Chile con Queso

Chile con Queso Recipe from Mexico with Processed Cheese and Green Chiles

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 6 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chile con Queso is a popular Mexican dish that translates to "chile with cheese." It is a delicious and creamy dip made with melted cheese, salsa, refried beans, and green chiles. This dish is perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a tasty and easy-to-make appetizer.

History

Chile con Queso has its origins in Tex-Mex cuisine, which is a fusion of Mexican and American culinary traditions. The dish is believed to have been created in the early 1900s in Texas, where Mexican immigrants adapted their traditional recipes to include ingredients that were readily available in the United States. Over the years, Chile con Queso has become a beloved dish in both Mexican and American households.

Ingredients

4 oz (120 g) of reduced-fat processed cheese, cut into 1 inch (2.5 cm) cubes
0.33 cup (24 g) of store-bought chunky salsa
1 x 16 oz (480 g) can of fat-free refried beans
0.25 cup (34 g) of well-drained canned chopped green chiles

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients and place in a microwave-safe dish.
Microwave on high for 2 minutes.
Stir the mixture.
Continue to microwave for another 4 minutes, stirring once, until the cheese is melted and the dip is warmed through.
Serve the dip hot with fat-free or reduced-fat tortilla chips.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or chorizo for a meaty twist.
Stir in some diced tomatoes or black beans for added texture and flavor.
Top the dip with sliced jalapenos or fresh cilantro for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a high-quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to drain the green chiles well to avoid excess liquid in the dip.

- Stir the dip occasionally while microwaving to ensure even melting of the cheese.

- Serve the dip immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chile con Queso with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, or crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Microwaving is the quickest and easiest way to prepare Chile con Queso, but you can also make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker for a longer cooking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.

- Substitute homemade salsa for the store-bought variety.

- Use fresh roasted green chiles instead of canned.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chile con Queso in a decorative bowl or hollowed-out bread bowl for a festive touch. Garnish with chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Chile con Queso pairs well with a cold beer, margarita, or sparkling water with lime. It also goes well with other Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chile con Queso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chile con Queso contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chile con Queso contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chile con Queso contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chile con Queso contains approximately 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chile con Queso is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Chile con Queso contains dairy and may contain soy allergens.

Summary

Chile con Queso is a flavorful and creamy dip that is relatively low in calories and high in protein and calcium.

Summary

Chile con Queso is a delicious and easy-to-make dip that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and spicy kick, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. I was visiting my dear friend Maria in Mexico City, and she invited me over for a traditional Mexican feast. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of spices and chilies filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Maria was busy at the stove, stirring a bubbling pot of cheese and peppers. She smiled at me and said, "Helen, you have to try this chile con queso. It's a family recipe passed down through generations."

I watched as she added fresh tomatoes, jalapeños, and onions to the pot, letting the flavors meld together. The sight and smell of the dish were mesmerizing, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As we sat down to eat, Maria passed me a warm tortilla chip topped with a generous scoop of the chile con queso. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with delight. The creamy cheese, spicy chilies, and tangy tomatoes danced on my palate, leaving me craving more.

After that unforgettable meal, I begged Maria to teach me how to make her chile con queso. She laughed and said, "Of course, my dear. Cooking is all about sharing recipes and spreading joy through food."

Over the next few days, Maria patiently guided me through the steps of making chile con queso. She showed me how to choose the best ingredients, how to chop the vegetables just right, and how to simmer the cheese until it was velvety smooth.

I practiced making the dish over and over again, tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I added extra jalapeños for a fiery kick, or a dash of cumin for a smoky flavor. Each batch turned out slightly different, but always delicious.

As I perfected my chile con queso recipe, I shared it with my family and friends. They raved about the dish, saying it was the best they had ever tasted. I beamed with pride, knowing that I had learned a cherished recipe that brought people together and brought joy to their hearts.

Years passed, and I continued to make chile con queso for every special occasion. It became a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. I even entered it into a local cooking competition and won first prize, much to the delight of my loved ones.

As time went on, I collected more recipes from different places and people. Each dish had its own story and its own special place in my heart. But chile con queso remained my favorite, a reminder of my dear friend Maria and the magical moment when I first tasted her family recipe.

Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling cheese and peppers, I feel a sense of gratitude for all the recipes I have learned over the years. They have enriched my life, brought me closer to loved ones, and filled my home with warmth and laughter.

And as I take a bite of my homemade chile con queso, I know that the love and care I put into each dish will always be passed down through generations, just like Maria's family recipe. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful for every delicious moment it brings.