Oaxaca cheese, also known as Quesillo or Asadero, is a stretchy, stringy, fresh cow's milk cheese from Oaxaca, Mexico. This sour, creamy cheese is frequently used as a melting cheese. It's famous for its sensitive yet bouncy texture, as well as its shape, which is a bundle of stretched and wrapped curd that resembles a ball of yarn. Oaxaca cheese, also known as quesillo, is a type of cheese that originates from the Mexican state of Oaxaca. It is a semi-soft, stringy cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a mild, slightly salty flavour. Oaxaca cheese is made by heating milk and adding rennet, which is an enzyme that helps coagulate the milk, causing it to curdle. The curd is then cut into small pieces and heated again until the whey separates from the curd. The curd is then kneaded and stretched, much like mozzarella cheese, to give it its stringy texture. Finally, the cheese is formed into balls or braids and immersed in a brine solution to enhance its flavour and preserve its freshness.
Oaxaca cheese is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine, particularly in dishes such as quesadillas, chiles rellenos, and enchiladas. It is also commonly used in sandwiches, salads, and as a topping for tacos and nachos. Its stretchy texture and mild taste make it a versatile cheese that pairs well with a variety of flavours and ingredients.
Uses Of Oaxaca Cheese
Its mild flavour and stretchy texture make it an excellent ingredient for many recipes. One of the most popular uses for Oaxaca cheese is in quesadillas. The cheese is melted between two tortillas to create a delicious, gooey filling that can be combined with a variety of other ingredients, such as beans, meat, or vegetables. The cheese's mild flavour complements the other ingredients and provides a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
Another common use for Oaxaca cheese is in chiles rellenos, which are stuffed chilli peppers. The cheese is often mixed with other ingredients, such as ground meat, rice, or beans, to create a filling for the peppers. The peppers are then battered and fried until crispy, with the cheese becoming melty and delicious in the process.
Enchiladas are another popular dish that often features Oaxaca cheese. The cheese is grated and sprinkled over the top of the enchiladas before baking, adding a rich, creamy flavour to the dish. Oaxaca cheese can also be used in salads and sandwiches, providing a mild, creamy flavour that complements the other ingredients in the dish. It can be shredded or sliced and added to salads or sandwiches for a delicious, tangy taste.
Finally, Oaxaca cheese is commonly used as a topping for tacos and nachos. The cheese is grated or shredded and sprinkled over the top of the dish, providing a delicious, cheesy flavour that complements the other ingredients.
If you are unable to find Oaxaca cheese, there are several substitutes that can be used in its place in various dishes. One substitute is mozzarella cheese, which has a similar texture and melting point to Oaxaca cheese. However, mozzarella has a stronger flavour than Oaxaca, so it may not be the best choice for recipes where a mild flavour is desired. Another substitute for Oaxaca cheese is provolone cheese, which has a similar stretchy texture and a mild taste. Provolone is a good option for recipes that call for melted Oaxaca cheese, such as quesadillas or chiles rellenos.
For salads or sandwiches that require shredded or sliced Oaxaca cheese, a good substitute is Monterey Jack cheese. Monterey Jack has a similar taste and texture to Oaxaca, making it an excellent option for these types of dishes.
Storage Instructions
To ensure that Oaxaca cheese stays fresh and flavourful, it is important to store it properly. Oaxaca cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, either in its original packaging or in an airtight container. Before storing the cheese, make sure to dry it thoroughly with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. It is best to keep Oaxaca cheese in the coldest part of the refrigerator, which is usually the back of the lower shelf. The temperature in this area is the most consistent, which helps to keep the cheese fresh for longer.
If the cheese is stored properly, it should last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. However, if you notice any signs of mould or a sour smell, it is best to discard the cheese as it may no longer be safe to eat. When using the cheese, make sure to remove only the amount you need and leave the rest in the refrigerator. This helps to prevent the cheese from drying out or absorbing any unwanted flavours.