The Longevity Of Grated Cotija Cheese: How Long Does It Last?

Cotija cheese is a Mexican cheese that is rising in popularity. It is a cow's milk cheese with a distinctive saltiness and a crumbly texture. It is often used as a topping or garnish for dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, salads, and grilled corn. The shelf life of cotija cheese depends on various factors such as the type of cotija, how it is stored, and whether it has been grated.

How long does grated cotija cheese last in the fridge?

Grated cotija cheese will last for about 2 to 4 weeks in the fridge. However, the shelf life of cotija cheese depends on several factors, such as the type of cotija, how it is stored, and whether it is sealed or exposed.

Cotija cheese is a Mexican cheese made from cow's milk. It is typically aged for 100 days to 12 months, which helps to dry out the cheese and makes it perfect for crumbling or grating over foods. The aging process gives the cheese its distinctive salty flavour.

Fresh, or unaged, cotija cheese will last for about 4 to 6 weeks in the fridge when wrapped well or sealed in a container. Aged cotija cheese, on the other hand, can last for several months in the fridge. If you buy fresh cotija cheese from a cheese counter, it is recommended to consume it within 1 to 2 weeks.

To extend the shelf life of cotija cheese, it can be stored in the freezer. In the freezer, cotija cheese should be consumed within 6 to 8 months, although some sources claim it can last up to 12 months without going bad. Freezing cotija cheese will alter its texture, making it slightly more crumbly.

To store cotija cheese in the freezer, it is recommended to grate the cheese first, then store it in an airtight freezer bag with some cornstarch to prevent the cheese from sticking together.

It is important to note that cotija cheese can go bad, and consuming spoiled cheese can lead to food poisoning. Signs of spoiled cotija cheese include visible mold, a strange or sour smell, discolouration, and changes in texture such as becoming too hard or too soft.

How long does it last in the freezer?

Grated cotija cheese can be frozen to extend its shelf life by up to 6-8 months. However, freezing may alter its texture, making it slightly more crumbly than usual. To freeze grated cotija cheese, it is recommended to grate the cheese first, then seal it in an airtight freezer bag. It is also a good idea to add cornstarch to the bag to prevent the cheese from sticking together.

When defrosting grated cotija cheese, it is best to remove the cheese from the freezer the night before you wish to use it. Place the frozen cheese in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer and leave it to thaw overnight. Then, 2-3 hours before using it, take the cheese out of the fridge and let it soften at room temperature.

While freezing grated cotija cheese can extend its shelf life, it is important to note that freezing may affect the texture and flavour of the cheese. Some people recommend avoiding freezing cotija cheese altogether, as the cheese can become dry and crumbly, and the flavour may be diminished.

Overall, freezing is a viable option for extending the shelf life of grated cotija cheese, but it may require some experimentation to determine the optimal freezing and defrosting methods for your specific needs.

How to store it in the fridge

To store grated cotija cheese in the fridge, use a sealed container or plastic bag. It should last for about 2-4 weeks.

When storing cotija cheese in the fridge, it is important to control the moisture levels. Cotija cheese has very high moisture levels, which can lead to quick mould growth. This presents health problems and alters the texture and taste of the cheese. Therefore, it is best to consume the cheese within 2 months if it is being kept in the fridge.

To control moisture levels, always store cotija cheese in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Ideally, keep it in the vegetable drawer where humidity levels are more stable. After opening, wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper before placing it in a loose-fitting food storage bag or a small container. Avoid using cling wrap, as it can promote the growth of bacteria.

If you want to freeze cotija cheese for longer-term storage, grate it first and then store it in a freezer bag. Be sure to press out as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. To use it after freezing, there is no need to thaw it. It can be added directly to your hot dishes.

How to store it in the freezer

Grated cotija cheese can be stored in the freezer to extend its shelf life by an additional 6-8 months. However, freezing may alter its texture, making it slightly more crumbly than usual. To store it in the freezer, follow these steps:

Step 1: Grate the Cheese

First, grate the cotija cheese into the size you would like when defrosted. Grating the cheese beforehand makes it a much better option than freezing an entire block, as it will be easier to use and have a better texture when defrosted.

Step 2: Wrap the Cheese

Next, wrap the grated cheese carefully. Start by using wax or parchment paper, then add a layer of plastic wrap, and finally, a layer of aluminium foil. The foil will help protect the cheese from excessive freezer burn.

Step 3: Place in a Container or Bag

For some extra protection, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight container. This will help protect it from absorbing any odors if the wrapping tears.

Step 4: Seal and Freeze

Once the cotija cheese is wrapped tightly, place it in the freezer. Make sure to press out as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. It is best to use the cheese within the first month of freezing, and it should not be stored in the freezer for longer than 6 months.

Step 5: Defrosting

When you are ready to use the frozen grated cotija cheese, remove it from the freezer and take it out of the container. Leave it in its packaging and place it on a plate in the fridge overnight to defrost. This will help maintain the best structure and flavour possible. Then, 2-3 hours before you are ready to use it, take the cheese out of the fridge and let it soften at room temperature.

How to tell if it's gone bad

Grated cotija cheese will typically last for 2-4 weeks in the fridge. However, it's important to know how to identify if your cheese has gone bad.

Firstly, if there is any visible mould on the cheese, it's time to throw it out. Cotija cheese is white, so any discolouration is a sign that your cheese has gone bad. If you notice any pink, green, grey or other strange colours on the cheese, it's definitely time to toss it.

Secondly, if the cheese smells strange or sour, this is a sign of spoilage. Good cotija cheese should have a sweet, deep aroma, so if it smells noticeably different, it's best to get rid of it.

Thirdly, if the texture of the cheese seems off, it's likely no longer safe to eat. If the cheese is too hard or too soft, it has probably gone bad.

Finally, if you notice any signs of spoilage, trust your instincts and throw the cheese away. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

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