Randy Chandler
While the idea of putting cheese in hot chocolate may seem unusual, it is a tradition in several Latin American countries, including Puerto Rico. The combination of sweet chocolate and salty cheese creates a unique flavour profile that many enjoy. In Puerto Rico, hot chocolate with cheese is made using a variety of cheeses, such as Edam, Gouda, mozzarella, or Cheddar, melted into a cup of hot chocolate. This drink is often served as a comforting beverage during the cooler winter months and is said to be a delicious treat.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | Puerto Rico and Colombia |
| Cheese Type | Edam, Gouda, Mozzarella, Cheddar, Queso Estilo Holandes, Oaxacan, Swiss |
| Chocolate Type | Cortes, Goya, Cacao Powder, Cocoa Powder |
| Recipe | Warm whole milk in a saucepan, add gelatin, cocoa powder and salt. Pour boiling water over the mixture. Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Combine with milk and chocolate mixture. Cut cheese into small cubes or shred it. Pour hot chocolate over cheese and stir. |
| Taste | Sweet, salty, bitter, creamy |
| Pairing | Salty crackers and guava paste |
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What You'll Learn
The tradition of adding cheese to hot chocolate
Adding cheese to hot chocolate is a tradition in several Latin countries, including Puerto Rico and Colombia. The unusual combination of sweet chocolate and savoury cheese creates a unique flavour profile that has garnered mixed reactions from those unfamiliar with the tradition. However, for those willing to try it, it can be a delightful treat.
In Puerto Rico, hot chocolate is often served with Edam cheese, a Dutch cheese with a mild and salty taste similar to Gouda. The cheese is cut into small cubes or shredded and added to the hot chocolate, creating a creamy and rich texture. Some people also add grass-fed gelatin to thicken the drink and enhance its creaminess. Others use cocoa powder or cacao powder instead of chocolate bars to create a rich "chocolate caliente".
In Colombia, hot chocolate is commonly enjoyed with breakfast or as an evening snack. The chocolate is typically prepared by heating bitter, presweetened chocolate tablets with milk or water on a stovetop. Colombians often use mozzarella cheese in their hot chocolate, but Oaxacan, Swiss, or Gouda cheese are also popular choices.
While the exact origins of this tradition are unclear, some speculate that it may have been influenced by Spanish colonial rule in Puerto Rico. However, the practice of adding cheese to hot chocolate has become a unique and beloved aspect of Puerto Rican and Colombian culinary culture.
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Popular cheese varieties used
There are a variety of cheeses used in hot chocolate in Puerto Rico. A Dutch cheese called Edam cheese is often used, which is similar to Gouda, with a somewhat mild and salty taste. Some sources also claim that Cheddar is used. Mozzarella is another popular choice, as it has a wonderful texture when melted and is mildly salty. It is also a type of cheese that many Colombians use in their hot chocolate. Another option is to use Gouda, specifically smoked Gouda, as the smokiness is said to be nice in the chocolate.
The cheese is usually cut into small cubes or shredded, then separated into serving cups. The hot chocolate is then poured over the cheese and given a quick stir. This creates a creamy and rich texture, with the sweetness of the chocolate blending perfectly with the salty notes of the cheese.
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Preparation methods
The addition of cheese to hot chocolate is a long-held tradition in Puerto Rico. This unique combination of sweet and savoury flavours creates a delightful treat for chocolate lovers. Here are some preparation methods for this intriguing beverage:
Selecting the Cheese
The choice of cheese can vary, but it is essential to choose a variety that melts well and has a mild flavour that complements the chocolate. Popular options include Edam cheese, a Dutch cheese with a mildly salty taste similar to Gouda, or Holland-style cheese. Queso Holandes, a sharp cheese wrapped in red wax, is also a traditional choice. Some people also experiment with other varieties like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda. It is best to avoid strongly flavoured or hard cheeses that do not melt smoothly.
Preparing the Hot Chocolate
The base of the hot chocolate can be made using cocoa or cacao powder. For an extra creamy and rich consistency, some people add grass-fed gelatin to the mixture. This step involves combining the gelatin with cocoa powder and hot water, ensuring that it is whisked immediately to prevent clumping. Then, add sweeteners like maple syrup or sugar, along with a touch of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavours. Separately, warm whole milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Finally, combine the chocolate mixture with the warmed milk, stirring until well blended.
