Andy Montoya
Chihuahua cheese is a popular Mexican cheese, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where it originated. It is an aged cow's milk cheese with a firm and crumbly texture and a mild, buttery flavour. Chihuahua cheese is a common ingredient in Mexican dishes and is often used in queso dip. In this article, we will explore the nutritional profile of Chihuahua cheese and discuss whether it can be considered a healthy food option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 105 kcal per 28g slice |
| Protein | 6 g per 28g slice |
| Fat | 8 g per 28g slice |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g per 28g slice |
| Sugar | 2 g per 28g slice |
| Sodium | 173 g per 28g slice |
| Cholesterol | 29 g per 28g slice |
| Taste | Salty, Umami, Mild, Sharp, Buttery, Smooth |
| Colour | White to Yellowy Cream |
| Texture | Firm and Crumbly |
| Origin | Mexican State of Chihuahua |
| Type of Milk | Cow's Milk |
| Histamine Content | May be a health risk at >50 mg/kg |
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What You'll Learn
Chihuahua cheese nutrition facts and calories
Chihuahua cheese, made from cow's milk in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, has a unique flavour profile and a range of nutritional properties. The cheese is typically sold as a small wheel and varies in colour from white to a creamy yellow. It has a firm, crumbly texture and a flavour that is often likened to mild cheddar—sharp, buttery, and smooth.
A 28-gram slice of Chihuahua cheese contains 105 calories, with 6 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of sugar. It also contains 173 grams of sodium and 29 grams of cholesterol. The cheese is considered salty and umami in taste, with the latter being a savoury, depth of flavour often found in meat, seafood, beans, and nuts.
In terms of calories, a single pound of Chihuahua cheese contains approximately 1696 calories. While this cheese can be a tasty addition to Mexican dishes and queso dip, as with all foods, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The nutritional value of Chihuahua cheese can vary slightly depending on the specific brand, aging process, and other factors. It is always a good idea to refer to the product's nutrition label for the most accurate and detailed information.
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Chihuahua cheese and tyramine
Chihuahua cheese is an aged cow's milk cheese made in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is the most consumed matured cheese in Mexico. In the production process of Chihuahua cheese, maturation is carried out by adding acid lactic microorganisms, mainly of the Lactococcus genus, and sometimes the Streptococcus and Lactobacillus genus. As part of the metabolism of fermenting microorganisms, biogenic amines can develop in matured foods, resulting from the activity of amino decarboxylase enzymes.
Histamine and tyramine are the main amines formed in cheese, and their consumption represents a significant health risk. In particular, tyramine has been highlighted as the most frequent of the biogenic amines in matured cheeses. Tyramine was detected in six out of eight analysed samples of Chihuahua cheese at the end of their shelf life, while histamine was found in only three.
The presence of histamine and tyramine in Chihuahua cheese is associated with the presence of the genes hdc and tdc, which code for the enzymes responsible for the synthesis of these compounds (histidine and tyrosine decarboxylase, or HDC and TDC). A significant correlation was observed between the presence of these amines at the end of shelf life and the presence of the genes that code for the enzymes that produce them.
The production of histamine and tyramine continues during the storage of the cheese, usually at refrigeration temperatures between 10 and 20 °C. The concentration of these compounds can be evaluated using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC).
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Chihuahua cheese and histamine
Chihuahua cheese is an aged cow's milk cheese made in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is the most consumed matured cheese in Mexico. The maturation process involves adding acid lactic microorganisms, mainly of the Lactococcus genus, and sometimes the Streptococcus and Lactobacillus genus.
During the production and maturation of Chihuahua cheese, biogenic amines such as histamine and tyramine can form as a result of the activity of amino decarboxylase enzymes. These biogenic amines pose a significant health risk to consumers, with even small amounts of histamine, ranging from 5 to 10 mg, considered a risk factor for sensitive individuals. The consumption of Chihuahua cheese, therefore, carries the risk of histamine intake.
Histamine is a natural compound produced by the body to support the immune system, digestion, and mental health. However, an excess of histamine can lead to adverse effects, particularly in individuals with histamine intolerance. While some people may be able to tolerate cheeses with high histamine levels, those with histamine intolerance are likely to experience problems and should avoid such cheeses.
