Homemade Queso Fundido

How to make Homemade Queso Fundido

Ingredients:

1/2 pound chorizo, casings removed

1 small onion, diced

1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

1 tomato, seeded and diced

1 clove garlic, chopped

1/4 cup tequila (or mexican beer) (optional)

1/2 pound monterey jack cheese, shredded

2 tablespoon cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

Cook the chorizo in a pan over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the onion, jalapeno and tomato and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about a minute.

Add the tequila, deglaze the pan and cook until most of the moisture is gone, about 2 minutes.

Sprinkle on the cheese and cook, stirring, until it melts, about 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition Information:

Nutrition Facts for Chorizo Queso Dip (Per Serving):

Frequently Asked Questions:

What type of chorizo is best for this recipe?

You can use either Mexican chorizo (fresh and crumbly) or Spanish chorizo (cured and sliced). Mexican chorizo typically needs to have its casings removed before cooking, as mentioned in the recipe.

Is it necessary to use tequila or beer in the recipe?

The tequila or beer is optional and adds flavor to the dip.

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can omit it or consider using a non-alcoholic substitute like chicken broth or water.

Can I make this dip ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.

Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

What are some good dipping options for this queso dip?

Tortilla chips, tortilla strips, vegetable sticks (like bell peppers or celery), and even warm bread are excellent options for dipping into this flavorful queso dip.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the dip?

Absolutely, you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeno and whether you include the seeds or not.

For a milder dip, you can also consider using green bell peppers instead of jalapenos.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the dip?

Certainly! You can add ingredients like cooked black beans, corn, or even cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to make the dip heartier and more substantial.

Is there a substitute for monterey jack cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use other meltable cheeses like cheddar, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a convenient substitute.

Just be sure to drain them before adding to the recipe to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the purpose of deglazing the pan with tequila or beer?

Deglazing helps to lift any flavorful bits stuck to the pan after cooking the chorizo, adding depth to the dip’s flavor profile.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this dip?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using meatless chorizo alternatives or omitting the chorizo altogether.

Increase the quantity of vegetables and consider adding beans for extra texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the dip?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

Cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend could work well in place of monterey jack.

Is it necessary to remove the casings from the chorizo?

Yes, for this recipe, it’s important to remove the casings from the chorizo before cooking.

This allows the sausage to cook and crumble properly.

Can I omit the alcohol from the recipe?

Absolutely, you can omit the tequila or Mexican beer if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

You can also consider using non-alcoholic substitutes like chicken broth or water.

What’s the purpose of deglazing the pan?

Deglazing with tequila or beer helps release and incorporate flavorful bits stuck to the pan after cooking the chorizo.

It enhances the taste of the dip.

How do I know when the dip is ready after adding the cheese?

The dip is ready when the cheese has melted completely and formed a creamy mixture with the other ingredients.

Stirring constantly helps ensure even melting.

What can I serve with this queso dip?

Serve the dip with tortilla chips, toasted bread, vegetable sticks, or even as a topping for tacos and nachos.