Did you know that you can use dry corn to make masa dough for your homemade tortillas? Masa is the essence of Mexico! It’s kinda the foundation of Mexican cooking and a lot of families still make their own to supply their daily consumption!

It’s such an amazing feeling to think that I can make these tortillas using corn that I started from seed and harvested in my urban garden! This particular variety is called Glass Gem Corn, and it makes quite a show in the garden. It’s an easy recipe, and I’ll teach you how to exactly do it.

How To Make Masa Dough For Your Homemade Tortillas

Ingredients:

  • 450 g Dry Corn Kernels
  • 1 L of water
  • 2 x TBSP food-grade calcium Hydroxide
  • Metate stone (or blender)
  • Tortilla Press (or flat weight)

Step-by-Step Procedure:

  • Remove the kernels. (Do not throw the cobs, you could use them for fire.)
  • Boil 1L of water and add 2 x tbsp food-grade calcium hydroxide
  • Add the kernel corn and boil for 30 minutes. Let it sit overnight
  • Drain and wash them in the morning
  • Grind the kernel into flour using a metate stone and roll it into a ball
  • Flat it out using a tortilla press
  • Cook 20 sec per side and add what you like

TIPS:

  • If you don’t have a metate stone, you can use a blender.
  • If you don’t have a tortilla press, just get a flat weight of parchment paper
  • Any ingredient works for stuffing. I used guacamole, vegan duck, onions, tomato, vegan cheese, and parsley!

The process of transforming corn into Masa Harina (corn flour) is called nixtamalization, and it’s a great method to soften the corn texture, vastly improve its nutritional profile, and preserve your homegrown corn for later use.

Quick Tips for Growing Glass Gem Corn

  • Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.
  • Planting: Sow glass gem corn seeds directly into the soil 3 weeks after the last frost date.
  • Spacing: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 9-12 inches apart in rows 30-36 inches apart.
  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the pollination period.
  • Fertilizing: use organic compost or compost tea
  • Harvesting: Harvest glass gem corn when the husks are dry and kernels are fully developed. Storage: Store dried cobs in a cool, dry place in a well-ventilated container.

Health Benefits of Dry Corn Kernels

1. Nutrient Powerhouse: Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium, dry corn kernels offer a nutritional boost to your diet.

2. Dietary Fiber: Rich in dietary fiber, dry corn kernels aid in digestion, promote gut health and help manage weight by keeping you feeling full for longer.

3. Antioxidant Properties: Dry corn kernels contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

4. Energy Source: The carbohydrates in dry corn kernels provide a steady source of energy, making them a great choice for active individuals and athletes.

5. Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, dry corn kernels offer a safe and delicious alternative to wheat-based grains.

Growing glass gem corn and making it into masa dough for your homemade tortillas (or any dishes) is absolutely amazing. From planting, caring, harvesting, and cooking, all these things are enjoyable experiences. Nothing can beat the happiness of growing your own plants and transforming them into something delicious. Give it a try and have this fulfilling experience as well.

Happy growing and cooking!

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