How to Make the Perfect 3 Ingredient Charcoal Tortillas
Mexican · Easy · 30 min · 8 servings
These 3 Ingredient Charcoal Tortillas use flour, activated charcoal, and water to create dramatically dark and strikingly beautiful tortillas that are as delicious as they are impressive. With only three main ingredients, these eye-catching tortillas are perfect for tacos, wraps, or as a unique side bread.
Why this recipe works
This 3 Ingredient Charcoal Tortillas recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 120 calories with 3g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp food-grade activated charcoal powder
- 0.75 cup warm water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, activated charcoal powder, and salt until the charcoal is evenly distributed and the flour mixture is uniformly dark. Add the olive oil and warm water, then mix and knead for 5 minutes until a smooth and pliable dough forms.
Step 2: Divide and Roll
Divide the dough into 8 equal balls. Cover them with a clean towel and let them rest for 10 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin circle approximately 7 to 8 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Cook the Tortillas
Heat a dry cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for 1 to 1.5 minutes per side until small bubbles appear and light charring spots form. Stack cooked tortillas under a clean towel to keep them soft and pliable.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- activated charcoal powder → squid ink for a briny flavored dark tortilla
- all-purpose flour → bread flour for a slightly chewier tortilla texture
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Rolling the tortillas too thick, which results in a bread-like texture rather than a thin and flexible tortilla
- Cooking on too low heat, which dries out the tortilla without creating the desirable light charred spots
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 120 calories, 3g protein, 24g carbs, 2g fat, 1g fiber.
Ready to cook?
Get the interactive recipe with adjustable servings, built-in timers, and ingredient checklist.
View full recipe →