Larry Rameriz'S Quesadillas("Like No Others")
Crispy, cheesy quesadillas with a golden fried shell and melty interior, perfect for snack time or casual gatherings, offering a delightful crunch and savory flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening in a bowl.
- Add lukewarm water to form a soft dough.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 2 x 2-inch squares.
- Deep fry the squares in hot fat until golden brown and puffed up.
- Cut open each fried square at one end.
- Fill with shredded Cheddar or Jack cheese or a mix of both.
- Heat in the oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot with red or green salsa.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying, as this helps the quesadillas puff up beautifully. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with butter or lard for a different flavor. Experiment with different cheese types; a mix of Cheddar and Jack gives a delightful melting quality. Consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the dough for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these quesadillas hot with your choice of red or green salsa for a burst of flavor. They pair wonderfully with sour cream and guacamole on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or rice. They can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer at your next gathering, making them a versatile option in the realm of Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover quesadillas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may result in a soggy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Larry Rameriz'S Quesadillas("Like No Others") contains roughly 103 calories, with 2g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1010mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, the texture may be denser, and you might need to adjust the water amount to achieve the desired dough consistency. A blend of both flours could also work well for added nutrition without sacrificing too much texture.
What can I do if I don't have a deep fryer?
If you don't have a deep fryer, you can use a large pot or a deep skillet with enough oil to submerge the quesadillas. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough squares. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy quesadillas.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to fry, let the dough come to room temperature for easier rolling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).