| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 697 | 48.7g | 29.8g | 37.6g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2.4g | 2.8g | 38.1g | 1.6g |
Why I Love Mexican Queso Fundido with Chipotle Salsa
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the Queso Fundido with Chipotle Salsa, a dish that instantly transports me back to a vibrant Mexican fiesta. While there’s no denying the charm of my Afro-Southern fusion, the burst of flavors in this Mexican classic is a delightful adventure for the palate.
The Melting Pot of Flavours
This recipe comprises a beautiful amalgamation of various culinary elements. It begins with the hearty, full-bodied flavor of two types of cheese, Monterey Jack and Cheddar, melting smoothly together. Then it surprises your senses with the spicy punch delivered by the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The earthy fragrance of cilantro complements the garlicky undertones, creating a multiplicity of flavors that unfolds with every bite. Sampled together, these elements evoke the very spirit of Mexican cuisine into your kitchen.
The Inspiration Behind The Recipe
Interestingly, my inspiration for this recipe draws from Mexican culinary maestro Pati Jinich. Her ability to balance a wide variety of flavors into a unified, delectable whole has been instrumental in shaping my approach to this dish. Her influence has led me to explore beyond my kitchen comfort zone and embrace other global culinary treasures.
However, lest you think that I’ve entirely abandoned my roots, let me assure you that a hint of Southern-Nigerian fusion undeniably tints this Mexican classic. My Atlanta upbringing and West African origin subtly influence the way I extract and combine flavors, whether it’s the way I roast the garlic or my unique twist to the traditional salsa.
Pairing Suggestions
While Queso Fundido with Chipotle Salsa is a fine delicacy to enjoy on its own with some warm tortillas, its vibrant flavours lend it to an array of delicious pairings. It’s the perfect accompaniment to Carnitas or Baja Fish Tacos. Or if you’re in the mood to relish it Southern style, try pairing this recipe with a side of black-eyed peas and collard greens. The contrast of the mildness of the peas against the spicy tang of the salsa can be a pleasant surprise.
In conclusion, while my heart will always find its way back to the Afro-Southern fusion, this Queso Fundido with Chipotle Salsa recipe reinforces my belief in the beauty of culinary diversity. Each bite is a reminder of the vast, wonderful world of global cuisine awaiting exploration, one dish at a time.
What You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup finely chopped tomatoes
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1 pound Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 pound Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup beer
- 6 large tortillas
Method
Step One
Start by heating the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant.
Step Two
Add the finely chopped tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce to the pan. Continue to cook until the tomatoes become soft.
Step Three
Stir in the chopped cilantro and season with salt according to your preference. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
Step Four
In a large bowl, combine both types of shredded cheese with the flour. This will help the cheese melt more evenly and prevent it from clumping.
Step Five
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) In a baking dish, layer half of the cheese mixture. Pour the chipotle salsa on top, then layer the rest of the cheese mixture. Pour the beer over the layered cheese.
Step Six
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden brown.
Step Seven
While the Queso Fundido is baking, warm the tortillas either in the oven or on a stovetop. Once warmed, the tortillas can be served with the Queso Fundido.
Step Eight
Remove the Queso Fundido from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes prior to serving. Enjoy your Queso Fundido with Chipotle Salsa with the warmed tortillas.
