What is Masa Harina, How is it Made and Where Can You Buy It?

When you travel to Mexico, one of the first things you’ll notice is the distinctive, delicious flavor of their tortillas. This taste is unparalleled and seems impossible to replicate outside of Mexico, no matter how hard one tries. Have you ever wondered why? The secret lies in a special ingredient: masa harina. But what exactly is masa harina? Aren’t tortillas made from corn flour? Let’s unravel the mystery behind this essential ingredient.

What is Masa Harina?

Masa harina, which translates to "dough flour" in English, is a finely ground flour made from dried masa, a dough created from corn. Pronounced "MAH-sa ah-REE-nah," this unique flour is produced through a process called nixtamalization. Corn kernels are soaked and cooked in an alkaline solution, usually limewater, which softens the hulls and enhances the nutritional value. The kernels are then washed, hulled, and ground into a dough. This dough is dried and finely ground to produce masa harina, the key ingredient in authentic Mexican tortillas.

Masa Harina vs. Corn Flour

Many people confuse masa harina with regular corn flour, but they are quite different. Corn flour is simply finely ground cornmeal and lacks the nixtamalization process that masa harina undergoes. This process not only changes the texture and flavor of the corn but also makes masa harina more nutritious by increasing the availability of niacin. While corn flour is great for baking and thickening soups, it won't give you the same distinctive taste and texture as masa harina in tortillas and other traditional Mexican dishes.

How to Use and Substitute Masa Harina

Masa harina is incredibly versatile and forms the backbone of many Mexican dishes, not just tortillas. It is used to make tamales, pupusas, sopes, and more. To use masa harina, you simply mix it with water to form a dough, which can then be shaped and cooked as needed. If you find yourself without masa harina, substituting can be tricky. While cornmeal or corn flour can be used in a pinch, they won't provide the same flavor or texture. For recipes like tortillas or tamales, it's worth seeking out masa harina for the authentic experience.

Where to Buy Masa Harina

Finding masa harina is relatively easy, especially if you live in an area with a significant Latin American population. Many grocery stores stock it in the international or Latin foods aisle. Additionally, you can find it in specialty stores or online retailers. Brands like Maseca and Bob's Red Mill offer high-quality masa harina that can bring the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen.