Fresh, Soft and Semi-Soft, and Semi-Hard and Hard- we’re talking about nothing but everyone’s favorite food- CHEESE. Most of the people have a pretty strong interest in eating cheese. This may be because of its rich protein content and “can’t get enough of it” taste. Sliced, shredded, or melted, nothing on earth makes an insipid dish tastes good like a hearty layer of cheese.
Whether you choose Queso Fresco, prefer Oaxaca, favor Asadero, or feel like Cotija, you should know that cheese is one of the healthiest foods out there.
Mexican cheeses have a history that starts with the Spanish conquest, as dairy products were unidentified in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. The Spanish brought dairy animals and cheese production techniques. Over the colonial period, cheesemaking was altered to suit the mixed European and native tastes of the settlers of New Spain, varying by area. This blending and contrast have given rise to a range of varieties of Mexican cheeses. Almost all Mexican cheeses are made with cow’s milk, and with some made from goat’s and sheep’s milk.
Here’s your Fresh Is Best guide to the several types of Mexican cheeses you should get to know so that you can give every boring meal an extra special kick!
Queso Fresco
The most common Mexican cheese, Queso Fresco means ‘fresh cheese.’ This Mexican cheese is traditionally made from cow milk or a combination of goat and cow milk that has been curdled with an enzyme called rennet. Queso Fresco is elastic, unaged and tastes bright, milky, mild and slightly salty. When heated, it browns and keeps its crumbly consistency. Fresco wants to be crumbled on everything from enchiladas, refried beans, egg dishes to salads & tacos.
Cotija
Elote or Mexican grilled corn on the cob served with cotija cheese and chili powder
Named after the town of Cotija in Mexico, Cotija is a Hispanic-style cheese, made mainly from cow’s milk. When Cotija is made, it is white, fresh and salty, but with aging, it becomes hard and crumbly. This cheese is extremely salty, strongly flavored, and does not really melt. It is a popular cheese in Mexico to enhance the flavor of many savory dishes. In U.S., this is one of the best enjoyed cheeses on pasta.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a string curd cheese, kneaded and sold in long ribbon rolled up in balls. It has a rich, savory mellow buttery flavor. Oaxaca actually melts when heated, and thus, it can be shredded or sliced on tostadas, quesadillas, empanadas or chile rellenos. This Mexican cheese is a great stuffing cheese in baking recipes.
Where to Find Mexican Cheeses in Vancouver
Earlier, Canadians in search of Mexican cheese had only one option: to go to Mexico. Today, cheeses made in Mexico—can be found in your region. If you’re a lover of Mexican cheeses, you’ll be happy you found Fresh Is Best. We carry most popular varieties of Mexican cheeses, from Queso Fresco, Oaxaca to Asadero and Cotija. Our products do not contain any additives or preservatives. So are you ready to experience the fresh and tasty goodness of Mexican cheeses in Vancouver? Get in touch.