Puerto Rican Chinese Queso Fundido

Ingredients

In this Puerto Rican Chinese adaptation of Queso Fundido, we incorporate elements from both Puerto Rican and Chinese cuisines. The original Mexican dish is traditionally made with Mexican cheeses, such as Oaxaca or Chihuahua, and flavored with Mexican spices like cumin and chili powder. However, in this version, we use a combination of Puerto Rican and Chinese cheeses, such as Queso de Bola and Chinese white cheese, and infuse the dish with tequila for an added depth of flavor. The spices are also adjusted to include Puerto Rican and Chinese seasonings, creating a unique fusion of tastes. We alse have the original recipe for Queso fundido al tequila, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) Queso de Bola, shredded 2 cups (240g) Queso de Bola, shredded
• 1 cup (120g) Chinese white cheese, shredded 1 cup (120g) Chinese white cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) tequila 1 tablespoon (15ml) tequila
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon (5g) Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon (5g) Chinese five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) adobo seasoning 1 teaspoon (5g) adobo seasoning
• 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder 1 teaspoon (5g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) onion powder 1 teaspoon (5g) onion powder
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Tortilla chips, for serving Tortilla chips, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded Queso de Bola and Chinese white cheese.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, mix together the tequila, soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, adobo seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. 4.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, green onions, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
5. 5.
   Pour the tequila mixture over the sautéed vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the skillet from heat and pour the vegetable mixture over the shredded cheese. Mix well to combine.
7. 7.
   Transfer the cheese mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Serve the Puerto Rican Chinese Queso Fundido hot with tortilla chips for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Queso de Bola — Make sure to shred the Queso de Bola cheese finely for even melting and distribution throughout the dish.
• Chinese white cheese — Opt for a mild and soft Chinese white cheese, such as Queso Blanco or Queso de Hoja, for the best texture and flavor.
• Tequila — Use a good-quality tequila for the best flavor infusion. Avoid using flavored or aged tequilas, as they may alter the taste of the dish.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder on hand, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.
• Adobo seasoning — Look for a Puerto Rican or Latin American brand of adobo seasoning, or make your own by combining salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and turmeric.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeno pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tequila mixture.
• Experiment with different combinations of Puerto Rican and Chinese cheeses to find your favorite flavor profile.
• Serve the Puerto Rican Chinese Queso Fundido with a side of salsa or guacamole for added freshness.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of tequila or omit it altogether.
• Customize the dish by adding cooked and crumbled chorizo or diced cooked chicken for a heartier version.

Serving advice

Serve the Puerto Rican Chinese Queso Fundido as an appetizer or party snack. Place the hot cheese dip in the center of a platter and surround it with tortilla chips for dipping. Garnish with sliced green onions and jalapeno peppers for an extra pop of color.

Presentation advice

Present the Puerto Rican Chinese Queso Fundido in a colorful and oven-safe dish to showcase the melted cheese. Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for a vibrant touch. Serve with tortilla chips arranged neatly around the dish for an inviting presentation.