Chorizo Fundido

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings:

• 8 ounces fresh pork chorizo
• cup sliced green onions, white and lighter green parts (green parts reserved)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 poblano chile peppers, diced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, diced
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4 ounces shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• cup sour cream

Directions

1. Place chorizo, green onions, red bell pepper, poblano chilies, and jalapeno in a cold skillet.
2. Turn heat to medium-high. As skillet comes up to temperature, break up chorizo into very small pieces.
3. Continue cooking until sausage is browned and peppers are barely cooked through, about 4 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. If sausage releases a lot of grease, mop up some with a paper towel.
5. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sausage mixture, Monterey Jack cheese, Cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
6. Transfer the mixture to a shallow, heat-proof baking dish.
7. Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the oven's broiler.
8. Broil on high until browned and bubbly, about 5 to 6 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	369	-
Total Fat	31g	39%
Saturated Fat	17g	83%
Cholesterol	84mg	28%
Sodium	640mg	28%
Total Carbohydrate	4g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Total Sugars	1g	-
Protein	19g	38%
Vitamin C	38mg	42%
Calcium	344mg	26%
Iron	1mg	7%
Potassium	281mg	6%

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Nutrition information is based on available nutrient data and may not be available for all ingredients.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Chorizo Fundido is a mouthwatering, creamy, and spicy Mexican appetizer that has won the hearts of many. This dish is characterized by its blend of melted cheeses and flavorful, spicy chorizo sausage. It is often served as a dip alongside tortilla chips, perfect for gatherings, parties, or casual meals. But where does this dish come from, and how has it evolved into the beloved snack it is today? Lets explore the origins, regional differences, and the unique elements of Chorizo Fundido.

History of Chorizo Fundido

The term fundido in Spanish means melted, referring to the melting cheese at the heart of the dish. Chorizo Fundido likely emerged from the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, where cheese and chorizo are both staples. The use of melted cheese as a dip is a common feature in Mexican cuisine, especially in regions with strong dairy farming traditions. While its difficult to pinpoint the exact origin of Chorizo Fundido, it is a perfect example of how Mexican cuisine blends indigenous ingredients like corn and chili with Spanish influences such as cured meats and cheeses. Chorizo itself, a spiced sausage, was introduced by the Spanish, and its integration into Mexican dishes has made it a central element of various appetizers and main courses.

Regional Variations

Chorizo Fundido varies depending on the region of Mexico. In northern regions, where dairy products are more abundant, the cheese used in the dish is often richer and creamier. Monterey Jack, a cheese with a smooth and mild flavor, is commonly used in these areas. In contrast, central and southern regions may feature a spicier version of the dish, incorporating local peppers like poblano or chipotle for an extra kick. The balance of spice, creaminess, and meat can vary from one home to another, making Chorizo Fundido a highly adaptable dish that showcases the diversity of Mexican cuisine.

Distinguishing Features

Chorizo Fundido stands apart from other similar cheese dips because of its distinctive combination of spicy chorizo and the use of multiple types of cheese. While cheese dips such as queso fundido are popular across Latin America, they often rely on just melted cheese, without the depth of flavor that chorizo adds. The addition of chorizo not only provides a savory and spicy punch but also creates a heartier dish that can stand alone as an appetizer or snack. Additionally, the dish is broiled to perfection, creating a slightly crispy, golden top layer of cheese, which enhances the overall texture.

Where It Is Served

Chorizo Fundido is typically served as a shared appetizer in Mexican restaurants, especially in coastal and urban areas. It is a popular choice for gatherings, whether its a family reunion, a casual get-together, or a festive celebration like the Super Bowl. In addition to tortilla chips, it is also common to serve Chorizo Fundido with warm flour tortillas, making it perfect for wrapping or dipping. The dish is especially popular in bars and casual eateries, where it complements drinks such as margaritas or beer.

Interesting Facts

• Chorizo Fundido is sometimes referred to as "Mexican fondue" due to its gooey, melted cheese texture and the combination of savory meat and cheese.
• While chorizo is traditionally made from pork, variations can include beef or even vegetarian substitutes, allowing the dish to cater to different dietary preferences.
• In many parts of Mexico, Chorizo Fundido is paired with a light salad or pickled vegetables to balance out the richness of the cheese and sausage.
• Chefs often recommend using a combination of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack, Cheddar, and cream cheese, for the perfect melt and flavor. The cream cheese adds a smooth texture, while the sharp Cheddar provides a tangy contrast to the rich chorizo.

FAQ about Chorizo Fundido

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