Queso Flameado

I do not mention work on here too often, but today I have to tell you about the Queso Flameado we made the other day.  My regional director gave us the challenge to come up with a new "exhibition" station idea.  Something that would be cooked right in front of the guests, something quick and easy, yet tasty and cost-effective.  My idea, Queso Flameado, translated flaming queso.  (Although, this isn't a completely "new" idea, it is new to my cafe.)  My chef cooked the dish right in front of our guests and filled soft flour tortillas with the ewey-gooey cheese mixture.  YUMMY!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 C meat (fajita chicken, beef, shrimp or chorizo)
• 1/4 C veggies (grilled peppers, onions and mushrooms)
• 1/2 C shredded asadero cheese (can substitute monterey jack)
• 1 tbsp liquor (to create flame)
• 2 flour tortillas

Method:

• Saute meat and veggies in 6" saute pan
• Add cheese, stir and let melt
• Add liquor (we used brandy, but everclear works best)
• Light liquor with candle lighter (flame should extinguish after 10-15 seconds)
• Serve in flour tortillas with chips, salsa and guacamole

Finished Product:

Recipe can also be prepared in the oven if cooking for a large group of people.  Just layer meat, veggies and cheese, meat, veggies and cheese.  Bake for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees or until bubbly.  Once out of the oven, you can add liquor on top and light with a candle lighter for a little show!  Enjoy!