Quesadillas Fritas (Fried Cheese Quesadillas) with Mushrooms Recipe | King Arthur Baking

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons (19g) vegetable oil
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
• 1/4 cup (35g) white onion, chopped (from about 1/4 large white onion)
• 1/2 jalapeño or serrano chile, finely chopped; seeded*
• 12 ounces (340g) mushrooms, such as white buttons or cremini; cleaned and thinly sliced (about 4 cups sliced)
• 1/4 teaspoon table salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or epazote leaves, finely chopped
• 2 1/2 cups (233g) King Arthur Organic Masa Harina
• 1 2/3 cups (378g) water, warm (about 100°F)
• 2 tablespoons (5g) fresh cilantro or epazote leaves, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon table salt
• 1 cup (113g) mozzarella cheese or Monterey Jack cheese, or other mild melty cheese, shredded
• 4 to 6 cups (792g to 1188g) vegetable oil, for frying; optional
• salsa or guacamole, for serving