Spicy Cheese Stew with a Cuban Twist

Ingredients

While Ema datshi traditionally uses Bhutanese cheese and chili peppers, Picante Queso Guiso swaps these ingredients for Cuban cheese and spices. The original dish's heat level is also toned down slightly to cater to the Cuban palate. Additionally, the use of bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes adds a Cuban twist to the stew, enhancing its flavor profile and texture. We alse have the original recipe for Ema datshi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) Cuban cheese, grated 500g (1.1 lb) Cuban cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 3 tomatoes, diced 3 tomatoes, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 14g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced bell peppers and diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. 6.
   Gradually add the grated Cuban cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the stew thickens.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Serve the Picante Queso Guiso hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cuban cheese — Opt for a semi-hard cheese like Queso Blanco or Queso de Bola for the best melting consistency.
• Bell peppers — Use a combination of red and green bell peppers to add color and flavor to the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chili peppers according to your preference.
• Serve the stew with crusty Cuban bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• For a heartier version, add cooked chicken or shrimp to the stew.

Serving advice

Serve the Picante Queso Guiso as a main dish accompanied by white rice and a side of fried plantains. The stew pairs well with a refreshing mojito or a glass of chilled pineapple juice.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of paprika and a sprig of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color. Serve it in individual bowls or a large communal dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the vegetables and melted cheese to shine through.