Soaked Whole Wheat Tortillas with Long Fermentation Method

Traditional whole wheat tortillas enhanced with an optional soaking method that improves digestibility and develops deeper flavor through 12-24 hour fermentation. Made with freshly ground whole wheat flour, olive oil, and a touch of apple cider vinegar, these homemade tortillas offer superior taste and texture compared to store-bought versions. The soaking process breaks down phytic acid and makes nutrients more bioavailable, while creating tortillas that are tender, pliable, and perfect for wraps, tacos, or quesadillas. Choose between quick preparation or the traditional soaked method for enhanced nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients
- 6 cups whole wheat flour, preferably freshly ground
- 2 cups pure water, cold
- 6 tablespoons raw apple cider vinegar(optional)
- 1 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus additional for frying
Instructions
- 1
Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in mixer bowl
- 2
Turn mixer to dough setting and add oil
- 3
Gradually add water and apple cider vinegar until mixture cleans bowl sides and forms central ball
- 4
Let machine knead dough for 2 minutes
- 5
Remove dough from mixer
- 6
For soaked version, let dough rest twelve to twenty-four hours before proceeding
- 7
Divide dough into 32 parts for small tortillas or 24 parts for large tortillas
- 8
Roll each part into ball and arrange on cookie sheet
- 9
Spray balls with oil and cover tightly with plastic wrap
- 10
For unsoaked version, let balls rest 1 hour before proceeding
- 11
Heat flat cast iron frying pan over medium heat and add small amount of oil
- 12
Oil clean, flat work surface
- 13
Roll out one dough ball with oiled rolling pin into circle approximately 1/8 inch thick
- 14
Place rolled tortilla in heated pan
- 15
Cook for about 25 seconds until several bubbles form in dough
- 16
Flip tortilla with spatula and cook other side for 15 to 25 seconds until bubbles are browned
- 17
Remove tortilla from pan and place between towels to stay warm and moist
- 18
Roll out next tortilla while previous one cooks
- 19
Repeat until all balls are rolled and cooked
- 20
Add oil to pan and rolling pin as needed
Tips
Oil your rolling pin and work surface generously to prevent sticking and make rolling easier.
Keep cooked tortillas between towels to maintain warmth and moisture for the best texture.
The soaking method improves digestibility but requires advance planning - start 12-24 hours ahead.
Good to Know
Store in zipper seal freezer bag in refrigerator up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months.
Dough can be made 1-2 days ahead and refrigerated. For soaked method, plan 12-24 hours ahead.
Serve warm, wrapped in towels to maintain moisture and pliability.
Common Mistakes
Oil work surface and rolling pin generously to avoid dough sticking and tearing.
Don't overcook tortillas to prevent them becoming brittle and dry.
Keep cooked tortillas covered with towels to prevent moisture loss.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these without a stand mixer?
Yes, mix ingredients by hand and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. The dough will be slightly stickier but workable.
What if I don't have time for the soaking method?
Skip the long rest and proceed directly to dividing after the 1-hour ball rest. You'll still get good tortillas.
How long do these tortillas keep?
Fresh tortillas keep 1 week refrigerated or 3 months frozen in sealed bags. Reheat in dry pan briefly.