Chef John's Homemade Flour Tortillas

Combine 1 3/4 cups of flour, salt, and baking powder in a large mixing container. Use a utensil to blend the ingredients until they are well combined.

Using a pastry tool, work the shortening into the dry ingredients until the mixture has a rough, crumbly texture.

Create a central area in the bowl and add hot water. Using a fork, gently mix the wet ingredients with the dry mixture until it forms a cohesive ball.

Transfer the dough to a flat surface and prepare for kneading. Continue to work the dough until it becomes smooth, pliable, and easy to shape.

If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour. To prevent sticking, lightly dust your work surface with flour.

Cover the dough with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. This will help the dough relax and become easier to work with.

Divide the dough into eight equal portions. Cover each portion until you are ready to use it. Using your hands, roll out each dough ball into a thin circle.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until it begins to bubble. Flip the tortilla over and cook for an additional 1 minute, before flipping it again and cooking for another minute. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas.