Chorizo Queso Dip | Gluten Free & More

If you’re anything like me, Mexican food holds a special place in your heart. There’s something about the vibrant flavors and rich spices that just hits the spot every time. Seriously I could eat Mexican food every day!

At one of my favorite Mexican restaurants, I often start the meal with queso topped with chorizo. It is so good I decided to try my hand at making chorizo from scratch.

Making your own might sound intimidating, but it’s actually super easy and incredibly rewarding. The secret to amazing homemade chorizo lies in the blend of spices and a few key ingredients.

To get started, you’ll need some dried ancho and chili de arbol peppers. Toast them in a dry skillet until they’re fragrant, then soak them in boiling water to soften them up. Once they’re tender, blend them with garlic, onion, and some Marukan Seasoned Gourmet Rice Vinegar which adds a subtle tanginess that compliments the heat and smokiness, along with smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. This spice mix is the heart and soul of your chorizo.

Mix the spice blend with ground pork, making sure every bit of meat is coated in that flavorful goodness. Cook it up in a skillet until it’s nice and crispy, and voilà—you’ve got homemade chorizo that’s bursting with flavor.

Making chorizo from scratch not only gives you control over the flavors and ingredients but also adds a personal touch to your cooking that can’t be beaten. Plus, it’s a fun and satisfying process that makes the end result even more delicious.

Next comes the queso, this is a super easy recipe. Melt some cream cheese and white American cheese with a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, then stir in your homemade chorizo. Top it off with sliced green onions, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up with a big bowl of tortilla chips, and you’re ready to dip into cheesy, spicy heaven.

As delicious as this dip is (and believe me it is!), there are lots of ways to use homemade chorizo. Here are a few ideas:

Breakfast Tacos

Start your day off right with some hearty breakfast tacos. Sauté your homemade chorizo with scrambled eggs and top with avocado, fresh salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese. Wrap it all up in a warm gluten-free tortilla, and you’ve got a breakfast that packs a punch.

Chorizo-Stuffed Peppers

For a delicious and healthy meal, stuff bell peppers with a mixture of chorizo, rice, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Bake until the peppers are tender, and the filling is bubbling. Top with a bit of melted cheese and fresh cilantro for an irresistible dish.

Chorizo and Potato Hash

This is a fantastic comfort food option. Cook diced potatoes until crispy, then add chorizo and onions. Top with a fried egg and a drizzle of hot sauce for a hearty gluten-free brunch or dinner option.

Chorizo Pasta

Give your pasta a spicy twist by adding chorizo to the sauce. Sauté chorizo with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, then toss with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil for a delightful meal.

Chorizo-Stuffed Mushrooms

Perfect for appetizers or a fancy snack, stuffed mushrooms are always a hit. Mix cooked chorizo with cream cheese and gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko, then fill mushroom caps and bake until golden and bubbly.

Chorizo Pizza

Spice up your pizza night by using chorizo as a topping. Pair it with roasted red peppers, onions, and plenty of cheese for a flavorful twist on the classic pie. Add a few dollops of Marukan Seasoned Gourmet Rice Vinegar for a tangy kick that complements the chorizo beautifully.

Chorizo Chili

Chorizo adds a wonderful depth of flavor to chili. Cook it with ground beef or turkey, beans, tomatoes, and your favorite chili spices. Let it simmer until all the flavors meld together for a hearty, warming bowl of goodness.

Chorizo and Cornbread Casserole

Combine the savory flavors of chorizo with sweet cornbread for a comforting casserole. Layer cooked chorizo with gluten-free cornbread batter and bake until the cornbread is fluffy and golden. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck.

Chorizo Soup

Add a smoky depth to your soups by including chorizo. It pairs wonderfully with lentils, kale, and potatoes in a hearty broth. Let it simmer until the flavors meld together and serve with gluten-free bread or corn tortillas for a satisfying meal.

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