Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's both quick and easy to make? Look no further than these crispy picadillo quesadillas! This recipe elevates the classic quesadilla with a vibrant, savory filling of seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and sweet peppers, reminiscent of the beloved Cuban picadillo. The combination of textures – the crispy, golden-brown tortilla contrasting with the tender picadillo – creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Forget bland cheese quesadillas; this recipe is bursting with exciting flavors and aromas that will tantalize your taste buds.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey quesadilla overflowing with perfectly spiced picadillo. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a fun lunch, or even a satisfying snack. Ready to transform your quesadilla game? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions to create these irresistible Crispy Picadillo Quesadillas.
Tools Needed
- Saucepan
- Blender
- Pan
Ingredients
- Oil
- Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped
- Ground beef or pork: 500g
- Ground black pepper: a pinch
- Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and diced
- Carrots: 5, peeled and chopped
- Tomatoes: 4, cut in half
- Onion: 1/4 medium, chopped
- Water
- Bay leaves
- Marjoram
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Granulated broth or salt
- Warm tortillas
- Lettuce
- Cream
- White cheese
- Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Picadillo
- In a saucepan, add oil and sauté 2 chopped garlic cloves.
- Add 500g of ground beef (or pork, or a mix). Season with a pinch of black pepper.
- Add 2 large diced potatoes and 5 chopped carrots to the pan.
- Blend 4 halved tomatoes, 1/4 chopped onion, and water in a blender.
- Add the blended tomato mixture to the saucepan. Strain it before adding.
- Add bay leaves and marjoram to the saucepan. Stir well.
- Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and granulated broth (or salt to taste).
- Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the stew is ready. Remove bay leaves.
Step 2. Assemble and Cook the Quesadillas
- Heat oil in a pan. Place a tortilla, add some picadillo (avoid excess liquid), fold into a quesadilla, and fry until golden brown.
Step 3. Drain Excess Oil
- Place fried quesadillas on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
Step 4. Serve and Customize
- Add lettuce, cream, cheese, and sauce as desired.
Read more: Crispy Fish Tacos Recipe: Easy Fried Tilapia Tacos
Tips
- This dish is very filling and budget-friendly. Feel free to add peas if desired.
- Don't overload the tortillas with picadillo to prevent them from breaking during frying.
- Customize your quesadillas with your favorite toppings.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use different meat in the picadillo?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded pork can be substituted for the ground beef. Adjust seasonings to your preference.
2. What can I do if my quesadillas aren't browning properly?
Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the quesadillas. Use a little more oil if needed, and cook them for a slightly longer time, flipping as necessary, until golden brown and crispy.
These crispy picadillo quesadillas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite. From a quick weeknight meal to a fun appetizer, this recipe is incredibly versatile and sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!