These Sourdough Butter Tortillas are super soft and delicious! Made with just a few simple ingredients, they are perfect for wrapping your favorite fillings or enjoying with dips.
I love how buttery they taste and how easy they are to make. Whenever I have leftover sourdough starter, these tortillas come in handy—they’re a hit with everyone! 🌮
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: You can use unfed or discard starter. If you don’t have sourdough starter, try using plain yogurt or a bit of buttermilk for similar tangy flavor. I love using discard because it reduces waste!
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but feel free to use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if you need a substitute. Just note that the texture might change slightly. I usually mix regular and whole wheat for a healthier twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich flavor, but you can swap it for olive oil or vegan butter if you want a dairy-free option. I often add a pinch of garlic powder to the melted butter for an extra kick!
Warm Water: Adjust the amount based on how dry or wet your dough feels. Sometimes, a little extra water helps bind everything together. Don’t hesitate to experiment a bit!
How Do I Make the Dough Smooth and Elastic?
Kneading is key for creating a lovely texture in these tortillas. After mixing your ingredients, here’s how to ensure your dough is just right:
- Knead for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface. The dough should be smooth and elastic, not sticky. If it sticks to your hands, sprinkle a bit of flour.
- Letting the dough rest is essential! This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out. Keep it covered to prevent drying out.
Remember, patience is vital. If the dough feels tough, it may need more resting time. With a little practice, your tortillas will turn out perfectly!
How to Make Sourdough Butter Tortillas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough starter (unfed or discard, at room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (plus extra for cooking)
- 1/3 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and kneading, plus an additional resting time of about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Cooking each tortilla will take around 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, making the total time approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes for the entire process. The good news? Most of that time is just waiting for the dough to relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, and salt. Use a spoon or fork to mix it all together until combined. It should start to come together but will be shaggy and not yet smooth.
2. Mixing in Butter and Water:
Now, add the melted butter and warm water to the mixture. Stir gently until the dough starts to form. If it’s too dry, you can add a little more warm water, just a bit at a time!
3. Kneading the Dough:
Once the dough forms, turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to feel smooth and elastic. If it sticks to your hands or the surface, sprinkle on a little extra flour as needed.
4. Resting the Dough:
After kneading, place the dough back in the bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This resting time is important because it helps relax the gluten, making your tortillas easier to roll out.
5. Shaping the Tortillas:
Once rested, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball with your hands. On a lightly floured surface, take each ball and roll it out into a thin, round tortilla about 6-7 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect circles—it’s all good!
6. Cooking the Tortillas:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add a tortilla and cook it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side. You’re looking for a few brown spots and that delightful puffing action! Optionally, brush a little melted butter on each side while cooking for a buttery flavor.
7. Keeping Them Warm:
As you cook each tortilla, stack them on a plate and cover them with a clean towel to keep them warm. This will also keep them soft!
8. Time to Serve!
Your delicious Sourdough Butter Tortillas are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm with your favorite fillings for wraps, tacos, or even just dips. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is ideal, you can substitute with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly depending on the flour you choose. If using whole wheat, you might need a bit more water due to its higher absorbency.
What If My Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough is sticky after mixing, simply sprinkle in a little more flour while kneading. Remember to knead until smooth and elastic—this will help achieve the perfect tortilla texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Tortillas?
Store any leftover tortillas in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. To reheat, just warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Can I Make These Tortillas Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the dough and let it rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours before rolling and cooking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out, as this will make it easier to work with.
