Quesadillas I

Quesadillas I Recipe - Authentic Mexican Dish with Chihuahua Cheese and Salsa

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Quesadillas are a popular Mexican dish that consists of a tortilla filled with cheese and other ingredients, then folded in half and cooked until crispy. They are a delicious and versatile meal that can be customized with a variety of fillings to suit your taste preferences.

History

Quesadillas have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with the first known recipe dating back to the 16th century. Originally, quesadillas were made with just cheese and tortillas, but over time, various fillings such as meats, vegetables, and beans have been added to create different flavor combinations.

Ingredients

1 cup of shredded Mexican chihuahua, monterey jack, pepper jack, or brick cheese
1 minced green onion
1 – 3 tbsp of canned chopped green chilies (to taste)
4 x 8 inches of flour tortillas
chunky salsa, for topping or dip

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine the cheese, green onion, and chilies; set aside.
Spray a medium skillet with nonstick cooking spray and place it over medium heat.
Once hot, add 1 tortilla and sprinkle it with one-fourth of the cheese mixture.
When the cheese starts to melt, approximately 1 minute, fold the tortilla in half.
Continue cooking until lightly browned and crisp on both sides, about 1 minute.
Transfer the tortilla to a cutting board.
Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Cut the tortillas into 4 wedges using a knife or pizza cutter and serve immediately with the salsa.

Variations

Add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to the filling for a protein boost.
Use different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a nonstick skillet to prevent the quesadillas from sticking.

- Cook the quesadillas over medium heat to ensure that the cheese melts evenly.

- Feel free to get creative with the fillings – try adding cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve quesadillas with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Fold the tortilla in half to create a half-moon shape before cooking.

- Cook the quesadillas until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for a softer texture.

- Substitute the chihuahua cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- Cook the quesadillas in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the quesadillas into smaller wedges for a bite-sized appetizer. - Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapenos for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve quesadillas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.

- Pair with a cold beer or margarita for a refreshing drink option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of quesadillas contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of quesadillas contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of quesadillas contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of quesadillas contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Quesadillas are a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Quesadillas contain dairy (cheese) and wheat (tortillas).

Summary

Quesadillas are a delicious and satisfying meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of calcium and vitamins A and C.

Summary

Quesadillas are a delicious and versatile meal that can be customized with a variety of fillings to suit your taste preferences. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for a party. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. I had always heard about quesadillas and how delicious they were, but I had never actually tried to make them myself. It was a sunny afternoon when my neighbor, Mrs. Ramirez, invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of sizzling cheese and meat. Mrs. Ramirez was busy flipping the quesadillas on the stove, her face beaming with pride.

"Come sit down, dear," she said, motioning for me to take a seat at the table. "I want to show you how to make these delicious quesadillas."

I watched in amazement as Mrs. Ramirez effortlessly assembled the quesadillas, layering the tortillas with cheese, chicken, and peppers. She then folded them in half and placed them on the hot griddle, letting them cook until the cheese was melted and the tortillas were crispy.

As we sat down to enjoy our lunch, Mrs. Ramirez told me about how she had learned to make quesadillas from her own grandmother. She explained that the secret to a perfect quesadilla was in the balance of flavors and textures – the gooey cheese, the tender meat, the crunchy vegetables.

After that day, I couldn't get the taste of Mrs. Ramirez's quesadillas out of my mind. I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. So, I asked Mrs. Ramirez if she would be willing to teach me her recipe. She happily agreed, and we spent the next few afternoons cooking together in her kitchen.

Mrs. Ramirez taught me everything I needed to know – from how to pick the best ingredients to how to cook the quesadillas just right. She showed me how to season the chicken, how to chop the vegetables, how to layer the cheese. She even shared with me her secret salsa recipe, a tangy blend of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

As I practiced making quesadillas on my own, I found that each batch turned out better than the last. I experimented with different fillings, adding in shrimp, beans, and even pineapple. I discovered that the key to a delicious quesadilla was not just in the ingredients, but in the love and care that went into preparing it.

Over the years, I have made quesadillas for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and parties. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and murmurs of delight. I have become known as the "Quesadilla Queen" among my friends and family, and I wear the title with pride.

But no matter how many times I make quesadillas, I always remember that sunny afternoon in Mrs. Ramirez's kitchen, where I first learned the art of making these delicious treats. I am forever grateful to her for passing down her recipe and teaching me the importance of sharing food with loved ones.

And so, as I stand in my own kitchen, flipping quesadillas on the stove, I think of Mrs. Ramirez and smile. I know that somewhere, she is looking down on me, proud of the cook I have become. And as I take a bite of the golden, cheesy goodness, I am filled with a sense of awe – at the power of food to bring us together, to create memories, and to nourish our souls.