Kurt
Culinary Explorer
what a yummy treat!


Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Diced tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
- Diced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Make the Roux:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Add Milk and Cream:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring constantly, until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Chipotle and Spices:
- Stir in the finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine.
- Continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the queso and season with salt if needed.
- Transfer the queso to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and diced green onions if desired.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or use as a topping for nachos, tacos, or burritos.
Tips:
- For a smoother queso, you can blend the chipotle peppers and adobo sauce before adding them to the cheese mixture.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
- If the queso becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more milk or cream until you reach the desired consistency.