Queso Fundido

(Mexican melted cheese appetizer)

Queso fundido is as simple as it is decadently tasty. Flavorful cheese is melted together with fragrant mushrooms, roasted peppers or other garnishes and served with fresh corn tortillas. Serve this south-of-the-border version of cheese fondue as a starter to any Mexican meal. Your guests will be singing your praises. ¡Que rico!

Image by Javier Lastras

4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

Monterey Jack cheese, shredded -- 2 cups
Roasted red pepper, cut into strips -- 1
Mushrooms, sliced thinly -- 1 cup
Butter -- 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper -- to taste
Corn or flour tortillas, warmed, or tortilla chips -- for serving.

Method

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread the grated cheese evenly over the bottom of a ceramic ovenproof dish, or cazuela. Spread the roasted red pepper evenly over the top of the cheese.
Heat the butter in a skillet or sauté pan over medium flame. Add the mushrooms and sauté until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper and spread evenly over the top of the cheese.
Place the dish in the oven and bake until the cheese is fully melted, 8-12 minutes.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately with the tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping.

Variations

Mozzarella or any Mexican melting cheese, such as asadero or Chihuahua, can be used instead of Monterey Jack.
Experiment with different toppings: chopped scallions, crumbled queso fresco, cooked chorizo, chopped serrano chilies.