Build Your Own Taco Bar

To make tacos, you must have tortillas (tor-tee-yas). A tortilla is a thin, flat bread made from corn or flour that is used to hold a variety of tasty fillings and toppings. Tortillas are most commonly used to make tacos, burritos, fajitas, quesadillas and many other Mexican-inspired dishes. It is similar to sada roti but with a softer, moister texture. After making these at home, you’ll never buy them from the grocery again!

Here’s everything you need to know about making tortillas from scratch. It’s much easier than you think and it’s the best way to throw a taco night for an easy weeknight dinner. 

From-Scratch Tacos

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup vegetable, canola or olive oil
• 1 cup lukewarm waterChopped pimentos
• A few sprigs of thyme

Directions

1. Combine ingredients and in a large bowl and knead by hand or with a mixer. If using a mixer, start on medium speed for about 3 minutes, then low for 1 to 2 minutes.If mixing by hand, knead for about 5 to 6 minutes to form a soft smooth dough.
2. Divide dough in half, then each half into half, continuing this process until you have 16 evenly sized pieces.
3. Roll each piece into a ball and place on a lightly floured surface.
4. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rest for at least 30 minutes.
5. When you’re ready to cook, heat a large heavy pan or tawah to medium heat.
6. Roll out each ball to a thin circle, about 1/4 inch in thickness. 
7. Place tortilla in hot pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until the surface starts bubbling.
8. Flip over and cook for another minute. Do not overcook. The goal is to have soft, pliable tortillas.These should be pale in color with just a few brown spots. Adjust heat if tortillas are browning too quickly or too slowly.
9. Place cooked tortillas in a large bowl or pot lined with wax paper or foil.
10. Keep the bowl/pot covered so that tortillas stay warm and soft. 

It’s taco time!

Tortillas can be filled with a variety of meats, veggies and herbs to make tacos. Lay each tortilla on a flat surface and on one half add shredded chicken, beef or pork, or chunks of fish or shrimp, tomato salsa or diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro or chadon beni, shredded cabbage, sliced onions, guacamole or sliced avocado, shredded cheese and/or sour cream. You can use some or all of these fillings suggestions, or be a little foodventurous and try some stewed or curried chicken and shredded cabbage.Fold over other half of tortilla. Enjoy your taco!