Spicy Jalapeño Cheese-Stuffed Tortillas (Jalapeño Popper Quesadilla for normal people)

Just a typical PNW take on Jalapeño Poppers made into a Quesadilla.

Whether you follow me for tech or food, you'll love these if you like spice.

Whether you follow me for tech or food, you'll love these if you like spice. And if you want them exactly how I eat them, make sure to include the optional ingredients below.

Versatile Ways to Use This Jalapeño Cheese Mixture:

As engineers, we need to be willing to always try different things, embrace the new, and constantly learn. Just like in our work, where innovation and experimentation lead to breakthroughs, the kitchen is a place where you can discover amazing combinations by being adventurous.

For example, if you make this cheese mixture exactly how I do, you'll find that the combination of Asian chilis and spices with cream cheese and cheddar creates a silky, smooth texture that stays even after cooling. It's a surprising yet delightful outcome that you might not expect until you try it.

If you're feeling particularly adventurous, here's a twist that will blow your mind:

- Ramen Upgrade: After cooking your ramen, stir in a tablespoon or two of this cheese mixture. It may sound unconventional, but the creamy, spicy cheese melds beautifully with the broth, much like the magic that happens when you add American cheese to ramen.

- Peanut Sauce Fusion: Combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoons oyster or fish sauce, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, and 1 cup melted peanut butter. Mix it with as much of this cheese mixture as you like, and you'll create the creamiest, most flavorful peanut sauce with a kick. Eliminate the jalapeños if you prefer a smooth texture and add crushed peanuts or use crunchy peanut butter for an extra crunch.

- As a Dip:

- For Crackers or Chips: Add 1 cup of sour cream to the jalapeño cheese mixture to thin it out, transforming it into a creamy, spicy dip that pairs perfectly with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.

- Spicy Bites:

- Form Balls: Shape the mixture into small balls, freeze them until firm, then bread and fry for delicious, crispy spicy bites. Perfect as an appetizer or snack!

- Marinade or Sauce:

- For Meats or Tacos: Thin out the mixture with 2 cups of sour cream to create a zesty marinade for meats or a flavorful sauce for your tacos. The spice blends out as it's stretched, adding just the right amount of kick.

- For Asian Foods: Believe it or not, thinning this mixture with 2 cups of sour cream and 1 cup of mayonnaise makes an incredible sauce for egg rolls and other Asian dishes. The spice mellows as it’s stretched, creating a balanced, flavorful dip.

- Creative Uses:

- Sandwich Spread: Use it as a spicy spread for sandwiches or burgers.

- Stuffed Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with the mixture and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

- Pizza Topping: Spread a thin layer on your pizza dough before adding your usual toppings for a spicy, cheesy twist.

Don't be afraid to explore and innovate, whether in your engineering projects or your cooking. You might discover something incredible along the way!

Whether you follow me for tech or food, you'll love these if you like spice. And if you want them exactly how I eat them, make sure to include the optional ingredients below.

Ingredients:

- 2-3 Jalapeños: (Adjust to taste) Puréed, minced, or chopped—grill them first for extra flavor if desired.

- 2 blocks (16 oz) cream cheese

- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

- 1 tablespoon garlic powder

- 1 tablespoon onion powder

- 2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce (or substitute with barbecue sauce for a sweeter kick)

- 1 teaspoon cumin

- 1-2 teaspoons taco seasoning (optional)

- Tortillas of your choice: Tomato basil Net Carb 0 tortillas recommended.

- Butter or oil for toasting (optional)

- Garlic butter (optional, for brushing the outside of the tortilla)

Optional Ingredients (for the exact way I eat them):

- 2 tablespoons Sriracha mayo

- 2 tablespoons chili oil

- 1 tablespoon Asian chili paste

- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

- 1 tablespoon smoked chipotle powder

- 1 teaspoon sesame oil

- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Jalapeños:

- If using fresh jalapeños, purée, mince, or chop them as desired. For added depth of flavor, grill the jalapeños first, then blend or process them until smooth.

2. Make the Cheese Mixture:

- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cream cheese and shredded cheddar.

- Microwave the cheeses until melted and smooth, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even melting.

- Once melted, mix in the jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce (or barbecue sauce), cumin, and taco seasoning (if using).

- For the exact flavor: Add Sriracha mayo, chili oil, Asian chili paste, smoked paprika, smoked chipotle powder, sesame oil, and fresh basil. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

3. Prepare the Tortillas:

- Choose your favorite tortillas—tomato basil Net Carb 0 tortillas are recommended.

- If you prefer a buttery finish, brush the outside of each tortilla with a mixture of melted butter and garlic. Alternatively, you can cook them plain or with a bit of oil in the skillet.

4. Assemble and Cook:

- Spread the jalapeño cheese mixture onto one side of each tortilla. Use as much filling as you like.

- Fold the tortilla over the filling.

- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. If using garlic butter, add it to the skillet or brush it on the outside of the tortilla.

- Toast the tortilla on each side until golden brown and crispy, flipping carefully to avoid spilling the filling.

5. Serve:

- Once toasted to your liking, remove from the skillet and enjoy immediately.