Sauces and Dips

Here’s a delicious recipe for a Cheesey Dip—a smooth, creamy, and flavorful dip perfect for gatherings or as an appetizer. This version combines cheese with white wine for extra depth and richness.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses like Gruyère and fontina)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the Roux:
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the flour is lightly golden (this helps remove the raw flour taste).
2. Add Wine and Milk:
   Gradually whisk in the white wine, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Then add the milk (or cream), and cook until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
   Stir in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and ground nutmeg. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Cheese:
   Slowly add the shredded cheese, one handful at a time, stirring continuously. Allow the cheese to melt completely before adding more. Continue stirring until the dip is smooth and creamy.
5. Season:
   Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the dip is too thick, you can add more wine or milk to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve:
   Pour the cheese dip into a serving dish and garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread, pretzels, crackers, or vegetable sticks.

Tips:

• Cheese Choice: For a deeper flavor, you can mix sharp cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or even a touch of blue cheese.
• Wine Pairing: Use a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will come through in the dip. Avoid overly sweet wines for this recipe.
• Make Ahead: The dip can be made ahead of time and reheated over low heat. Add a splash of wine or milk when reheating to maintain the smooth texture.

This cheese dip with wine is perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to fancy gatherings!