Masa flour substitutes
Masa flour substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cornmeal
Same amount as the masa flour
Similar corn flour with mild, corn flavor and dense texture.
The best substitutes for masa flour are cornmeal, corn flour, or polenta.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- tortillas
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of masa flour | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cornmealtortillas | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Corn flourtortillas | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Polentatortillas | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Cornstarchtortillas | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Rice flourtortillas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Cornmeal
similar taste and texture
Similar corn flour with mild, corn flavor and dense texture.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, bread, baking
Very similar to masa flour in flavor and texture.
Corn flour
similar taste and texture
Similar corn flour with mild, corn flavor and dense texture.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, bread, baking
Very similar to masa flour in flavor and texture.
Polenta
similar taste and texture
Similar corn flour with mild, corn flavor and dense texture.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, bread, baking
Very similar to masa flour in flavor and texture.
Cornstarch
similar taste and texture
Similar corn flour with mild, corn flavor and dense texture.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, bread, baking
Very similar to masa flour in flavor and texture.
Rice flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with mild flavor and dense texture.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, bread, baking
Different flavor but similar texture and uses.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use cornmeal instead of masa flour?
Yes, cornmeal is a good substitute for masa flour. It has a similar mild, corn flavor and dense texture, making it suitable for tortillas, tamales, and other applications.
What's the difference between masa flour and corn flour?
Masa flour is made from nixtamalized corn and has a mild, corn flavor with dense texture, while corn flour is made from ground corn and has a similar mild, corn flavor. Both work well in similar applications but have different processing methods.
Can I make masa flour at home?
Yes, you can make masa flour at home by grinding nixtamalized corn. However, this process requires careful attention to soaking and grinding times and can be time-consuming.
How long does masa flour last?
Masa flour can last for several months when stored properly in an airtight container away from moisture. However, it's best to use it within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting masa flour
7 tips- Masa flour is best when used in tortillas and tamales for its authentic flavor
- Store masa flour in an airtight container away from moisture
- Masa flour pairs well with herbs, spices, and other corn-based ingredients
- For tortillas, masa flour adds authenticity and flavor
- Masa flour can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Add masa flour gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Masa flour works well in marinades, dressings, and sauces