Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips

Mexican Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips Recipe

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips is a popular appetizer that is perfect for parties and gatherings. This creamy and cheesy dip is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to be a hit with your guests.

History

The origins of melted cheese dip are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico, where cheese is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of melted cheese and tortilla chips is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of grated Monterrey jack cheese
0.25 cup of all purpose flour
1.33 cups of beer
0.5 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
4 tsp of minced jalapeño chiles
blue corn tortilla chips

How to prepare

Place the cheese in a large bowl.
Add the flour and toss to coat.
Bring the beer to a boil in a heavy, large saucepan.
Reduce the heat to low.
Add a handful of cheese to the beer and stir constantly until the cheese melts.
Repeat with the remaining cheese, stirring until thick and creamy (do not boil).
Stir in the cilantro and chilies.
Season with salt and pepper.
Pour the mixture into a flameproof baking dish.
If desired, preheat the broiler.
Broil the cheese dip until the top is golden, about 2 minutes.
Set the dish over candles or Sterno on the serving table.
Serve with tortilla chips.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or chorizo for a heartier dip.
Stir in diced tomatoes, green onions, or black beans for added flavor and texture.
Top the dip with sliced avocado or sour cream for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a good quality Monterrey jack cheese for the best flavor and texture.

- Tossing the cheese with flour helps to thicken the dip and prevent it from becoming too runny.

- Stir the cheese constantly as it melts to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeño chiles to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips as an appetizer at your next party or game day gathering. Pair it with a cold beer or margarita for the perfect combination.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a smooth and creamy cheese dip is to melt the cheese slowly over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from clumping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Monterrey jack cheese, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese as a substitute. You can also use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the dip.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese dip ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Melted Cheese Dip in a decorative bowl or ramekin, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños. Arrange the tortilla chips in a separate bowl or basket for easy dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips pairs well with a variety of beverages, including beer, margaritas, or soda. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cheese dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips is a delicious and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and calorie content.

Summary

Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips is a delicious and indulgent appetizer that is perfect for parties and gatherings. This creamy and cheesy dip is easy to make and is sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy it with a cold beer or margarita for the perfect snack.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As I flipped through the worn-out index cards, I stumbled upon a faded, handwritten note tucked away in the corner. It was a recipe for Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips.

I couldn't remember where I got the recipe from, but the combination of gooey melted cheese and crispy tortilla chips sounded irresistible. I decided to give it a try, and I am so glad that I did. It has become one of my go-to recipes for family gatherings and parties.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me of the different places and people who had taught me how to cook over the years. I remembered my mother teaching me how to make the perfect roux for a creamy cheese sauce, my aunt showing me how to spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper, and my friend sharing her secret for getting the cheese to melt just right.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed for the recipe and got to work in the kitchen. I started by melting butter in a saucepan and adding flour to make a roux. I then poured in some milk, stirring constantly until the mixture began to thicken. Next, I added a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melted into a smooth and creamy sauce.

The aroma of melting cheese filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I couldn't wait to dig in and try the finished dish. I grabbed a handful of tortilla chips and dipped them into the warm, velvety cheese sauce.

The first bite was pure bliss. The cheese was rich and tangy, with just the right amount of spice to give it a kick. The tortilla chips added a satisfying crunch, making for the perfect pairing. I knew right then and there that this recipe was a keeper.

Since that day, I have made the Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to make it my own. Sometimes I add a handful of diced jalapenos for an extra kick, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. No matter how I choose to customize it, the dish always brings a smile to the faces of everyone who tries it.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of delicious homemade cooking. It warms my heart to think that this simple recipe, found by chance in an old recipe box, has brought so much joy to those I love.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Each recipe in my collection holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the people who have touched my life and the moments we shared around the dinner table.

And so, as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I carry with me the lessons and flavors of the past, always eager to discover new recipes and techniques to add to my repertoire. The Melted Cheese Dip with Tortilla Chips will forever hold a place of honor among my favorite dishes, a reminder of the joy that good food and good company can bring.

So here's to the recipe that started it all, the one that sparked my culinary journey and brought me closer to those I love. May it continue to bring warmth and happiness to all who enjoy it, just as it has for me. Cheers to good food, good company, and the never-ending adventure of cooking.