Spiced Queso with Pico de Gallo

The Foodies' KitchenOctober 17, 2023

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An appetizer from San Antonio (Texas), the Queso – a cheesy dip is a classic on any tex-me spread. Game night? Family gathering? Friends coming over? Queso is the go-to dip to serve with nachos. This is a nice silky upgrade from the traditional melted cheese, and comes together very quickly.

For our version, we love to add a few extra bits for flavor, using Mondu’s Burrito Mix and powdered onion – as well as Pico de Gallo and Jalapeño for a nice kick. The secret here is to use cornstarch to serve as a thickening agent and a mix of evaporated and whole milk with the star of the show: Fresh shredded cheddar cheese. The flavor we got from Mondu’s Burrito Mix was perfection! Best served with your favorite corn chips.

Helga & Kitty

Spiced Queso with Pico de Gallo

Yields: 6 servings

Ingredients, for the queso:
8-oz. shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp butter
½ Tbsp onion powder
½ Tbsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground cumin
1 teaspoon Mondu Burrito mix
1 (one) 4-oz. can evaporated full-fat milk
½ cup of milk

Ingredients, for the Pico de Gallo:
¼ cup diced green peppers
1 – 2 diced tomatoes
¼ white onion, diced
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded cheese and cornstarch, stirring well to coat. Set it aside.
In a small bowl, mix the diced bell pepper, tomatoes, onion and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
In a medium pot add evaporated milk, cheese mixture and butter. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, cumin and Mondu Burrito mix. Let it all come together over medium heat, and then turn heat down to low and stir until cheese melts completely and mixture turns into a smooth cheese sauce.
Stir in the ½ cup milk. Keep in mind, cheese will thicken as it cools.
Remove from heat and serve warm with some of the pico de gallo as a garnish and your favorite corn chips.

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