Malaysian Chinese Style Cheesy Melt

Ingredients

In this Malaysian Chinese adaptation of queso fundido, we incorporate Malaysian Chinese spices and flavors to create a unique twist. The original Mexican dish is typically made with Mexican cheeses like Oaxaca or Chihuahua, while our version uses a combination of Malaysian Chinese cheeses such as mozzarella and cheddar. Additionally, we incorporate Malaysian Chinese spices like ginger, garlic, and chili to add a touch of heat and complexity to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Queso fundido, so you can check it out.

• 300g (10.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded 300g (10.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 200g (7 oz) cheddar cheese, shredded 200g (7 oz) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, grated 1 thumb-sized ginger, grated
• 2 red chilies, finely chopped 2 red chilies, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 spring onion, finely chopped (for garnish) 1 spring onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
• 1 red chili, sliced (for garnish) 1 red chili, sliced (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped red chilies. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the spices are fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and well combined with the spices.
4. 4.
   Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. 5.
   Transfer the cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. 6.
   Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped spring onions and sliced red chili.
7. 7.
   Serve the Malaysian Chinese Style Cheesy Melt hot with toasted baguette slices or crispy tortilla chips.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mozzarella cheese — Use low-moisture mozzarella for better melting and avoid using fresh mozzarella.
• Cheddar cheese — Opt for sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor profile.
• Red chilies — Adjust the amount of chilies according to your spice preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a dash of white pepper or a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder to the cheese mixture.
• Experiment with different Malaysian Chinese spices like star anise or Sichuan peppercorns to add a unique twist to the dish.
• Serve the Cheesy Melt with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi for a tangy contrast.

Serving advice

Serve the Malaysian Chinese Style Cheesy Melt as an appetizer or party snack. Provide small bowls or plates for guests to scoop out the melted cheese and pair it with toasted baguette slices or crispy tortilla chips.

Presentation advice

Present the Cheesy Melt in an oven-safe dish, ensuring the golden and bubbly top is visible. Garnish with freshly chopped spring onions and sliced red chilies for a pop of color.