Mexico has a rich and diverse cheesemaking tradition, with hundreds of different types of cheese produced throughout the country. From fresh and mild cheeses like queso fresco to aged and flavorful cheeses like cotija, there is a Mexican cheese to suit every taste.
Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular Mexican cheeses:
Queso fresco
Queso fresco is a fresh, white cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a mild flavor and a soft, crumbly texture. Queso fresco is a popular ingredient in many Mexican dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
Queso añejo
Queso añejo is an aged version of queso fresco. It has a sharper flavor and a more crumbly texture than queso fresco. Queso añejo is often used in grated form, as a topping for tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican dishes.
Queso panela
Queso panela is a semi-firm cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a mild flavor and a slightly spongy texture. Queso panela is often grilled or fried, and it is also a popular ingredient in soups and stews.
Queso manchego
Queso manchego is a semi-hard cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a firm, creamy texture. Queso manchego is often eaten on its own, or it can be used in sandwiches and other dishes.
Requesón
Requesón is a Mexican cottage cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a mild flavor and a soft, creamy texture. Requesón is often eaten on its own, or it can be used in salads, dips, and other dishes.
Queso Oaxaca
Queso Oaxaca is a semi-hard, string cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a mild flavor and a slightly elastic texture. Queso Oaxaca is often used in melted dishes, such as quesadillas and enchiladas.
Queso cotija
Queso cotija is a dry, aged cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a sharp, salty flavor and a crumbly texture. Queso cotija is often used as a topping for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes.
These are just a few of the many different types of cheese that are produced in Mexico. If you have the opportunity, be sure to try some of these delicious cheeses, especially on your travels to Cozumel! You won’t be disappointed!
