Mexico‘s rich gastronomical heritage is far more diverse than Mexican restaurant fare popular in the United States.  When I think of Mexico I think of my favourite street foods…tacos, taquitos, quesadillas and more!  What better way to hone in on the flavours of Mexico by learning the basics.  Take tortillas, for example.  It’s a staple in most Mexican dishes and I never realized how easy it was to make at home.  There is nothing quite like home-made tortillas.  Once you have mastered it, you’ll never go back to store-bought…

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1/2 cup warm water

Directions:

1. Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl.  Add in the shortening until it is well combined.
2. Gradually add the warm water until you have dough formation.  You can improvise by adding more water (one tablespoon at a time) as needed.
3. Knead the dough about 15-20 times; then cover for about 15 minutes.
4. Divide into 6-8 ball portions and roll on a lightly floured surface until flatten.
5. Stack each flatten dough separately with wax paper.
6. When ready, place tortillas, one at a time, on an ungreased skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 30 seconds or until edges curl slightly.
7. Wrap the tortillas in foil to keep warm and ready to serve!  That’s it…Vamos a comer!—gcc

Recipe adapted from Mexican (Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publications)