Masa substitutes
Masa substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cornmeal
Same amount as the masa
Similar flour with different processing.
The best substitutes for masa are cornmeal, corn flour, or masa harina, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- tortillas
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of masa | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cornmealtortillas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Corn flourtortillas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Masa harinatortillas | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Polentatortillas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Gritstortillas | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Rice flourtortillas | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Cornmeal
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different processing.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, breads, pancakes
Different processing, similar texture.
Corn flour
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different processing.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, breads, pancakes
Different processing, similar texture.
Masa harina
similar taste and texture
Same flour with different form.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, breads, pancakes
Different form, same flavor.
Polenta
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different processing.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, breads, pancakes
Different processing, similar texture.
Grits
different taste, similar texture
Similar flour with different processing.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, breads, pancakes
Different processing, similar texture.
Rice flour
different taste and texture
Different flour with different properties.
- Best for
- tortillas, tamales, breads, pancakes
Different properties, different texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use cornmeal instead of masa?
Yes, cornmeal is a good substitute for masa. It has a different processing but similar texture and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between masa and cornmeal?
Masa is made from nixtamalized corn and has a specific flavor, while cornmeal is made from ground corn. Both have corn flavor but different processing methods.
Can I use masa harina instead of masa?
Yes, masa harina can work as a substitute, though it may have a different texture. It provides similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is masa so popular in Mexican cooking?
Masa is popular because it adds corn flavor and is a key ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes like tortillas and tamales.
Tips for substituting masa
6 tips- Masa adds corn flavor and texture to dishes
- Masa can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Masa pairs well with lime, cilantro, and chili peppers
- Masa works well in Mexican and Latin American cuisines
- Masa can be used to make tortillas, tamales, and breads
- Store masa in a cool, dry place