How to make Mote de Queso

Why cooks start here

Mote de Queso is cooked the way Caribbean coast cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a colombian family cook actually puts it on the table.

Mote de Queso is a beloved dish from Colombia's Caribbean coast, where it is embraced for its comforting and hearty qualities. Traditionally, it graces the table as a centerpiece in family meals, with its roots deeply embedded in home kitchens where the salt is judged by hand and fat is used generously. This version captures the essence of how it's prepared at home, reflecting the warmth and conviviality of coastal Colombian dining. The dish is a creamy, savory blend of ñame or yam and costeño cheese, simmered gently in water or light stock until the flavors meld into a luscious, thickened broth. The addition of cilantro and onion imparts a fresh, aromatic note, while the cheese brings a delightful tanginess. Its consistency is both rich and comforting, making each spoonful a satisfying experience, perfect for sharing and savoring at a leisurely pace.