Mexican Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

Are you looking for a recipe that combines the richness of Mexican culture and the irresistible taste of its traditional ingredients? You're in the right place! Today, we present you with the delicious Mexican Ham and Cheese Quesadillas, a dish that has transcended borders and conquered palates around the world.

Quesadillas have their roots in pre-Hispanic times, when the Aztecs and other indigenous groups began to use corn as the basis of their diet. The nixtamalization technique allowed them to create a dough that would become the base for many dishes, including tortillas. With the arrival of the Spanish, new ingredients like cheese and ham were introduced, which would eventually be incorporated into the quesadillas we know today.

When preparing Mexican Ham and Cheese Quesadillas, it is important to consider some details that we will tell you at the end of the recipe so don't miss them.

In our step-by-step recipe, we'll show you how to prepare these delicious Mexican Ham and Cheese Quesadillas, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. Join us on this culinary journey and discover how simplicity and flavor come together in a dish that is sure to be a hit at your table. Let's cook!

How to make the recipe Mexican Ham and Cheese Quesadillas

1. If we're going to use block cheese, let's take the grater and grate approximately 200 grams of cheese. If it's already grated or crumbled, make sure you have the necessary amount.
2. Next, cut the ham into strips or cubes, depending on your preference. Set it aside.
3. Proceed to cut the onion into rings or thin strips and, if you are going to use cilantro, chop it finely.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil or butter.
5. Once the pan is hot and the oil or butter has melted, let's place a tortilla in the pan and give it a few seconds to heat up.
6. After a few seconds, add a generous portion of grated or crumbled cheese on half of the tortilla.
7. Add some slices or cubes of ham on the cheese, followed by the cut onion and a little chopped cilantro, if you decide to use it.
8. Carefully, fold the tortilla in half, covering the ingredients with the other half of the tortilla, to give it the shape of a quesadilla.
9. Cook the quesadilla on both sides until the cheese is completely melted and the tortilla has a golden color and is slightly crispy. Repeat this process with the other tortillas.
10. Remove the quesadilla from the pan and place it on a plate. You can cut it into triangles if you wish. Continue with the other tortillas until you have all the quesadillas ready.
11. Serve the quesadillas hot, accompanied by your favorite sauce if you prefer.

Notes and Tips

Tortillas: Experiment with different types of tortillas, such as corn or wheat flour, to find the texture you like the most. Make sure the tortillas are fresh and soft so they don't break when you fold them.

Don't overload: Don't put too much filling in the quesadillas, as it could make it difficult for them to brown evenly and for the cheese to melt properly. Use a moderate amount of ingredients to ensure everything cooks correctly.

Cook over medium heat: Cook the quesadillas over medium heat to make sure the cheese melts completely and the tortilla browns without burning.

Customize the filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as mushrooms, spinach, peppers, or even pineapple, to give your quesadillas a unique touch.

Keep the quesadillas warm: If you're preparing several quesadillas and want to keep them warm while you finish cooking, put them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) on a rack to maintain their crispy texture.

Accompaniments: Serve the quesadillas with your favorite sauces and garnishes, like guacamole, tomato sauce, sour cream, or pico de gallo.