Homemade Tortillas Brooklyn: A Personal Journey into the Heart of Mexican Cuisine

By Juan Nov 19, 2023

In this article, we will be discussing one of the most beloved Mexican staples: homemade tortillas. We will specifically be focusing on where to find the best homemade tortillas in Brooklyn. Tortillas are a staple food in Mexican cuisine and are used in a variety of dishes such as tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and more. While store-bought tortillas are convenient, there is nothing quite like the taste and texture of fresh, homemade tortillas. Join us as we explore the best places to find homemade tortillas in Brooklyn.

The First Encounter: A Love Affair with Tortillas

Growing up in Mexico, I never thought twice about tortillas. They were just a staple in our diet, something we ate every day without giving it much thought. It wasn’t until I moved to Brooklyn that I truly appreciated the magic of homemade tortillas. I remember the first time I tasted one – it was like a revelation. The texture, the flavor, the aroma – everything was perfect. That’s when I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.

The Secret Ingredient: Masa Harina

The first thing you need to know about homemade tortillas is that the secret ingredient is masa harina. This is a special type of corn flour that’s been treated with lime to make it more digestible and give it a unique flavor. You can find it in most grocery stores these days, but I prefer to buy it from a Mexican specialty store. The quality is just better.

The Art of Rolling: How to Make Tortillas

Making tortillas is an art form. It takes practice, patience, and a little bit of skill. Here’s my step-by-step guide to making the perfect tortilla:

Mix the masa harina with water until you get a smooth, pliable dough.
Form the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Flatten the balls with a tortilla press or a rolling pin until they’re about 1/8 inch thick.
Cook the tortillas on a hot griddle for about 30 seconds on each side, until they’re lightly browned and cooked through.

The Perfect Pairing: Tacos and Tortillas

Tacos and tortillas go together like peanut butter and jelly. In fact, you can’t have a taco without a tortilla. The beauty of homemade tortillas is that they’re versatile. You can use them for tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and more. The possibilities are endless.

The Cultural Significance: A Celebration of Mexican Heritage

Tortillas have a deep cultural significance in Mexico. They’ve been a staple in our diet for thousands of years, dating back to the Aztecs. Making tortillas is a way of connecting with our heritage and preserving our traditions. It’s also a way of sharing our culture with others and introducing them to the magic of Mexican cuisine.

The Final Verdict: Why Homemade Tortillas are Worth the Effort

Making homemade tortillas takes time and effort, but the end result is worth it. There’s nothing quite like the taste of a fresh, warm tortilla straight off the griddle. It’s a sensory experience that’s hard to put into words. If you’ve never tried making homemade tortillas before, I highly recommend giving it a try. It’s a rewarding experience that will deepen your appreciation for Mexican cuisine and culture.

Key Takeaway: Homemade tortillas have a deep cultural significance in Mexico and are a foundation of many Mexican dishes. Making them is an art form that takes practice and patience, but the end result is worth it. The secret ingredient is masa harina, and high-quality ingredients, proper cooking techniques, and experimentation with fillings and toppings can create unique and delicious tacos. If in Brooklyn, Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos and Mesa Coyoacan are great places to try homemade tortillas.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Use high-quality masa harina for the best results.
Don’t overwork the dough. It should be smooth and pliable, but not too sticky.
Use a tortilla press or a rolling pin to flatten the dough.
Cook the tortillas on a hot, dry griddle.
Keep the tortillas warm in a tortilla warmer or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel.
Experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your own unique tacos.

The History of Tortillas

Tortillas have been a staple in the Mexican diet for thousands of years, dating back to the Aztec civilization. The Aztecs made tortillas from corn, which was a staple crop in their diet. They would grind the corn into a dough and then shape it into small, round cakes. They would cook these cakes on a griddle, just like we do today.

When the Spanish arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, they introduced wheat to the region. This led to the development of flour tortillas, which are still popular today. However, corn tortillas remain the most traditional and authentic type of tortilla in Mexican cuisine.

Key takeaway: Homemade tortillas are an essential part of Mexican cuisine and have deep cultural significance. Making tortillas takes practice and patience, but the end result is worth it. The key to making the perfect tortilla is using high-quality masa harina and not overworking the dough. Homemade tortillas are versatile and can be used for a variety of dishes, from tacos to enchiladas. If you’re in Brooklyn, Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos and Mesa Coyoacan are great places to find homemade tortillas.

