Duck fat makes these thicker tortillas both flavorful and airy. At Mesa Provisions, they accompany the smoked half chicken and pinto beans, a beloved entrée that stays on the menu year-round. Steve Riley says you can make these tortillas as big or small as you like, and freeze any extras.

  • 6½ tablespoons duck fat 
  • 6½ tablespoons vegetable oil 
  • 3⅓ cups whole milk, divided 
  • 9⅓ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling 
  • 2⅛ tablespoons baking powder
  • 1⅔ tablespoons salt 

Makes 2 dozen or more, depending on size

  1. In a sauce pot, heat duck fat, oil, and 2 cups milk until just about to boil.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in 1⅓ cups chilled milk, set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, sift together dry ingredients.
  4. Slowly fold the warm liquid into the dry ingredients, until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Pull together and knead for 3–5 minutes.
  6. Divide into even balls (about golf-ball size for tacos). Cover and let rest for 45 minutes.
  7. Roll out each ball with a lightly floured rolling pin.
  8. Cook on a hot comal or nonstick pan for about 1½ minutes each side, flipping once.

This recipe originally appeared in "Deeply Rooted" by Candolin Cook.