Authentic quesadillas in Mexico

In Mexico, the authentic quesadilla is more than just a store-bought corn tortilla. In many areas, especially in the capital and the center of the country, quesadilla is made with fresh corn masa, a dough made from nixtamalized corn ground every day.

Artisanal preparation

Fresh masa is shaped by hand or pressed to form a thick disc, often plumper than an industrial tortilla. On this disc, the chosen trim is placed, then the masa is folded on itself to create a half-moon.

Two traditional cooking styles

1. Cooked quesadilla on comal (grilled)
   • The filled quesadilla is placed directly on a hot comal, without the addition of oil.
   • This dry cooking results in a slightly crispy exterior and a soft interior.
   • It is the most common version on a daily basis in homes and markets.
2. Fried Quesadilla (“Quesadilla Frita”)
   • A popular variation is to dip the shaped quesadilla in hot oil.
   • The outside then becomes golden and crispy, while the inside remains juicy and melting.
   • Fried quesadillas are typically served at markets, funfairs, or as a street snack.
   • The fillings remain traditional: mushrooms, flor de calabaza, huitlacoche, chicharrón prensado, queso Oaxaca, etc.

Traditional toppings

The toppings vary according to the season and the terroir, but always highlight Mexican products:

• Flor de calabaza (zucchini flower)
• Huitlacoche (corn fungus)
• Fresh mushrooms
• Papa con chorizo (mashed potatoes and chorizo)
• Chicharrón prensado (simmered pork rind)
• Queso Oaxaca or queso fresco (local cheeses)

Cheese is not systematic: sometimes you have to ask for it, especially in Mexico City (the city).

Traditional service

Quesadillas are served hot, accompanied by salsa (red, green, raw or cooked). They are often eaten standing in markets or streets, in all simplicity.

In summary, authentic Mexican quesadilla is fashioned from fresh masa and can be cooked either on the comal (grilled) or fried in oil. Both methods are traditional and promote local ingredients as well as artisanal know-how around corn. This popular dish embodies the savory simplicity of Mexican cuisine.