Homemade Tortillas

Best Homemade Tortillas in Los Angeles

By Juan Oct 8, 2023

In this article, we will be discussing the best homemade tortillas in Los Angeles. Whether you prefer them soft and fluffy or crispy and thin, the city has a variety of options that won’t disappoint. We’ll explore some of the top spots for homemade tortillas, highlighting their distinct flavors and techniques. So, if you’re a tortilla enthusiast or just looking to explore new flavors, keep reading!

The History of Tortillas

Tortillas have been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries, and their history is closely intertwined with the history of Mexico itself. The ancient Aztecs and Mayans both made flatbreads from corn, which they used to wrap around fillings like beans and meat, creating an early version of the taco. The Spanish conquistadors brought wheat to Mexico in the 16th century, and from there, wheat tortillas became popular in the northern regions of Mexico.

Today, tortillas come in many varieties, from the classic corn tortilla to the flour tortilla, which is more common in the United States. In Los Angeles, you can find a wide range of tortillas, from store-bought to homemade, and each one has its unique flavor, texture, and cultural significance.

The Importance of Homemade Tortillas

There’s something special about homemade tortillas that you just can’t get from store-bought. Maybe it’s the taste of fresh masa, or the love and care that goes into each tortilla. Whatever it is, homemade tortillas are a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican food.

In Los Angeles, there are many places where you can find homemade tortillas, from small taquerias to high-end restaurants. Some of the best homemade tortillas in Los Angeles are made by local families who have been making tortillas for generations. These tortillas are made using traditional methods, and they have a unique flavor and texture that you won’t find anywhere else.

Key takeaway: Homemade tortillas have a unique flavor and texture that cannot be found in store-bought tortillas. There are many places to find the best homemade tortillas in Los Angeles, including La Azteca Tortilleria, El Ruso Mexican Food, Guerrilla Tacos, and La Mascota Bakery. To make the best homemade tortillas, use fresh masa harina, don’t overwork the dough, let it rest before dividing it, use a tortilla press, cook them on a hot skillet or griddle, and keep them warm in a clean kitchen towel while cooking.

Where to Find the Best Homemade Tortillas in Los Angeles

If you’re looking for the best homemade tortillas in Los Angeles, you have plenty of options. Here are a few of our favorites:

Key takeaway: Homemade tortillas are an essential part of authentic Mexican cuisine, and they offer a unique taste and texture that can’t be found in store-bought tortillas. There are many places in Los Angeles where you can find the best homemade tortillas, including small taquerias, high-end restaurants, and historic bakeries. If you want to try making homemade tortillas yourself, it’s not as difficult as you might think, and there are plenty of tips and recipes available to help you get started.

La Azteca Tortilleria

La Azteca Tortilleria is a family-owned business that has been making tortillas in Los Angeles since 1947. They make their tortillas using traditional methods and ingredients, and each tortilla is made by hand. Their tortillas are available for purchase at their storefront, and they’re a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Mexican food.

El Ruso Mexican Food

El Ruso Mexican Food is a small taqueria in East Los Angeles that’s known for its delicious homemade tortillas. They make their tortillas fresh every day, and they’re a perfect complement to their tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes. If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and try their famous tortillas.

Guerrilla Tacos

Guerrilla Tacos is a popular food truck that serves up some of the best tacos in Los Angeles. They make their tortillas using heirloom corn, which gives them a unique flavor and texture. Their tortillas are the perfect foundation for their creative and delicious taco combinations, and they’re a must-try for anyone who loves innovative Mexican cuisine.

How to Make Homemade Tortillas

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making homemade tortillas yourself. It’s not as hard as you might think, and the results are well worth the effort. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade tortillas:

Key takeaway: Homemade tortillas are a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican food, and Los Angeles has many places to find them. La Azteca Tortilleria, El Ruso Mexican Food, and Guerrilla Tacos are some of the best places to find homemade tortillas in Los Angeles. If you want to try making homemade tortillas yourself, use fresh masa harina and follow a simple recipe. Don’t overwork the dough, use a tortilla press if you have one, and cook the tortillas on a hot skillet or griddle for the best results.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups masa harina
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the masa harina and salt.
2. Slowly add the warm water, mixing with your hands until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it’s smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Flatten each ball with a tortilla press or a rolling pin until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
7. Cook the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they’re lightly browned and cooked through.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite fillings.

La Mascota Bakery

La Mascota Bakery is a historic bakery in Boyle Heights that has been serving up delicious Mexican pastries and bread for over 60 years. In addition to their sweet treats, they also make some of the best homemade tortillas in Los Angeles. Their tortillas are made using traditional methods and ingredients, and they’re a perfect complement to their savory dishes.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Tortillas

If you want to take your homemade tortillas to the next level, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use fresh masa harina for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overwork the dough – knead it just enough to bring it together.
• Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes before dividing it into balls.
• Use a tortilla press if you have one – it will help you get the perfect thickness and shape.
• Cook the tortillas on a hot skillet or griddle – this will help them puff up and develop a nice char.
• Keep the tortillas warm in a clean kitchen towel as you cook them.

FAQs for Best Homemade Tortillas in Los Angeles

What are the best places to find homemade tortillas in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a hub for delicious Mexican cuisine, and you can find homemade tortillas at several locations throughout the city. Some places known for the best homemade tortillas in Los Angeles include Burritos La Palma in El Monte, La Azteca Tortilleria in East Los Angeles, and Guisados in Boyle Heights. These locations are the best because they offer freshly-made tortillas daily and use traditional recipes that have been passed down for generations.

What makes homemade tortillas different from store-bought ones?

Homemade tortillas are made from scratch using simple ingredients like masa harina, water, and salt. They are also made without preservatives, which means they have a shorter shelf life but also taste fresher. Store-bought tortillas, on the other hand, are made using a mix of chemicals and preservatives to prolong their shelf life. They may also contain additives like sugar, vegetable oil, and enzymes that can change their texture and taste.

Can I make homemade tortillas at home?

Yes, you can absolutely make homemade tortillas at home. All you need is masa harina, water, and salt. Mix the ingredients together to form a dough, and then roll them out into thin circles. You can cook them on a griddle or skillet for a few seconds on each side until they’re lightly browned. Homemade tortillas may take some practice to perfect, but once you get the hang of it, they will be a delicious addition to your meals.

Are homemade tortillas healthier than store-bought ones?

Homemade tortillas may be slightly healthier than store-bought ones because they are made from simple ingredients and don’t contain any additives or preservatives. They are also typically thinner and lower in calories than store-bought tortillas, which can be thicker and contain more calories. However, nutritionally, homemade and store-bought tortillas are very similar.

How do I store homemade tortillas?

Homemade tortillas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you’d like to keep them for longer, you can freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to six months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature and warm them up on a griddle or skillet.