Rick Baylesss Queso Fundido Recipes

MELTED MOZZARELLA CASSEROLE WITH MUSHROOMS AND SMOKY CHIPOTLE CHILE (QUESO FUNDIDO)

Steps:

• The mushroom mixture: Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a large skillet (preferably nonstick), heat the oil over medium-high. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softening and beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and stir nearly constantly until they have softened and any juice they release has evaporated, about 5 minutes longer. Stir in the sliced chiles, then taste and season with salt, usually about 1/4 teaspoon. Transfer the mixture to a 9- or 10-inch shallow baking dish, Mexican cazuela or pie plate.
• Finishing the queso fundido: Very lightly dampen a clean kitchen towel. Check the tortillas to make sure none are stuck together. Wrap them in the towel, then in foil, sealing the edges tightly. Place in the oven and set the timer for 7 minutes. When the timer goes off, stir the shredded cheese into the warm mushroom mixture. Set in the oven alongside the tortillas and bake until the cheese is just melted, about 5 minutes longer. Sprinkle with the thyme or epazote and black pepper and serve without a moment's hesitation, accompanied by warm tortillas.

RICK BAYLESS'S QUESO FUNDIDO

Steps:

• Heat olive oil in large skillet. Add diced tomatoes, minced jalapenos, diced onion, and a large pinch of salt. Cook over moderately high heat, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Pour in tequila and cook, stirring frequently, until skillet looks nearly dry, about 2 minutes.
• Reduce heat to low. Add cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until fully melted, about 30 seconds.
• Quickly transfer queso to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve immediately with tortilla chips.