Patrick Oconnell
Cheese enchiladas are a popular Tex-Mex dish, with many variations of the recipe. While Tex-Mex is not authentic Mexican food, it has evolved to include more traditional Mexican flavours. The type of cheese used in enchiladas varies depending on the region and the specific recipe. In the Midwest, for example, enchiladas might use processed Jack cheese with sodium citrate, while in other regions, cheeses such as Cotija, Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or even unaged Jack cheese may be used. Some recipes call for a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and cheddar, while others suggest using a Mexican-blend shredded cheese or a combination of Jack and cheddar. Ultimately, the type of cheese used in enchiladas can vary widely, and different restaurants and chefs may have their own unique recipes and cheese combinations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Mild Cheddar, Sharp Cheddar, Cotija, Queso Oaxaca, Queso Fresco, Manchego, Panela, Requesón, Asadero, Chihuahua, Laughing Cow, White American, Pepper Jack, Processed Jack, American |
| Cheese texture | Melty, soft, crumbly, smooth, rich, creamy, mild, sharp, tangy, stretchy |
| Cheese colour | White, yellow |
| Other ingredients | Corn tortillas, vegetable oil, beef broth, flour, cumin, paprika, garlic, chicken broth, tomato paste, taco seasoning, beef |
| Sauce colour | Red, green, brown |
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What You'll Learn
Mexican restaurants in the US often use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar
Monterey Jack is a mild-flavoured cheese that melts smoothly, and is often used in Mexican dishes. Cheddar, on the other hand, brings a sharper, tangier flavour to the blend, and its melting qualities are enhanced when a milder, softer variety is chosen. Using freshly grated cheese is recommended, as it has a superior flavour and texture compared to pre-grated cheese.
Some restaurants may opt for a blend of cheeses that includes other varieties, such as queso Oaxaca, Chihuahua, or string cheese. These cheeses are also known for their melting qualities and are commonly used in Mexican cuisine. For a truly authentic Mexican experience, however, it is recommended to use queso fresco or queso Oaxaca, as these are the most commonly used cheeses in traditional Mexican cooking.
For those who enjoy making enchiladas at home, it is possible to purchase a pre-blended shredded Mexican cheese mix at most grocery stores. These blends are designed to melt and stretch, replicating the restaurant-style enchilada experience.
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Some use melted white American cheese
While enchiladas are traditionally made with corn tortillas and filled with cheese, the type of cheese used can vary. Some recipes call for a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack and cheddar, while others may use a Mexican-style shredded cheese blend or even a melting cheese like Oaxaca or Chihuahua.
The use of melted white American cheese in enchiladas may be more common in certain regions, such as the Midwest. However, it is worth noting that the availability and preference for specific cheeses may vary depending on the location of the Mexican restaurants in question.
Creating enchiladas with melted white American cheese at home is a straightforward process. One method involves heating milk in a pot until it simmers, gradually adding shredded or diced cheese, and stirring continuously until the desired consistency is achieved. This technique ensures a smooth and creamy texture that complements the other ingredients in enchiladas.
While some cooks opt for freshly grated mild cheddar or Monterey Jack for enchiladas, others find that high-quality shredded cheese blends can be a suitable substitute when time is limited. These blends are designed to melt and stretch, replicating the qualities often sought after in restaurant-style enchiladas.
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Queso Chihuahua, a Mexican melting cheese, is another popular choice
While cheddar and Monterey Jack are common choices for enchilada cheese blends in Tex-Mex restaurants, authentic Mexican enchiladas use different types of cheese. Queso Chihuahua, a Mexican melting cheese, is another popular choice.
Queso Chihuahua, also known as Queso Menonita, originated in the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is a type of cream, with a texture that is firm, smooth, rich, and creamy. It is often compared to cheddar cheese, with a similar sharp and tangy flavour. It is a popular filling for enchiladas due to its excellent melting properties.
Queso Chihuahua is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. In addition to enchiladas, it is commonly used in cheese dips and spreads. Its smooth and creamy texture makes it ideal for spreading on crackers, bread, or vegetables. It can also be used as a topping for tacos, nachos, or other Mexican dishes.