Aged cheeses, including Parmesan, Asiago, Cheddar, Swiss cheese, and Gouda, are known to have high histamine content due to the presence of certain microbes that convert histidine to histamine during processing. Chihuahua cheese, as a matured cheese, also undergoes a similar maturation process, which results in the formation of histamine. Therefore, it can be inferred that Chihuahua cheese contains notable levels of histamine, making it potentially problematic for individuals with histamine intolerance or sensitivity.
To conclude, Chihuahua cheese, as a matured cheese, contains histamine due to the presence of specific microbes and the maturation process. While the exact histamine content may vary, individuals with histamine intolerance or sensitivity should exercise caution when consuming Chihuahua cheese to avoid potential adverse reactions associated with excess histamine intake.
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Chihuahua cheese taste and texture
Chihuahua cheese is an aged cow's milk cheese produced in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is typically sold as a small wheel and ranges in colour from white to a creamy yellow. The texture of Chihuahua cheese is firm, and sometimes crumbly, though some types do not crumble. The cheese is similar in taste to a mild cheddar, with a smooth, buttery, and mildly sharp flavour. It is used in queso dip and several Mexican dishes.
Chihuahua cheese is often described as having a mild flavour. It is commonly used in Mexican dishes such as quesadillas, enchiladas, and cheese dips. When melted, the cheese becomes gooey and is known for its ability to enhance the flavours of other ingredients in a dish.
The taste of Chihuahua cheese can be attributed to the ageing process it undergoes. As a cheese ages, its flavour becomes more pronounced and complex due to the breakdown of proteins and fats by enzymes. This process also affects the texture, making it firmer and more crumbly.
The texture and flavour of Chihuahua cheese also depend on how it is prepared and served. When shredded and melted, it becomes gooey and stretchy, making it ideal for dishes like quesadillas and dips. When served in slices or chunks, the cheese can add a creamy and buttery texture to sandwiches, burgers, or salads.
In terms of nutritional value, Chihuahua cheese is a good source of protein, fats, and calcium. It also contains sodium and other minerals, contributing to its salty taste. Overall, the taste and texture of Chihuahua cheese make it a versatile ingredient in various dishes, enhancing the flavours of other ingredients while adding its mild, buttery, and sharp notes.
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Chihuahua cheese in Mexican dishes
Chihuahua cheese, also known as queso menonita, is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine and is especially well-known in the northern state of Chihuahua, where it originated. This semi-soft cheese is made from cow's milk and has a mild, buttery, and nutty flavour with a creamy texture. It is a versatile ingredient that can be melted or used in its solid form in a variety of Mexican dishes.
One of the most popular ways to use Chihuahua cheese is in quesadillas. The cheese's melting properties make it ideal for creating a thick and creamy filling without becoming oily. It can also be used in other melted cheese dishes such as queso fundido (fondue-style melted cheese) and choriqueso. Chihuahua cheese's mild flavour and melting properties also make it a good choice for dishes like chilaquiles, chili con queso, and sauces.
In its solid form, Chihuahua cheese can be grated and sprinkled over tacos, salads, or other Mexican dishes. It can also be used as a topping for nachos, enchiladas, or other dishes where a creamy, mild cheese is desired. The cheese's versatility and mild flavour make it a good choice for those who want to add a creamy element to their Mexican dishes without overwhelming other flavours.
Nutritionally, Chihuahua cheese is a good source of protein and calcium. However, due to its high-fat content, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. A 28-gram slice of Chihuahua cheese contains approximately 105 calories, 6 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, 2 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of sugar, and 173 grams of sodium.
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Frequently asked questions
Chihuahua cheese is an aged cow's milk cheese made in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is firm and a bit crumbly, with a taste similar to mild cheddar.
Chihuahua cheese is a good source of protein, containing 6g per 28g slice. It also contains fats, carbs, sugar, and sodium. However, it has been found to contain histamine levels that may pose a health risk.
Histamine is a biogenic amine that can have toxic effects. While regulations exist for histamine levels in fish, there are no regulations for histamine levels in cheese in Mexico, where Chihuahua cheese is produced. High histamine levels can pose a health risk, according to the FDA.
Chihuahua cheese is commonly used in Mexican dishes, such as queso dip and quesadillas. It melts well and has a gooey texture, making it a tasty addition to various recipes.
