Frederic Melton
Fajitas are a beloved dish, but what type of cheese should you use? Cheese is not a traditional item on fajitas, but that doesn't stop people from adding it. Some popular options include queso fresco, cotija, manchego, Colby Jack, cheddar, and pepper jack. Ultimately, the choice of cheese is a matter of personal preference, and people should feel free to experiment with different varieties to find their favorite.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Queso fresco, Cotija, Manchego, Colby Jack, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack |
| Cheese form | Shredded, melted, slices |
| Cheese blends | Mexican cheese blend |
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What You'll Learn
Monterey Jack is a good option
While fajitas are not traditionally served with cheese, some people enjoy adding cheese to their fajitas. A good option for cheese to use in fajitas is Monterey Jack. This cheese is featured in a recipe for chicken fajitas wraps, alongside chicken, avocado, peppers, jalapeno, and chipotle peppers. The cheese adds colour, freshness, and zing to the dish.
Monterey Jack is also a good option for fajitas because it melts well, making it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches. One recipe for a fajita grilled cheese sandwich recommends using Cheesy Jalapeno Bread, with a slab of Monterey Jack in the centre, and filling the sandwich with charred peppers and onions for a south-of-the-border flavour. The combination of savoury cheese and sweet peppers is said to be delicious.
Monterey Jack is also a suitable cheese for fajitas because it is similar to other cheeses recommended for use in fajitas. For example, Colby Jack is a popular choice of cheese for fajitas, and Pepper Jack is also recommended for fajita grilled cheese sandwiches. As these cheeses are similar to Monterey Jack, it can be assumed that the latter is also a good option for fajitas.
Finally, some people prefer to use cheeses that are commonly used in the region where the dish originates. Fajitas are a Mexican-inspired dish, and some sources recommend using Mexican cheeses such as queso blanco, queso fresco, or Cotija. Monterey Jack is a suitable alternative to these cheeses, as it is widely available in the United States and Canada, where fajitas are a popular dish.
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Cheddar is a popular choice
While fajitas are not traditionally served with cheese, many people enjoy adding cheese to their fajitas. One popular cheese option is cheddar. Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be purchased pre-shredded or shredded at home. It has a sharp, salty flavour that can complement the other flavours in a fajita, such as the spice of peppers and the tang of salsa.
Cheddar is a particularly popular choice for fajitas in Texas, where the dish was created. In Texas, many restaurants will serve fajitas with a side of freshly shredded cheddar cheese. This can be a convenient option for those who want to add cheese to their fajitas, as it saves them from having to shred the cheese themselves.
Using cheddar cheese in fajitas can also be a cost-effective option, as it is often cheaper than other cheeses. Additionally, shredding the cheese yourself can be more cost-effective and can result in fresher cheese.
While some people may prefer to use more traditional Mexican cheeses in their fajitas, such as queso fresco or cotija, cheddar is a more easily accessible option for those who do not have specialty grocery stores nearby. Ultimately, the type of cheese one chooses for their fajitas comes down to personal preference. However, it is important to avoid using cheeses that are not meant to be melted, such as Parmesan.
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Queso Fresco is a favourite
While cheese is not a traditional item on fajitas, many people enjoy adding it to their dish. Some popular cheeses to add to fajitas include Cotija, Manchego, Colby Jack, and, of course, Queso Fresco.
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, combining Queso Fresco with jalapeños can be a delicious option. The cheese's mild flavour complements the spice of the jalapeños, creating a tasty and well-rounded flavour profile. Additionally, Queso Fresco's soft texture makes it easy to mix with other ingredients, creating a cohesive and mouth-watering dish.
Another advantage of using Queso Fresco is its versatility. It pairs well with various proteins commonly used in fajitas, such as chicken or steak. For chicken fajitas, the cheese adds a savoury note that enhances the dish's overall flavour. Similarly, when used in steak fajitas, it melts beautifully, creating a rich and indulgent experience.
While some may opt for other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, Queso Fresco remains a top choice for those seeking an authentic and flavourful fajita experience. Its mild yet distinct flavour, combined with its soft and meltable texture, makes it a favourite among fajita enthusiasts. So, if you're looking to elevate your fajita game, consider adding Queso Fresco to your ingredient list!
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Spicy pepper jack for grilled cheese
While fajitas are not traditionally made with cheese, some recipes call for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese like queso fresco or cotija. Spicy pepper jack cheese is a variety of Monterey Jack, so it could be a great choice for grilled cheese fajitas.
For a delicious spicy pepper jack grilled cheese, you can use sourdough bread, or homemade sweet potato yeast bread. First, roast some jalapeño and red peppers in the oven. You can also make a sweet and spicy jelly with jalapeños, bell peppers, sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Then, spread mayonnaise on the bread slices, and add butter to a skillet over medium heat. Layer pepper jack cheese, roasted peppers, and pastrami on the bread, and top with another slice of bread. Grill the sandwich until both sides are golden brown.
You can also add slices of cooked bacon and apples to this grilled cheese for a salty and sweet flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add more vegetables. This spicy pepper jack grilled cheese is a creative and tasty twist on classic fajitas.
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Colby Jack, Manchego, and Cotija too
Colby Jack, a semi-hard American cheese made from cow's milk, is a great choice for fajitas. It has a mild, creamy flavour and a soft, open texture, making it a tasty addition to any fajita. Its texture and flavour can enhance the fajita experience, especially when paired with grilled sandwiches, hamburgers, rye bread, or apples and pears.
Manchego, a Spanish sheep's milk cheese, is another option that can add a unique flavour to fajitas. It has a nutty, buttery taste with a hint of sweetness, and a firm, slightly oily texture. Its flavour can complement the other ingredients in fajitas, creating a delicious blend of flavours and textures.
Cotija, a Mexican cheese, is also worth considering for fajitas. It is a salty and crumbly cheese, often used in Mexican cuisine. It can add a nice texture and flavour to fajitas, especially when combined with other ingredients such as corn, chicken, or beef. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes, including enchiladas, salads, and soups.
While fajitas are typically considered a Tex-Mex dish without cheese, many people enjoy adding their favourite cheeses to enhance the flavour and make it more enjoyable. These three cheeses can be excellent options to consider, each bringing its unique characteristics to the dish.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular cheeses to use in fajitas include Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Cotija, Manchego, queso fresco, Colby Jack, and cheddar.
Yes, some people advise against using certain cheeses such as Parmesan.
If you're making a fajita grilled cheese, you can place cheese slices on top of the bread slices and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Then, add your desired toppings and cover with another slice of grilled bread.
Popular toppings to pair with cheese in fajitas include avocado, peppers, jalapenos, salsa, and sour cream.
No, cheese is not traditionally used in fajitas. However, many people enjoy adding cheese to their fajitas, and there are various types of cheese that can complement the dish well.
