Homemade Flour Tortillas
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh, homemade flour tortillas warming in the pan. This simple vegan recipe uses basic larder staples to create soft, pliable wraps that far surpass any shop-bought alternative. By using vegetable shortening and hot water, you achieve a light texture and a delicate char that provides the perfect base for your favourite Mexican-inspired fillings.
These versatile tortillas are ideal for a family taco night or as a quick accompaniment to a spicy bean chilli. Because they are completely plant-based, they are a fantastic addition to a vegan diet without compromising on flavour or soft, pillowy consistency. For an optional twist, you can even fold finely chopped pecans into the dough for a nutty crunch and extra depth.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Homemade Flour Tortillas
325g plain flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoons baking powder
80ml vegetable shortening
80ml hot water, or as necessary
How to make Homemade Flour Tortillas
Combine the flour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Add the shortening and hot water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into 16 pieces and shape each into a ball (these are called testales). On a floured surface, using a floured rolling pin, roll out each ball to a 6-inch circle.
Heat a griddle until hot. Place a tortilla on the griddle and cook until the bottom is lightly browned in spots, 1 to 2 minutes; the tortilla will puff up. Turn and cook until lightly browned in spots on the second side. Place in a towel-lined basket and cover with the towel to keep warm while you cook the remaining tortillas. Serve immediately.
For extra flavour and crunch, add 110g finely chopped pecans to the dough, mixing thoroughly.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.