Spicy Queso Fundido: A Delicious Vegetarian Dip for Every Occasion
Prep Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 6
Queso Fundido, a decadent, bubbling cheese dip, has become a favourite in many households, especially when served as an appetizer at parties. This spicy vegetarian version, made with a combination of low-moisture mozzarella and fresh goat cheese, takes the classic dip to a whole new level.
With the richness of melted cheese and the smoky heat from poblano and serrano chiles, this dish offers the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savoury flavours.
Perfect for dipping crunchy tortilla chips, crisp radishes, and refreshing jicama sticks, this queso fundido is sure to be the highlight of any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large poblano chile, seeded and cut into ¼-inch strips (about 1 cup)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced (about 1 ¼ cups)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 1 serrano chile, thinly sliced, seeds removed if preferred (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 pound low-moisture mozzarella (such as Polly-O), cut into ½-inch cubes
- 6 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled
- Jicama sticks, radishes, and tortilla chips, for serving
Directions
- Prepare the Broiler and Skillet
Preheat your broiler with the rack set about 4 inches from the heating element. While the broiler heats up, place a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. - Cook the Vegetables
Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl it to coat the bottom. Add the poblano strips and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing them to soften. Then, toss in the thinly sliced onion and season with kosher salt. Cook until the onion becomes tender and the poblano starts to char, approximately 4 minutes. Add the serrano chile and cook for another 2 minutes until softened. - Add the Cheeses
Remove the skillet from the heat. Add both the cubed mozzarella and crumbled goat cheese into the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Stir them gently to combine. - Broil to Perfection
Place the skillet under the broiler and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and browned in spots. - Serve and Enjoy
Once your queso fundido is perfectly melted, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. Accompany the dip with jicama sticks, radishes, and tortilla chips for a variety of refreshing, crunchy dipping options.
Tips for the Best Queso Fundido
- Cheese Selection: The combination of low-moisture mozzarella and fresh goat cheese creates a wonderful balance of creaminess and tang. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or a sharp cheddar, to add more depth of flavour.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of serrano chile based on your desired spice level. You can even omit the serrano entirely for a milder version.
- Serving Ideas: This dip pairs beautifully with a variety of dippable items such as corn chips, fresh vegetables, or even warm tortillas.
FAQs
What makes queso fundido so special?
Queso fundido is a rich, indulgent dip that is both creamy and savoury, with the added complexity of smoky heat from chiles. The combination of cheeses melts to create a luxurious texture that is perfect for dipping.
Can I make queso fundido ahead of time?
While the dip is best served fresh and bubbling, you can prepare the vegetable mixture and cheese separately, refrigerate them, and then assemble and broil when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make queso fundido spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more serrano chiles or even incorporate a chopped jalapeño or two. Roasted red peppers can also add both spice and a touch of sweetness.
Is queso fundido suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This version of queso fundido is vegetarian-friendly, featuring only vegetables and cheese. Just ensure that the cheeses used are free from animal rennet if you’re aiming for a completely vegetarian recipe.
What can I serve with queso fundido?
Queso fundido pairs well with crunchy tortilla chips, jicama sticks, radishes, and even fresh veggies like carrots or cucumbers. It also goes great with warm tortillas for a delightful snack.
Conclusion
This spicy vegetarian queso fundido recipe offers an irresistibly creamy, cheesy dip with a perfect balance of smoky and spicy flavours. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or preparing for a larger celebration, this dip will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser.
It’s quick to make, packed with flavour, and, most importantly, incredibly satisfying. So gather your ingredients, fire up your broiler, and enjoy this delicious dish with your friends and family.
References