Bushra Griffith
Fajitas are a popular dish, but are they traditionally served with cheese? It's hard to say what is traditional given that fajitas are a relatively recent dish, invented in Texas in the 1930s as tacos de arrachera and popularized in the 1970s and 1980s. While some people enjoy adding cheese to their fajitas, others argue that cheese is not typically included in traditional Mexican dishes like carne asada or tacos. In this introduction, we will explore the history of fajitas and the role of cheese in this beloved cuisine.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese in fajitas | Some sources suggest that fajitas are not traditionally served with cheese, while others claim that they are served with cheese on the side or on the beans |
| Type of cheese | Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Cotija, Manchego, Queso Fresco, Colby Jack, Mozzarella, Queso |
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What You'll Learn
Fajitas are a recent dish, so there is no fixed tradition regarding cheese
Fajitas are a relatively recent dish, having been popularized in the 1970s and 1980s, so there is no fixed tradition regarding cheese. They were first introduced in Texas in the 1930s as "tacos de arrachera" and later popularized as fajitas. The dish is based on traditional Mexican dishes like carne asada and tacos, which typically do not include cheese except for maybe a sprinkling of Cotija on the beans.
Fajitas typically consist of grilled meat, such as skirt steak, chicken, or vegetarian options, served with stripped peppers and onions on a flour or corn tortilla. Various condiments and toppings are often served with fajitas, including guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, refried beans, and diced tomatoes. While cheese is not traditionally included in the original Mexican dishes that inspired fajitas, it has become a common topping in many regions.
The inclusion of cheese in fajitas is a matter of personal preference and regional variation. Some people consider cheese to be a normal part of fajitas, while others rarely see it served with the dish. In some restaurants, cheese may be included as a paid extra. Common types of cheese used in fajitas include shredded cheddar, Cotija, Monterey Jack, and queso.
The lack of a fixed tradition regarding cheese in fajitas is likely due to the dish's recent origin and its evolution in different regions. Fajitas have become a popular dish in various forms, from casual dining restaurants to in-home cooking, allowing for diverse interpretations and customizations. As one source comments, "there are no cheese rules with fajitas, so use what you enjoy."
While fajitas may not have a long history of traditional preparation, they have quickly become a beloved dish for many, with room for creativity and personal touches, including the addition of cheese.
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Fajitas are a Tex-Mex dish, so cheese is often included
Fajitas are a relatively recent dish, so it is hard to pinpoint what is "traditional". However, the original fajitas were based on traditional Mexican dishes like carne asada plates and/or tacos, which usually do not include cheese, except maybe a sprinkling of cotija on the beans. Cheese was likely included early on in the history of fajitas at Tex-Mex restaurants because shredded cheese, lettuce, and sour cream are the basis of all things Tex-Mex.
Some people prefer their fajitas with cheese, and shredded cheddar is a popular choice. Other options include Monterey Jack, Cotija, Manchego, queso fresco, and Colby Jack. Some restaurants in Texas serve their fajitas with a side of cheese, and it is common to dip fajita tacos in queso.
While cheese is often included in fajitas, it is not always present. Some people prefer their fajitas without cheese, and in Southern California, only a few places serve fajitas with cheese. In addition, some popular fajita toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, salsa, and lettuce do not include cheese.
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Cheese is usually served on the side
Fajitas are a popular dish, but are they served with cheese? It depends on where you are and the type of fajita. While fajitas are often associated with Mexico, they actually originated in Texas in the 1930s and gained popularity in the 1970s. As such, they are considered a Tex-Mex dish, and the inclusion of cheese is a typical Tex-Mex feature.
Traditionally, fajitas are served on a sizzling platter with flour tortillas, guacamole, pico de gallo, and other condiments. Cheese is often considered a side or a topping rather than an integral part of the dish. In Texas, shredded cheddar cheese is a common option for those who want cheese with their fajitas. However, the type of cheese can vary, and some people may prefer other varieties such as Monterey Jack, Cotija, or even queso (melted Mexican cheese).