Adding the Cheese
Cut or shred the chosen cheese into small cubes or pieces. Place these cheese pieces into serving cups, and then pour the hot chocolate over them. Give the beverage a quick stir to ensure the cheese starts melting. Allow it to sit for a moment so that the cheese becomes gooey and stringy. You can also add a spoon to scoop up the melted cheese as you sip the hot chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
For an authentic Puerto Rican experience, pair your cheesy hot chocolate with salty crackers and guava paste on the side. This combination of sweet and salty flavours is sure to delight your taste buds!
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Pairing suggestions
While the idea of putting cheese in hot chocolate may seem unusual, it is a beloved tradition in Puerto Rico and Colombia. The combination of sweet and salty flavours creates a unique drinking experience.
When making Puerto Rican-style hot chocolate with cheese, it is important to select the right type of cheese. The most popular choice is Edam cheese, a Dutch cheese with a mild and salty taste, similar to Gouda. Some sources also suggest using Gouda cheese, particularly smoked Gouda, as it adds a pleasant smoky flavour to the hot chocolate. Mozzarella is another popular choice, especially in Colombia, as it has a wonderful melted texture and a mild and salty taste. It is important to avoid hard cheeses and opt for milder varieties that melt well.
When preparing the hot chocolate, it is recommended to cut the cheese into small cubes or shred it before adding it to the cup. The hot chocolate is then poured over the cheese and stirred briefly. This allows the cheese to melt slightly, creating a creamy and rich texture.
To complete the Puerto Rican snack experience, it is suggested to pair the hot chocolate with salty crackers and guava paste. Guava paste, known as "bocadillo" in Colombia and "guayaba" elsewhere, is commonly used in Latin American cuisine and is often paired with a salty or creamy white cheese.
For those who are adventurous enough to try this unique combination, the result may be a delightful discovery of new flavours and textures.
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Other Latin culinary super-hacks
While the idea of putting cheese in hot chocolate might seem unusual to some, it is a beloved tradition in Puerto Rico and Colombia. This unique combination of sweet and salty flavours creates a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.
Guava Paste
The addition of guava paste, or bocadillo, is a popular way to enhance various dishes in Latin America. In Cuba, it is used as a filling for pastelitos (turnovers), while in Puerto Rico, it is commonly found in empanadas. Guava paste is also used to flavour cakes, cookies, and even ice cream, often paired with a salty or creamy white cheese for a delightful contrast.
Cuban Coffee
Cuban coffee is a powerful and flavourful Latin beverage. To prepare a cortadito, which is similar to an espresso macchiato, simply combine a block of Bustelo, sugar, and hot water in a stovetop espresso maker. This robust coffee creation is the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Tahdig-Inspired Rice
Rice is a staple in many Latin American countries, and a unique twist on this dish is inspired by the Persian delicacy, tahdig. This variation involves creating a shell of crunchy goodness, known as la pega, around the fluffy white rice. Whether you follow a recipe or use an Imusa-brand cauldron, this dish is sure to impress and might even spark a friendly competition for the crispy bits!
Sorullitos
Sorullitos are a traditional Puerto Rican snack, perfect for midday cravings. They are made with cornmeal, water, butter, sugar, salt, and cheese. The dough is fried to achieve a crispy exterior and soft interior, and they are typically served with mayoketchup, a dip made by mixing mayonnaise and ketchup with a pinch of salt and garlic powder.
Quesitos
Quesitos are savoury finger sandwiches that are sure to be a hit at any gathering. They are made with puff pastry, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Baked until golden and crunchy, they pair perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a tradition in Puerto Rico to put cheese in hot chocolate.
The most common cheese used is Edam cheese, which is a Dutch cheese similar to Gouda. Other types of cheese used include mozzarella, cheddar, and Oaxacan cheese.
To make Puerto Rican-style hot chocolate with cheese, warm whole milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add gelatin, cocoa powder, and salt to a bowl and combine with boiling water. Mix in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Combine the milk with the chocolate mixture and stir. Cut or shred the cheese into small pieces and place in serving cups. Pour the hot chocolate over the cheese and stir.
The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates a unique and delicious treat. The cheese adds creaminess and richness to the beverage.
Yes, adding cheese to hot chocolate is a long-held tradition in Puerto Rico and Colombia. It may have been brought over by the Spaniards during colonization.
