Quesadillas are a popular snack in Mexico which have long since crossed over and become a part of the American culinary landscape. They are also one of those recipes, which offer a nearly infinite number of possibilities. The basics are tortillas (either corn or flour tortillas are great) and cheese. From there almost any ingredient can be added and there are a lot of delicious possibilities.
This recipe is a popular regional variation on quesadillas, which you may be familiar with already if you live in a city where there are many Mexican immigrants who hail from the state of Michoacán. Floras de calabaza are squash blossoms; these flowers are used in a variety of Mexican dishes, just as they are in certain parts of the United States. The blossoms are available canned in many Mexican markets, but fresh blossoms are always preferable if you can find them.
When summer squashes are in full swing in your garden, you can substitute the blossoms from zucchini or yellow crookneck squash in this recipe. In fact, any sort of squash blossom works well in this dish, whether summer or winter varieties. Their delicate flavor works beautifully with mild, creamy Oaxaca cheese in these fantastic quesadillas.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (or if you prefer, 12 corn tortillas)
- 24 fresh blossoms or one 10-ounce can of floras de calabaza
- 4 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 4 cups Oaxaca cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp neutral flavored vegetable oil (canola is best)
- Salsa, avocado slices and lime wedges as condiments, to taste
Instructions
- This is a very straightforward recipe.
- If you are using fresh blossoms, trim off the bottoms and remove the stamens (the pollen-bearing parts on the inside of the flower).
- Place 1⁄2 cup of grated cheese in each tortilla, then the blossoms and mushrooms followed by the remaining 1⁄2 cup of cheese.
- Heat oil to medium-high heat in a skillet and fry each quesadilla until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
- Cut into wedges, serve at once with salsa, avocados, and lime wedges.
Photo Description
If you are wondering como hacer quesadillas de flor de calabaza, or how to make pumpkin flower quesadillas, as you would say in English, this is a delightful recipe to follow. Pumpkin flowers, cheese and mushrooms are used to fill the tasty tortillas. You do not have to use a rye tortilla like in the picture. You can use any type of tortilla you like. A lot of people have never tasted squash flowers before so you will enjoy trying a new flavor and your family will enjoy these simple yet delicious tortillas also.