Regional Variations of Tortillas

Just like Mexican cuisine itself, tortillas vary from region to region. In the northern part of Mexico, flour tortillas are more popular, while in the southern part, corn tortillas are the norm. In some regions, tortillas are flavored with herbs or spices, while in others, they’re stuffed with cheese or meat.

One popular variation is the blue corn tortilla, which is made from blue corn instead of yellow corn. Blue corn tortillas have a nuttier flavor and a denser texture than traditional corn tortillas. They’re often used in dishes like tacos de pescado (fish tacos) or tacos de camarones (shrimp tacos).

Key takeaway: Homemade tortillas have a deep cultural significance in Mexican cuisine and making them is a way of preserving traditions and connecting with Mexican heritage. Using high-quality masa harina, not overworking the dough, and cooking the tortillas on a hot griddle are important tips for success. Regional variations of tortillas exist, ranging from flour in the north to blue corn in the south. Popular places to find homemade tortillas in Brooklyn include Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos and Mesa Coyoacan.

The Importance of Homemade Tortillas in Mexican Cuisine

In Mexican cuisine, homemade tortillas are the foundation of many dishes. They’re used as a vessel for fillings, as a side dish, and even as a snack. They’re a symbol of our cultural heritage and a way of preserving our traditions. Making homemade tortillas is a way of showing love and care for your family and friends, and it’s a way of keeping our culinary traditions alive.

Key Takeaway: Homemade tortillas have a deep cultural significance in Mexican cuisine and are the foundation of many dishes. Making them is an art form that takes practice and patience, but the end result is worth the effort. Masa harina is the secret ingredient, and there are regional variations of tortillas that incorporate different flavors and ingredients. If you’re in Brooklyn, Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos and Mesa Coyoacan are great places to find homemade tortillas.

Where to Find Homemade Tortillas in Brooklyn

If you’re in Brooklyn and looking for homemade tortillas, there are a few places you can check out. One popular spot is Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos in Bushwick. This family-owned business has been making fresh tortillas since 2007, and they’re known for their high-quality, authentic tortillas.

Another great option is Mesa Coyoacan in Williamsburg. This Mexican restaurant is known for its delicious tacos and homemade tortillas, which are made fresh every day. They also offer a variety of fillings and toppings, so you can create your own unique taco combinations.

FAQs – Homemade Tortillas Brooklyn

What makes homemade tortillas different from store-bought ones?

Homemade tortillas are different from store-bought ones in terms of taste and texture. Homemade tortillas are made with simple and fresh ingredients, making them more flavorful and tender compared to store-bought ones. Also, homemade tortillas do not have any preservatives, additives, or other chemicals, making them healthier. Further, homemade tortillas are often thicker and more substantial than store-bought tortillas, which can be somewhat flimsy and dry.

Where can I find homemade tortillas in Brooklyn?

There are several places in Brooklyn where you can find homemade tortillas. Some local markets, such as Brooklyn Fare and Union Market, offer homemade tortillas that are fresh and flavorful. Additionally, there are several Mexican restaurants and food trucks in Brooklyn that make their tortillas from scratch, offering a variety of sizes, flavors and styles.

Is it easy to make homemade tortillas at home?

Yes, it is relatively easy to make homemade tortillas at home. Most recipes require only a few essential ingredients, such as flour, water, salt, and oil, which can be found in most grocery stores. To make the tortillas, you simply mix the ingredients, knead the dough, roll it out into circles, cook them on a griddle or skillet, and enjoy.

What kind of flour is used to make homemade tortillas?

Corn and wheat flour are the two most commonly used flours to make homemade tortillas. Corn flour is used to make traditional Mexican tortillas, while flour tortillas are made with wheat flour. If you want a gluten-free option, you can use masa harina, a type of corn flour, to make your tortillas.

How long do homemade tortillas last?

Homemade tortillas can last for up to a week if stored properly. To keep them fresh, wrap them in a clean towel or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for too long as they can develop mold or go stale quickly. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To thaw, simply take them out of the freezer and leave them at room temperature or reheat them on a skillet.

By Juan

¡Hola amigos! Welcome to "Taco Rocoslo," your ultimate destination for everything taco-related! My name is Juan Carlos, and I'm the loco behind this mouth-watering blog. So, buckle up, because we're going on a wild ride through the delicious world of tacos, exploring everything from traditional Mexican flavors to funky fusion creations. As a proud Mexican with a passion for our rich culinary heritage, I'm here to celebrate the humble taco in all its glory.

Homemade Tortillas