Wo-chips & Queso Side Recipe

Prep and slice tortillas

Stack tortillas and cut each into 6 wedges (like pizza). Pat wedges dry with paper towel to remove surface moisture.

Season chips

In a large bowl combine vegetable oil, kosher salt, ground cumin and smoked paprika. Toss tortilla wedges in the seasoned oil until evenly coated.

Cook chips

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tortilla wedges in a single layer (work in batches to avoid crowding) and fry, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side. Alternatively, spread wedges on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes, turning once, until crisp. Remove chips to a paper-towel-lined tray and immediately sprinkle a touch more salt if desired. Keep warm.

Sweat aromatics

In a medium saucepan set over medium heat add 1 tablespoon of the milk and the finely minced onion. Cook, stirring, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic, jalapeño (and serrano if using) and cook 30–45 seconds more until fragrant.

Build the base

Add the remaining milk and the heavy cream to the pan and bring just to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low to avoid scorching.

Melt cheeses

Lower heat to very low. Add the cream cheese in small pieces and stir until melted and smooth. Gradually add the shredded white American cheese and cheddar in handfuls, stirring constantly until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, add up to 2 tablespoons more milk to reach a dipping consistency.

Season and finish

Stir in lime juice, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Fold in chopped cilantro off heat. Keep queso warm over the lowest heat setting or transfer to a small warmed serving bowl; stir occasionally to maintain smoothness. If the queso separates or becomes grainy, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons warm milk to smooth it out.

Serve

Serve the warm queso alongside the Wo-Chips. Offer extra lime wedges or chopped cilantro if desired.