10 interesting facts about quesadilla (2024)

We love Mexican food. Beside the fact that it’s so tasty, we love it because there are so many interesting facts to learn about it. Let us tell you 10 interesting facts you probably didn’t know about quesadilla.

1. Quesadilla is a dish that came from Colonial Mexico.

2. The meaning of the name is “little cheesy thing.”

3. This popular Mexican dish consists of a tortilla that’s filled primarily with cheese and sometimes meat, beans, vegetables, guacamole and spices. It’s cooked on a griddle or stove. Traditionally, a corn tortilla is used, but there are quesadillas with flour tortillas as well.

4. It was originally a dessert invented by the Aztecs. They used to stuff them with squash and pumpkin and bake them in clay ovens.

8. While quesadillas in most of Mexico come with cheese, the quesadillas culture is different in Mexico City, where they do not automatically come with cheese unless you ask for it.

9. National Quesadilla Day is celebrated on September 25th.

10. One out of three people in America makes a quesadilla once a week.

If you’re one of the people who love to eat quesadilla, come visit us at Chicago Waffles and let us make a steak quesadilla or a veggie quesadilla for you. We guarantee you will love both!

I'm a culinary enthusiast with a deep understanding of Mexican cuisine, particularly the intricacies of one of its beloved dishes, the quesadilla. My expertise extends beyond just savoring the flavors; I've delved into the historical roots, nutritional aspects, and regional variations of this delectable dish.

Let's dive into the fascinating world of quesadillas with a breakdown of the concepts mentioned in the article:

Colonial Mexican Origin: Quesadillas have a rich history dating back to Colonial Mexico. The dish has evolved over time, becoming a staple in Mexican cuisine.
Etymology - "Little Cheesy Thing": The name "quesadilla" itself translates to "little cheesy thing," reflecting its primary ingredient and giving us a glimpse into the dish's character.
Ingredients and Preparation: Quesadillas are typically made with a tortilla filled with cheese and sometimes complemented by meat, beans, vegetables, guacamole, and spices. The cooking process involves using a griddle or stove, with traditional corn tortillas and occasional use of flour tortillas.
Aztec Dessert Roots: Originally, quesadillas were desserts created by the Aztecs. They stuffed them with ingredients like squash and pumpkin, baking them in clay ovens—a testament to the dish's diverse history.
Nutritional Content: Quesadillas contribute to a balanced diet, providing a good amount of carbs and fat. They are also rich in calcium and fiber, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable.
Cheese Varieties: Oaxaca cheese, similar in texture to mozzarella, has been traditionally used to make quesadillas, adding a distinct flavor profile to the dish.
Cooking Techniques: The traditional method involves cooking quesadillas on a comal, the same surface used for preparing tortillas. Variations include frying them in oil, showcasing the culinary adaptability of the dish.
Regional Differences - Mexico City: Quesadilla culture varies across regions. In Mexico City, quesadillas don't automatically come with cheese unless specifically requested, highlighting the regional nuances in preparation and consumption.
National Quesadilla Day: Celebrated on September 25th, National Quesadilla Day is an occasion to honor and enjoy this beloved Mexican dish.
Popularity in America: A staggering statistic reveals that one out of three people in America makes a quesadilla weekly, emphasizing the widespread love for this culinary delight.

If you're a quesadilla enthusiast, I invite you to Chicago Waffles, where we craft mouthwatering steak and veggie quesadillas that are sure to delight your taste buds. Your satisfaction is guaranteed!