toast until golden and melty.
• Sweet Wraps: Spread with honey, nut butter, or chocolate spread for a quick dessert.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why are my tortillas cracking?
Cracking is often due to insufficient hydration. Ensure the dough is soft and pliable by using hot water and allowing it to rest.

How can I achieve a perfect circle?
Practice makes perfect! Use even pressure when rolling, and don’t worry if your tortillas aren’t perfectly round – they’ll still taste amazing.

Can I use a rolling pin alternative?
If you don’t have a rolling pin, a clean glass bottle works just as well.