Fat Free Tortillas Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)

FAQs

What is a substitute for lard in tortillas? ›

Although traditionally made with lard, these tortillas are equally delicious using butter, shortening, or vegetable oil as the fat. If you choose to use oil, add it with the water in step 3.

It depends on what kind of tortillas you want to make. Corn tortillas do not require fat, but wheat tortillas do. I guess you can use suet instead of lard, but the flavor and texture may change. You can experiment a little bit with the proportions, and check the results.

On average, a wheat flour tortilla has 237 calories and a corn tortilla 218 calories, both referred to 100 grams of product. They have 50 g carbs and 45 g carbs respectively. Now wheat tortillas have added fat to make the dough pliable and soft. This fat can be in the form of lard, shortening and sometimes milk.

Compared to corn tortillas, flour ones are higher in calories, carbs and fats and have lower total fiber. “Corn tortillas are beneficial for weight loss because not only are they fiber-rich, but they are also lower in calories and total fat compared to flour tortillas.

Vegetable oil: Substitute 7/8 cup vegetable oil for 1 cup lard. Olive oil: Substitute 1 cup olive oil for 1 cup lard.

Flour tortillas usually have higher calories and fat because of the added fat needed to make them soft and easy to roll. That being said, corn tortillas tend to be similar or lower in calories to white bread.

Much like lard, the high ratio of fat to liquid in tallow makes for a pliable dough. When rolling out these tortillas, you'll find that they're supple and easy to shape. You can use tallow tortillas anytime you crave one, though they're especially designed to go well with smoked meats, such as brisket or sausage.

Best oil for frying: If you are frying corn tortillas, corn oil is the best choice. You can also use basic vegetable oil, peanut oil, soybean oil, safflower oil, or sunflower seed oil. You want a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point. Make sure the oil is hot enough.

For most people, corn is the healthiest tortilla. They're naturally gluten-free and a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. But even within corn tortillas, there can be differences. My personal favorite was the Mi Rancho Organic Corn Tortilla due to its strong corn flavor and high nutrient density.

Tortillas can be a part of a healthy diet, including for those who are trying to lose weight by either reducing calories or cutting carbs. However, for weight-loss purposes, it's important to read the label of any tortilla package to help determine what you can eat without compromising your weight-loss goals.

Are tortillas better for you than bread? ›

Bread and corn tortillas have a very similar nutrient profile. However, if you are choosing a flour tortilla, to get the most health benefit, be sure to choose one made with whole-wheat flour rather than refined white flour. Flour tortillas do also usually contain a higher fat content, so be wary of that as well.

Turn away from flour tortillas for healthier options that are just as delicious. The most common types of tortillas you'll find in your local grocery store are flour tortillas, corn tortillas, and wheat tortillas. Of the three, flour tortillas are the least healthy.

Healthier: By making your own tortillas, you can control the ingredients, including using whole wheat or gluten-free flours, reducing sodium, or omitting preservatives. Cost-effective: Homemade tortillas are often more cost-effective than store-bought versions, especially when making large batches.

Best Lard Substitute for Regular Cooking: Shortening

Animal shortening is the best substitute for lard in regular cooking that requires standard heat (not raw or high-heat cooking). This is because it works the same way as lard, has a similar taste and mouthfeel, and can be swapped at 1:1.

Vegetable shortening is a meat-free and dairy-free substitute for lard, allowing you to serve tamales to meat eaters and vegans alike. That said, there are other substitutes for lard that will work well in tamale recipes as well, like refined coconut oil, butter, and avocado oil.

Why It Works. Back lard gives these tortillas their mild yet delicious flavor. Using both cold lard and cold water creates a more tender tortilla. Cooking the tortillas very quickly in a hot cast iron skillet ensures maximum tenderness.

Flour tortillas are central to the cuisine of Northern Mexico. Rich with lard and whole milk, these flour tortillas are airy, tender, and subtly sweet. Christian Reynoso is a freelance recipe developer with a focus on seasonal food and helping home cooks achieve restaurant-level success in the kitchen.