Appetizer > Mexican > Quesos Cheeses

Spicy Queso Flameado Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cheese and stir until melted.
4. Add the tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir until combined.
5. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve immediately.

Preparation Time and Cooking Time:

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 7 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving Size:
Makes 4 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 220
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 11g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Olive oil: canola oil or vegetable oil
- Monterey Jack cheese: cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
- Tomatoes: diced canned tomatoes
- Jalapeños: pickled jalapeños
- Green onions: diced white onion
- Cilantro: parsley
- Lime juice: lemon juice

Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or chorizo for a heartier dish
- Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein-packed dish
- Add cooked black beans or pinto beans for a vegetarian dish

Tips and Tricks:
- Use pre-shredded cheese for easier melting
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve with warm tortillas, chips, or crackers for dipping.

Garnishes:
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sliced green onions
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream

Pairings:
- Margaritas
- Beer
- White wine

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Refried beans
- Mexican rice
- Guacamole
- Salsa

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese is not melting, add a tablespoon of water or milk to help it along.

Food Safety Advice:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.

Food History:
Queso flameado is a traditional Mexican dish that is typically served as an appetizer. It is made with melted cheese and various vegetables and spices.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of spice from the chili powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or nachos.

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Region: Mexican

Taste: Spicy, Cheesy, Savory, Tangy, Smoky