When shopping for Queso Chihuahua, it may be labelled as "Queso Menonita" or simply "Chihuahua." It is available in both block and shredded forms, and can be found in most grocery stores that carry a variety of Mexican cheeses.
For those who enjoy making enchiladas at home, Queso Chihuahua is a great choice for achieving that perfect, melty texture. It can be combined with other cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, to create a unique flavour profile. Some home cooks even substitute it for cheddar in their recipes to make their enchiladas more authentic.
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Requesón is a spreadable cheese used in enchilada filling
While Requesón is a popular choice for enchiladas, other cheeses are also used. For example, a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar is a common combination in enchiladas. This blend creates a creamy, savoury enchilada with a distinct flavour. Freshly grated mild cheddar and Monterey Jack are ideal for enchiladas as they are great melting cheeses. When grated from a block of cheese, they create a softer and creamier texture, perfect for enchiladas.
Some restaurants may also use a Mexican-blend shredded cheese, which can be purchased pre-shredded for convenience. This blend typically includes cheeses that melt and stretch when heated, providing the desired texture for enchiladas.
Additionally, some Mexican restaurants use queso Oaxaca, a type of string cheese, for enchilada toppings as it melts easily. This cheese is also known as "cheesillo" in some regions.
While enchiladas are a beloved Tex-Mex dish, it is important to note that they are not considered authentic Mexican cuisine. Traditional Mexican ingredients were often absent from classic Tex-Mex menus, and the inclusion of cheese in recipes is influenced by European culinary traditions.
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Manchego, a Mexican cheese made from cow's milk, is also used
While there are many types of cheese used in enchiladas, Manchego, a Mexican cheese made from cow's milk, is also a popular choice. It is one of the few authentically Mexican cheeses, with a rich history dating back to the arrival of Europeans in Mexico. Before this period, cheese-bearing animals like goats and cows were not native to the region, and as a result, most traditional recipes did not originally include cheese. However, over time, cheeses like Manchego have become integral to many authentic Mexican dishes.
Manchego is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of enchilada recipes. It has a unique flavour and texture that sets it apart from other cheeses. When melted, Manchego has a creamy consistency that blends seamlessly with other ingredients. This makes it ideal for enchiladas, where a smooth and cohesive filling is desired. Its mild flavour also ensures that it does not overpower the other flavours in the dish.
One popular recipe featuring Manchego combines the cheese with corn tortillas, creating a delicious and authentic Mexican meal. The tortillas are stuffed with a generous amount of shredded Manchego, which melts beautifully when heated. To enhance the flavour and texture, the enchiladas can be topped with a savoury enchilada gravy made from beef broth and Mexican spices. This gravy complements the mildness of the cheese, adding depth and savouriness to the dish.
In addition to its flavour and melting properties, Manchego is also a practical choice for enchiladas due to its stretchiness. This attribute is essential for achieving the desired consistency in enchilada fillings, allowing the cheese to bind the other ingredients together. Moreover, Manchego's stretchiness contributes to the overall presentation of the dish, creating long, gooey strands of cheese that are visually appealing and tempting.
While Manchego is a popular choice, it is worth noting that there are several other cheeses commonly used in enchiladas. These include Monterey Jack, cheddar, queso Oaxaca, queso fresco, and Cotija. Each of these cheeses offers a unique flavour and texture, contributing to the diverse and delectable world of Mexican cuisine. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference, regional influences, and the desired flavour profile of the dish.
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Frequently asked questions
Mexican restaurants use a variety of cheeses in enchiladas, including Monterey Jack, mild cheddar, and queso Oaxaca.
Freshly grated mild cheddar and Monterey Jack are great melting cheeses for enchiladas. If you're short on time, a high-quality bag of Mexican-blend shredded cheese is a good alternative.
The melty white cheese used in some enchiladas is likely to be queso Oaxaca, or unaged jack cheese.
Queso fresco is an authentic Mexican cheese that is commonly used in enchiladas. Other authentic Mexican cheeses include queso Oaxaca, Cotija, Manchego, and Panela.
In addition to cheese, enchiladas typically include corn tortillas, beef broth, and Mexican spices such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
