Andy Montoya
Fish tacos are a delicious and easy meal to make at home, and there are many ways to make them your own. While some people enjoy cheese on their fish tacos, others believe cheese has no place on fish. Those who like cheese on their fish tacos recommend Cotija cheese, a Mexican cheese that is mild and less salty than feta, and crumbles as you grate or shred it. Other options include feta, ricotta salata, farmer's cheeses, Parmesan, and sharp cheddar. For those who want a zesty taco, a lime crema or spicy mayo might be a better option than cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Cotija, Feta, Queso Fresco, Cheddar, Parmesan, Mozzarella, Farmer's Cheese, Ricotta Salata, Blue Cheese, Greek Feta, Habanero Cheddar, Pepper Jack |
| Cheese texture | Crumbled, shredded, melted |
| Taco type | Ensenada style, grilled, fried, gluten-free |
| Fish type | White fish, barramundi, cod, tilapia, halibut, bass, grouper, mahi-mahi, snapper, salmon, swordfish |
| Other ingredients | Avocado, cabbage, Cajun spices, lime, cilantro, onion, chillies, crema, sour cream, mayonnaise, hot sauce, pico de gallo |
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What You'll Learn
The best cheese for fish tacos is Cotija
Some people may prefer their fish tacos without cheese, as it can be seen as a departure from traditional Mexican ingredients. However, adding cheese to fish tacos can provide a creamy texture and enhance the overall flavour of the dish.
When choosing cheese for fish tacos, it's important to consider the type of fish and the other ingredients used. For example, a mild-flavoured white fish such as cod, halibut, or tilapia might pair well with a sharper cheese like Cotija. On the other hand, a stronger-flavoured fish like salmon could be complemented by a milder cheese.
In addition to Cotija, other cheese options for fish tacos include feta, ricotta salata, farmer's cheese, and even some milder forms of cheddar or mozzarella. However, it's worth noting that traditional Mexican ingredients are typically favoured, and Cotija is a popular choice for this reason.
Ultimately, the choice of cheese for fish tacos depends on personal preference and the desired flavour profile. Cotija cheese is an excellent option for those seeking a Mexican-inspired flavour, a sharp and salty taste, or a crumbly texture to sprinkle over their tacos.
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Other cheeses to consider
While some people prefer fish tacos without cheese, there are several options that can complement the dish. The best cheese for fish tacos is considered to be cotija, a Mexican cheese that is mild, less salty than feta, and crumbles when grated.
- Feta – a Greek cheese that is salty and crumbly, similar to cotija but with a stronger flavour. It can be paired with a Greek-style fish taco, or used as a substitute for cotija.
- Queso fresco – a fresh, mild, and creamy Mexican cheese that can be crumbled over tacos. It is a good option for those who prefer a less salty cheese.
- Farmer's cheese – a mild, fresh, and slightly tangy cheese that can be crumbled or shredded. It is similar to queso fresco and can be used in a similar way.
- Ricotta salata – a salty and savoury Italian cheese made from ricotta curds that have been pressed, aged, and dried. It can be crumbled or grated, and is a good option for those who want a stronger flavour than cotija.
- Parmesan – a salty and savoury Italian cheese with a strong flavour. It can be used to crust fish, such as cod or halibut, or added as a topping to fish tacos. However, it may be considered too strong for seafood by some.
- Cheddar – a sharp and salty English cheese that can add a creamy texture to fish tacos. It can be paired with swordfish or used as a topping. For a spicier option, habanero cheddar or pepper jack can be used.
- Blue cheese – a strong and salty English cheese with a creamy texture. It can be used in a Buffalo-style fish taco for a unique flavour combination.
- Brie – a mild and creamy French cheese with a salty flavour. It can be used as a stuffing for halibut, paired with Dungeness crab and bay shrimp.
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Cheese on fish: yes or no?
There are mixed opinions on whether cheese should be added to fish tacos. Some people believe that cheese has no place in fish tacos, while others argue that it enhances the dish. Those who support the addition of cheese suggest that it makes the tacos more indulgent and can complement the fish when the right types of cheese are used. On the other hand, those who oppose it may prefer to emphasise the natural flavour of the fish or enjoy the crisp and fresh taste of tacos without cheese.
Types of cheese for fish tacos
The most popular cheese for fish tacos appears to be cotija, a Mexican cheese that is similar to feta but milder and less salty. It crumbles when grated, adding a unique texture to the tacos. Other suggested cheeses include queso fresco, feta, ricotta salata, farmer's cheese, and even sharp cheddar or pepper jack for those who like spicy flavours.