Some people enjoy adding cheese to their fajitas, and it is often available as a side or extra in restaurants. In Washington state, for example, it is common for restaurants to serve fajitas with shredded cheddar cheese on the side. However, in Southern California, only a few places offer cheese with fajitas. This variation in practice suggests that cheese is not a standard component of fajitas but rather an optional addition.
While cheese is not considered a traditional part of fajitas, it has gained acceptance in certain regions and establishments. Fast-casual burrito restaurants, such as Chipotle, Moe's, or Qdoba, often serve fajitas with cheese. Additionally, some recipes for fajitas, like chicken fajitas, may include cheese as an ingredient or topping. Ultimately, the inclusion of cheese in fajitas is a matter of personal preference, and there is no definitive rule regarding its presence or absence.
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Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Cotija are popular cheese choices
While fajitas are not traditionally served with cheese, it has become common to include cheese as a topping or side, especially in Tex-Mex cuisine. Indeed, fajitas are often served with a range of toppings and sides, allowing diners to customise their meal to their taste.
Monterey Jack is another popular cheese choice for fajitas. This variety of cheese is known for its mild flavour and excellent melting properties, making it a perfect addition to chicken fajitas. The Canadian Goodness recipe for chicken fajitas, for example, includes Monterey Jack cheese, which adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Cotija cheese is often mentioned in discussions about fajitas. It is a traditional Mexican cheese that is commonly used as a topping or garnish. Cotija cheese is known for its salty, tangy flavour and crumbly texture, resembling feta cheese. It is often sprinkled on top of beans, rice, or directly onto fajitas, adding a burst of flavour and a contrasting texture.
While fajitas are versatile and can be enjoyed with various cheeses, it is worth noting that some cheeses may not be the best fit. For example, one Reddit user cautions against using Parmesan cheese, as it may not complement the other flavours and textures typically found in fajitas. Ultimately, the choice of cheese comes down to personal preference, and experimentation can lead to delightful discoveries.
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Cheese is often included in fast-casual settings
While fajitas are not traditionally a Mexican dish, they have become a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine. Fajitas were first popularized in the 1970s in Central Texas, typically served on a sizzling platter with flour tortillas, guacamole, pico de gallo, and grated cheese on the side. The inclusion of cheese with fajitas is a matter of debate, with some people insisting on cheese as a necessary component, while others rarely see fajitas served with cheese.
The variation in cheese inclusion may be due to regional differences, as observed in different states across the US. For instance, in Washington state, it is common to find shredded cheddar cheese served with fajitas, whereas in Southern California, only a few places offer cheese with fajitas. This variation extends to different restaurants, with some always including cheese, while others provide it as a paid extra.
The type of cheese used in fajitas is also a matter of preference, with suggestions ranging from freshly shredded cheddar to Cotija, Manchego, queso fresco, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack. Some people opt for dipping their fajitas in queso, a spicy cheese dip commonly served with chips. Ultimately, there are no rigid rules regarding cheese selection for fajitas, and individuals can choose the type of cheese they enjoy most.
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Frequently asked questions
Fajitas are sometimes served with cheese, but this is not traditional. Fajitas were first popularised in the 1970s in Central Texas and were typically served with flour tortillas, guacamole, pico de gallo and grated cheese on the side. However, fajitas are a Tex-Mex dish, and the traditional Mexican dishes they are based on do not usually include cheese.
There are no rules when it comes to choosing cheese for your fajitas, but some popular options include Cotija, Manchego, queso fresco, Colby Jack, cheddar, and Monterey Jack.
No, fajita kits usually do not include cheese. However, some kits may include cheese as a paid extra.
Yes, queso flameado is a traditional Mexican dish that includes melted cheese served on a cast-iron plate.
Yes, vegetarian fajitas can include cheese. For example, you could make a fajita rice bowl with Mexican rice, black beans, sweetcorn, cotija cheese and a drizzle of lime crema or chipotle sauce.
