Introduction
Chili con Queso, often referred to simply as "queso," is a classic Mexican dish loved for its smooth, cheesy texture and hint of spice. Traditionally made with melted cheese and chili peppers, this dish is commonly served as a dip for tortilla chips or drizzled over tacos and other Mexican dishes. It’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or a delicious snack.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
Instructions
-
Prepare the base:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, jalapeño peppers, and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
-
Add the tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Melt the cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Pour in the milk (or cream) slowly as you stir, ensuring the cheese melts smoothly.
-
Season the queso:
- Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the queso reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
-
Serve immediately:
- Transfer the queso to a serving dish, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm with tortilla chips.
Health Note
- Moderation is key: Chili con Queso is high in fat and sodium due to the cheese content, so enjoy in moderation.
- Lighter version: Use reduced-fat cheese and substitute milk for heavy cream to lower the fat content.
- Boost nutrition: Add more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or tomatoes, to increase fiber and vitamins.
How to Enjoy
- Serve hot: Chili con Queso is best enjoyed warm as a dip with tortilla chips.
- Drizzle over dishes: Use it as a topping for nachos, tacos, or burritos to add a cheesy, spicy kick.
- Healthy options: For a lighter snack, serve with vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips for dipping.
Tip
- Keep queso warm: Use a slow cooker on low heat or a warmed dish over a flame to prevent the cheese from hardening.
- Adjust texture: If the queso thickens, stir in a little milk to smooth it out.
- Spice it up: Add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
