Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/3 cup hot water, or as necessary

Instructions

1. Combine the flour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Add the shortening and hot water, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into 16 pieces and shape each into a ball (these are called testales). On a floured surface, using a floured rolling pin, roll out each ball to a 6-inch circle.
3. Heat a griddle until hot. Place a tortilla on the griddle and cook until the bottom is lightly browned in spots, 1 to 2 minutes; the tortilla will puff up. Turn and cook until lightly browned in spots on the second side. Place in a towel-lined basket and cover with the towel to keep warm while you cook the remaining tortillas. Serve immediately.
4. Variation: For extra flavor and crunch, add 1 cup finely chopped pecans to the dough, mixing thoroughly.
5. For extra flavor and crunch, add 1 cup finely chopped pecans to the dough, mixing thoroughly.