mexican essentials: spicy nacho cheese dust

How To Make mexican essentials: spicy nacho cheese dust

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  PREP/PREPARE
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  What is it? This is my version of a really yummy spice mix that resembles what they use on Dorito nacho corn chips, but is great in other situations, sprinkle on fish, chicken, or veggies… Have fun with it.
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  What is Nutritional Yeast? It is an inactivated form of yeast commonly used to leaven bread. In other words: Dead Yeast. Dried nutritional yeast is a versatile seasoning to keep right next to the salt and pepper. Shake a dusting on toast or a bagel, use it to flavor popcorn, add it to soups before serving, replace the classic Parmesan sprinkle on a plate of pasta. Vegan-adapted recipes use nutritional yeast to add creaminess to sauces or to replicate traditionally cheese-laden dishes such as mac and cheese, au gratin potatoes, or Italian-style pasta casseroles. In this recipe, it adds a bit of earthiness to the dust, and helps to balance out the other ingredients. Note: If you are using flakes, you will need to crush them into a powder What Does It Taste Like? The words "nutty" and "cheesy" appear in nearly every description of nutritional yeast, yet the flavor does not replicate those ingredients exactly. It adds umami, that savory background favor note, often referred to as the fifth taste, and similarly to salt, enhances the overall savories of a dish, although it contains almost no sodium. The brand I use most often is, Braggs Nutritional Yeast Seasoning. I find it the most consistent in its flavor and quality. Powdered Cheese Powdered cheese comes in many flavors, Pepper Jack, Cheddar, Monterey, and the list goes on. We are using Sharp Cheddar for this recipe, and when it comes to brands, this one stands out for its flavor and consistency: Hoosier Hill Farm. You can find them on Amazon… great products and quality.
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  How to store it? Because homemade spices do not contain any preservatives, it is important to store them properly. Non-reactive (glass) containers with tight-fitting lids are a must. If I am making a dry spice, I love to use old spice bottles that I have run through the dishwasher. Dry spices should be kept in a cool space, away from sunlight (spice cabinet). If properly stored, this spice should last 6 months or more.
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  Gather your ingredients (mise en place).
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  Add all of the ingredients to a bowl.
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  Whisk until completely incorporated.
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  Store in a non-reactive jar, in a cool dry place.
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  PLATE/PRESENT
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  I like to sprinkle it on regular chips, or on chicken, shrimp, or other seafood. Goes good on veggies too. Enjoy
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  Keep the faith, and keep cooking.
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  Namasté
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