Types of fish for fish tacos
When it comes to choosing the right fish for fish tacos, a mild-flavoured white fish is often recommended. Examples include cod, halibut, tilapia, rockfish, barramundi, mahi-mahi, snapper, and bass. These fish are known for their delicate flavour and flaky texture, making them ideal for tacos.
Other ingredients and toppings
In addition to cheese, fish tacos can be enhanced with various ingredients and toppings. Some popular choices include cabbage, avocado, pico de gallo (a blend of red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro), hot sauces, and crema or sour cream to add a tangy and creamy element.
Ultimately, the decision to add cheese to fish tacos is a matter of personal preference. While some people enjoy the indulgent and flavourful combination, others prefer to emphasise the freshness and natural flavours of the fish. When it comes to cheese selection, cotija is a popular choice for its mild and crumbly texture, but other cheeses like queso fresco, feta, and cheddar can also be used depending on individual taste.
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How to prepare the fish
When it comes to preparing the fish for your tacos, there are a few methods you can choose from. You can cook your fish on the grill, in the oven, in an air fryer, or on the stovetop.
If you're using an oven, there are a few ways to go about it. One option is to bake the fish in a foil packet or parchment at 400°F until done. Alternatively, you can try the following method:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment or a silicone liner.
- In a small dish, mix together 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of your chosen fish.
- Lightly drizzle the fish with olive oil and top each piece with a dot of butter.
- Bake at 375˚F for 20-25 minutes. If you want a browned effect, you can broil for an additional 3-5 minutes.
For a grill, it's recommended to preheat to medium-high, lightly oil the grates, and cook the fish for 2-3 minutes per side.
If you're using an air fryer, you can marinate the fish for an hour or so, then cut the oil back to one tablespoon and air fry until cooked.
When it comes to the type of fish, a mild-flavoured white fish is a good option. Examples include cod, halibut, tilapia, or rockfish.
Don't forget to keep an eye on your fish while it cooks, as it can be quick and you don't want it to dry out!
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Other toppings to consider
While cheese is a controversial topic when it comes to fish tacos, with some people preferring the natural flavours of the fish to shine through, others argue that tacos without cheese are incomplete. If you fall into the latter category, there are several cheeses you can choose from to top your fish tacos.
Cotija cheese is a popular choice for fish tacos. It is a Mexican cheese that is similar to feta but milder and less salty. It also has a crumbly texture, which makes it ideal for sprinkling over tacos.
Queso fresco is another Mexican cheese that is recommended for fish tacos. It has a fresh, mild flavour and a soft, crumbly texture.
If you're looking for something with a bit more kick, you could try a spicy cheese like habanero cheddar or pepper jack. These cheeses will add a nice kick to your tacos and pair well with Mexican flavours.
For a Greek-inspired twist, feta cheese is a good option. Its salty, tangy flavour can complement the fish, and it also pairs well with other common taco toppings like avocado and cabbage.
If you're looking for a creamy texture, you could try ricotta salata or farmer's cheese. These cheeses have a mild flavour and a soft, spreadable consistency that can add a nice creaminess to your fish tacos.
Finally, for those who want a truly indulgent experience, a Parmesan crust on your fish taco could be the way to go. While this may be a less traditional option, it can add a unique salty and funky flavour to your taco.
In addition to these cheeses, you can also get creative with other toppings to enhance the flavour and texture of your fish tacos. Here are some ideas:
- Avocado or guacamole for a creamy, rich texture and healthy fats.
- Cabbage, either shredded or in a slaw, for a crunchy texture and a fresh flavour.
- Pico de gallo, a blend of red onion, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro, adds a tangy and colourful touch to your tacos.
- Sour cream or Greek yoghurt for a tangy and cooling effect, balancing out any spicy flavours.
- Hot sauces or chilli powders can be added to give your tacos a kick, with options like sriracha, cayenne pepper, or ancho chilli powder.
- Honey or agave nectar can be drizzled over the tacos to add a touch of sweetness and balance out any spicy or tangy flavours.
- Limes, either in the form of a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a lime crema, can brighten up your tacos with their acidity and tanginess.
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Frequently asked questions
The best cheese for fish tacos is cotija cheese. It is a Mexican cheese that is mild and less salty than feta cheese and crumbles as you grate or shred it.
Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as feta, queso fresco, or even a Mexican cheese blend, depending on your preference. Some people also use cheddar, although this is less common.
No, some people prefer not to include cheese in their fish tacos. Fish tacos are often served with crema, a sauce made from sour cream, mayo, lime juice, garlic powder, and sriracha, which can be a good substitute for cheese.
