If You Haven't Tried Oaxaca Cheese, You're Missing Out
Have you ever seen Oaxaca cheese on the menu of your favorite Mexican restaurant, or even at the grocery store? What is it anyway? Where does it come from?
We’ve created a brief guide all about this tasty Mexican cheese so you can start enjoying it yourself and cooking with it at home with confidence. Read on to learn more!
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What Is Oaxaca Cheese?
Oaxaca cheese (pronounced "wah-ha-kah,” we know you were wondering) is a tasty cheese that comes from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. It’s sometimes referred to as quesillo cheese or queso Oaxaca.
Oaxaca cheese is made from cow's milk and has a stringy and soft texture. It melts easily, making it ideal for recipes that require a gooey and melty cheese. Enchiladas, quesadillas and many popular Mexican street foods feature this creamy and delicious cheese.
Believe it or not, it’s made through the same Italian string cheese process as mozzarella cheese, so you may notice similarities in texture. Queso Oaxaca is similarly soft, white and stringy.
What Does Oaxaca Cheese Taste Like?
Oaxaca cheese has a mild and creamy flavor. It’s delicate and versatile, and it’s perfect for people who don’t enjoy stronger or sharper cheeses.
As we mentioned, it’s made similarly to mozzarella cheese. The taste is also similar, so in a pinch, you could use them interchangeably. It also tastes similar to Monterey Jack cheese, although Oaxaca quesillo cheese is a bit softer, sweeter and milder. You can still use Monterey Jack cheese as an Oaxaca replacement in many recipes.
Cooking With Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese is known for its versatility and is enjoyed both on its own and as an ingredient in various dishes. Whether used in traditional Mexican recipes or as a substitute in other dishes, it adds a creamy and stretchy element that enhances the overall flavor and texture of the meal.
As we mentioned before, it’s excellent when used in quesadillas, popular Mexican street foods and enchiladas. It adds the perfect creamy element to enchiladas verdes.
Oaxaca cheese can be used as a filling in tamales or stuffed peppers or as a topping on some tasty and melty nachos. There are so many options.
If you’re looking for new dishes that feature this delightful cheese, why not take a cooking class near you to learn from an experienced chef? From cooking classes in Miami to cooking classes in New Orleans, you’re sure to find a Mexican food expert who’s happy to help. You can also take online cooking classes so you can learn to use this cheese from the comfort of your own kitchen.
So now that you know all about Oaxaca cheese, what will you cook with it first? Go grab some from your local grocery store and start experimenting. The results will be delicious.
For even more ways to enjoy your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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