For some, this is the most wonderful time of year. No, I’m not referring to the upcoming holidays. I’m talking about football season – a time to don our jerseys, gather 'round the TV to cheer on our favorite teams and, of course, chow down on finger foods. But this weekend, instead of tired pretzels and bland wings, impress your football fanatic friends who temp as foodies with this recipe for queso carnitas poppers from Anthony Serrano of El Palacio restaurant in Chandler.

“Everyone loves deep-fried (food) and everyone loves cheese,” he says. “It’s a winner.”

You can buy the salsa and carnitas at most Valley grocery stores, or make it at home, Serrano says. If you like your food on the spicy side, he suggests adding the optional jalapenos or another hot pepper.

But if you’re not ready tackle the recipe at home, the poppers will be available on El Palacio’s new menu debuting Oct. 31.