Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ripe greater plantains, peeled and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced plantains to the skillet and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the plantains for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned.
4. Remove the plantains from the skillet and set aside.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over one half of the tortilla.
6. Add a layer of cooked plantains over the cheese.
7. Sprinkle another 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the plantains.
8. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling and press down gently with a spatula.
9. Cook the quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is lightly browned.
10. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
11. Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with chopped cilantro, sour cream, and salsa.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 980mg
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Greater plantains can be substituted with regular plantains or ripe bananas.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
- Cilantro can be substituted with parsley or green onions.
- Sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt or avocado crema.
- Salsa can be substituted with hot sauce or pico de gallo.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the filling for a protein boost.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Add sliced jalapenos or diced tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor.
- Top the quesadillas with guacamole or sliced avocado before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the plantains are ripe but not overly ripe, as they will be too soft to cook.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the quesadillas from sticking.
- Don't overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to fold and cook.
- Serve the quesadillas immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Storage instructions:
Leftover quesadillas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the quesadillas in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a platter and garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.
Garnishes:
Chopped cilantro, sour cream, salsa, sliced jalapenos, diced tomatoes, guacamole, sliced avocado.
Pairings:
Serve the quesadillas with a side of black beans and rice, or a simple green salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Black beans and rice, green salad, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the quesadillas are sticking to the skillet, add a little more oil to the pan.
- If the cheese is not melting, cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to help the cheese melt.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all cooking surfaces before preparing the recipe.
- Cook the plantains and quesadillas to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating.
Food history:
Quesadillas are a traditional Mexican dish that originated in the northern state of Sonora. They are typically made with corn tortillas and filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.
Flavor profiles:
The greater plantains add a sweet and slightly nutty flavor to the quesadillas, while the cheese provides a creamy and savory contrast. The cilantro and salsa add a fresh and zesty kick.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the quesadillas as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a party appetizer. They pair well with a variety of Mexican-inspired sides and beverages.
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Region: Mexican