These instructions are meant as a quick reference. Please see the above post for detailed instructions, tips, and step-by-step pictures.

Mix the Masa

• Combine the masa harina, warm water, and salt in a mixing bowl.
• Mix by hand until well combined, about 4 to 5 minutes. The dough will start as a sticky mess and slowly come together to form a roughly shaped mass. It should be about the texture of play-doh.
• Check the hydration of the masa by ripping off a small chunk, about the size of a ping pong ball, and rolling it into a ball. Flatten the ball between your palms, there should be no cracks along the edge. If there is, add a splash more water and continue mixing until it's absorbed.

Sizing the Tortillas

• Pinch off a small chunk, about the size of a ping pong ball again, roughly 25 to 30 grams, and roll it into a ball.
• Repeat this until all the dough is divided and shaped.

Pressing the Tortillas

• Place a single dough ball in the middle of a parchment-lined tortilla press and gently press it down to flatten it slightly.
• Then use the press to shape the tortilla. Fully press until it bottoms out and hold it for a second or two.
• Open up the tortilla press and peel back the parchment paper. This should be easy.
• Then lift under the tortilla and pull the parchment paper and tortilla away from each other. It should come away cleanly.
• Let the tortilla fall into your hand and finish pulling it away from the parchment paper.

Cooking the Tortillas

• First pre-heat the cast iron griddle over medium-high heat.
• Place one or two tortillas on the hot cast iron. Depending on the size of your tortillas and the size of your pan, you may be able to fit one or two.
• After 30 seconds, flip the tortillas. The first side will not be fully cooked yet.
• Let the second side cook for another 30 seconds before flipping the tortilla for the second time. The second side will be fully cooked.
• Finally, let the first side cook again for another 30 seconds. Remove it from the heat and add it in a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm.

Keeping the Tortillas Warm

• Lay the kitchen towel out flat, stacking the cooked tortillas in the center as soon as they come off the cast iron pan.
• Wrap the tortillas by pulling each corner of the towel over them, one corner at a time. Keep the warm tortillas wrapped up at all times during cooking and serving.
• Serve warm, with your choice of taco fillings!