How to Make Corn Tortillas, and where to source it
Two ingredients, and the whole thing hinges on the hydration. The dough should feel like soft play-dough and hold a fingerprint without cracking at the edges. Too dry and it splits in the press every time, which is the single reason most people give up on these.
The ratio2 cups masa harina + 1½ cups warm water. Dough should hold a fingerprint without cracking.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep10 min
Cook20 min
Makes15 tortillas
CuisineMexican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for15tortillas
Masa harina
Nixtamalised corn flour — not cornmeal, not polenta, not corn flour. This is the one ingredient you cannot substitute.
Mix and read the doughMasa and salt in a bowl, warm water poured in, mixed with a hand until it comes together. Knead one minute. Press a ball flat with your palm — smooth edges mean it's right, cracked edges mean it needs more water.
Rest ten minutesCovered. The masa keeps absorbing, and a dough that felt right may need another splash after resting.
Press between plasticA cut-open freezer bag on both plates of the press stops sticking completely. Golf-ball of dough, slightly off-centre toward the hinge, press firm.
Griddle in three turnsHot dry comal. Thirty seconds, flip, one minute, flip back for thirty seconds — the second flip is what makes it puff. A puffed tortilla is a correctly cooked one.
Steam them softStraight into a towel-lined bowl, covered. Ten minutes of their own steam turns them from slightly stiff to properly pliable.
Make it yoursBlue masa is worth seeking out and tastes sweeter. A spoon of chili powder in the dough is good for taco night. Leftovers cut in wedges and fried are tortilla chips.
Can you make How to Make Corn Tortillas in an air fryer? — Yes
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze How to Make Corn Tortillas? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make How to Make Corn Tortillas ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is How to Make Corn Tortillas gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is How to Make Corn Tortillas vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
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