Cotija cheese is a popular cheese in Mexican cuisine, known for its salty and crumbly texture. This cheese has a unique flavour and texture that makes it stand out from other cheeses. In this post, we will explore the origins, production, taste, pairings, and alternative options for Cotija cheese.
What is Cotija?
Cotija cheese is a hard, crumbly cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It has a pale white colour and is often used as a topping for Mexican dishes such as tacos, tostadas and enchiladas. The cheese is sold in blocks or crumbled and can be found in most supermarkets and specialty cheese shops.
Cotija cheese originated in the town of Cotija in the state of Michoacán, Mexico. It is named after the town and has been a popular cheese in Mexican cuisine for centuries.
How is Cotija made?
Cotija cheese is made by adding rennet to heated cow’s milk, which causes the milk to coagulate and form curds. The curds are then cut into small pieces and cooked until they reach the right consistency.
The curds are then salted and pressed into moulds, where they are left to age for several weeks. The ageing process gives Cotija cheese its distinct flavour and crumbly texture.
Flavour profile
Cotija cheese has a salty, tangy flavour that is similar to Feta cheese. Moreover, it has a crumbly texture that makes it perfect for crumbling on top of dishes. Unsurprisingly, this cheese is often used as a topping for Mexican dishes such as tacos, salads, and soups.
Serving guide
Cotija cheese pairs well with a variety of Mexican dishes, including tacos, tostadas and enchiladas. Furthermore, it is also a great topping for salads and soups.
The cheese can be crumbled on top of dishes or grated and used as a seasoning. Cotija cheese also goes well with fresh fruits such as watermelon and mango.
Alternatives to Cotija
If you’re looking for alternatives to Cotija cheese, here are three options to consider:
- Feta: Feta cheese is a soft, crumbly cheese that has a similar flavor profile to Cotija cheese. It is often used in Mediterranean cuisine and is a great topping for salads and sandwiches.
- Queso Fresco: Also known as Queso Blanco, Queso Fresco is a soft, crumbly cheese that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It has a mild flavour and is often used as a topping for tacos and salads.
- Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese is a hard, crumbly cheese that has a salty flavour. It is often used as a topping for pasta dishes and salads.
Thank you for reading
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