Oh my gosh, friends! Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes that always takes me back to those cozy gatherings with family and friends. I’m talking about Birria Quesadillas – a delightful fusion of melted cheese, tender birria meat, and all the wonderful flavors that make you feel right at home.
This dish isn’t just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating unforgettable moments. I can vividly recall the first time I tried birria. It was at a small taco stand during a summer trip. As soon as I sampled that savory meat with a splash of spicy salsa, I knew I had to recreate that experience in my kitchen. Let me usher you into this flavorful adventure with this incredible recipe!
What’s in Birria Quesadilla?
Cooked Birria Meat: You can use either beef or goat for this dish, but be warned! Once you try it, you might just find yourself dreaming of birria at odd hours. The meat should be tender and flavorful, having been braised or stewed to perfection.
Flour Tortillas: These are the foundation of any quesadilla. I prefer using large flour tortillas because they’re easy to fold and get crispy. Corn tortillas can work too, but they’ll be a little more delicate.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: As melty goodness is a must, I opt for mozzarella since it gives you that gooey stretch we all crave. However, if you’re feeling fancy, you can use Oaxaca cheese for a more traditional taste.
Cooking Oil: A little oil goes a long way in creating that golden, crispy exterior. I usually use vegetable or canola oil, but feel free to experiment if you’ve got another type on hand!
Broth (optional): Adding a cup of beef or chicken broth on the side for dipping not only elevates the dish but also adds that comforting element we all love.
Is Birria Quesadilla Good for You?
Now, I wouldn’t exactly call these quesadillas health food, but hey, we’re living a little, right?
Cooked Birria Meat: This is the star of our dish packed with protein and essential nutrients. Just make sure to keep your portion sizes in check, especially if you go a bit wild on those toppings!
Cheese: Mozzarella is lower in fat than some other cheeses, but it’s still a substantial calorie contributor. If you’re feeling indulgent, go for it! If not, you can always cut back on the quantity or opt for a lighter cheese blend.
Tortillas: While flour tortillas are delicious, they can also be higher in carbs. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try using whole wheat tortillas or even low-carb options available in the market.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked birria meat (beef or goat), shredded
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Oaxaca cheese)
– 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
– 1 cup beef or chicken broth (optional, for dipping)
How to Make Birria Quesadilla?
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle a generous amount of cheese evenly over half of the tortilla.
3. Add a layer of shredded birria meat on top of the cheese. Fold the tortilla over to create a half-moon shape.
4. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt, then carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the other side is golden and crispy. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
5. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas, using the remaining oil as necessary.
6. Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve hot.
Savory Suggestions for Birria Quesadillas
– Don’t skip out on the sauces! Serve your birria quesadillas with an array of salsas – go for red and green, or even a creamy white sauce if that’s your jam!
– Toppings galore – you can never go wrong with some sour cream, guacamole, and fresh toppings like chopped onions and cilantro to add that burst of flavor.
– Feeling adventurous? Go ahead and toss in some sliced jalapeños or sautéed onions for a kick!
I can’t tell you how much joy these Birria Quesadillas bring to my kitchen. They are perfect for a cozy night in, a gathering with friends, or even as a fancy snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Trust me, once you get a taste, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your house, too! I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t be shy—share your birria adventures!
