Queso Fundido Fiesta

Ingredients

• 2 cups (200g) Oaxaca cheese, shredded 2 cups (200g) Oaxaca cheese, shredded
• 1 cup (100g) Chihuahua cheese, shredded 1 cup (100g) Chihuahua cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) tequila 1 tablespoon (15ml) tequila
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips or warm tortillas, for serving Tortilla chips or warm tortillas, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 4g, 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. 2.
   In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the shredded Oaxaca and Chihuahua cheeses to the skillet, along with the tequila. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and well combined with the tequila.
4. 4.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 diced tomatoes, jalapenos, and fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with tortilla chips or warm tortillas for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Oaxaca cheese — Make sure to shred the Oaxaca cheese before using it in the recipe to ensure even melting and distribution throughout the dish.
• Chihuahua cheese — Similarly, shred the Chihuahua cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
• Tequila — Choose a good-quality tequila that you enjoy drinking, as it will contribute to the overall flavor of the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced avocado, pickled onions, or crumbled Mexican chorizo for added variety.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of jalapeno or remove the seeds before chopping.
• To achieve a crispy golden top, broil the dish for a couple of minutes after baking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.

Serving advice

Serve the Queso Fundido Fiesta as a warm and inviting appetizer at your next gathering. Place the dish in the center of the table, surrounded by a colorful array of tortilla chips or warm tortillas. Encourage your guests to dip and savor the cheesy goodness, and don't forget to provide extra napkins for those delightful, gooey cheese strings.

Presentation advice

For an eye-catching presentation, use a shallow, oven-safe dish that showcases the golden-brown top of the melted cheese. Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and arrange the diced tomatoes and jalapenos in an appealing pattern. Serve the dish alongside a vibrant salsa or guacamole to add a pop of color to the table.