Cheese And Pork Tacos: Perfect Pairing

When it comes to tacos, cheese is a must. But what kind of cheese goes best with pork tacos? There are a few options to consider. Firstly, cotija cheese is a popular choice for pork tacos, as its crumbly texture and flavour pairs well with the meat. If you can't get your hands on cotija, feta cheese can be a good substitute. Alternatively, you could go for a Mexican blend of cheese, or even shredded jack cheese. For a crispy texture, you could try making a crispy cheese taco by placing a small pile of shredded cheese directly into a skillet and cooking until bubbly and caramelized. This creates an intense cheese flavour and an amazing crunchy texture. So, the next time you're making pork tacos, be sure to consider the cheese options to take your tacos to the next level!

Cotija cheese

When it comes to tacos, cotija cheese can be sprinkled on top or mixed into the filling. It adds a nice, salty, crumbly texture and flavour to the dish. For those who want to try something new, cotija cheese is a great option to experiment with.

Feta cheese

For those who prefer their tacos on the simpler side, feta cheese can be added to corn or flour tortillas with pulled pork carnitas, crunchy cabbage, red onion, and cilantro. A squeeze of lime on each taco adds a nice touch and enhances the flavour.

Jack cheese

If you're making crispy pork tacos, jack cheese is an ideal filling as it melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to the crispy shell. You can use either shredded or sliced jack cheese, depending on your preference. For a simple pork taco, try using corn tortillas, shredded pork, jack cheese, and garnishes like salsa, avocado, and cilantro.

For a fun twist, you can also make crispy cheese tacos by placing a small pile of shredded jack cheese directly into a non-stick skillet and cooking until it's bubbly and caramelized. Then, simply fill the crispy cheese taco shell with your choice of fillings, such as pulled pork, pico de gallo, and sour cream.

If you're looking for a specific brand, Sargento® Ultra Thin® Pepper Jack Cheese Slices are a great option for pork tacos. You can pair it with boneless pork shoulder tossed with chili powder, cumin, and garlic salt, and serve it in warmed taco shells with salsa, cilantro, and avocado.

So, if you're looking to add a mild, creamy, and stretchy element to your pork tacos, jack cheese is definitely the way to go!

Crumbly aged cheese

Queso añejo is a Mexican crumble cheese, and it is often used on top of refried beans and salads. It can also be baked or grilled, and its sharp flavour will add a kick to your tacos. It is a dry and crumbly cheese, similar to feta or parmesan, and is a popular Mexican white cheese.

If you are making pork carnitas tacos, this cheese will be a great addition. You can also add it to a salad, soup, or beans. It is a very versatile cheese and will add a salty, sharp flavour to your meal.

Añejo means "aged" in Spanish, and this cheese certainly packs a punch. It is a great way to add an authentic Mexican twist to your tacos. It is similar to ricotta salata or parmesan in terms of texture and sharpness, and will add a nice crunch to your meal.

So, if you are looking for a cheese to top off your pork tacos, crumbly aged cheese is a perfect choice. It will add a sharp, salty flavour and a nice texture to your meal.

Shredded cheese

Cheese Varieties

The type of cheese you choose for your shredded cheese topping can significantly impact the overall flavour profile of your pork tacos. Here are some popular options:

• Cotija Cheese: This is a traditional Mexican cheese that is often used in tacos. It has a salty, tangy flavour and a crumbly texture, similar to feta cheese. Cotija cheese is a popular choice for pork tacos and can be found in many grocery stores.
• Jack Cheese: Shredded jack cheese is a common topping for tacos and can be easily found. It has a mild, creamy flavour that pairs well with the other ingredients in pork tacos.
• Mexican Blend Cheese: If you're looking for a convenient option, shredded Mexican blend cheese is a great choice. It typically includes a combination of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, and queso quesadilla, providing a blend of flavours and meltability.
• Queso Fresco: This is a fresh Mexican cheese that is mild, slightly salty, and crumbly. It is often used as a topping for tacos and can be a good substitute for cotija cheese.

Preparing the Cheese

To prepare shredded cheese for your pork tacos, it is best to shred the cheese yourself using a grater or food processor. This ensures that the cheese is fresh and has the desired texture. Pre-shredded cheese can be used in a pinch, but it may not melt or blend as well with the other ingredients.

Amount of Cheese

The amount of shredded cheese you use will depend on your preference and the number of tacos you are making. As a guideline, use about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of shredded cheese per taco. This will provide a generous amount of cheese that complements the other toppings and fillings.

Combining with Other Toppings

• Pickled Red Onions: The tanginess of pickled red onions pairs well with the creaminess of shredded cheese. They add a crunchy texture and a vibrant colour to your tacos.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves add a bright, herbal flavour to your tacos. They also provide a nice contrast to the richness of the cheese and other toppings.
• Avocado or Guacamole: The creaminess of avocado or guacamole blends well with shredded cheese, creating a smooth and indulgent mouthfeel.
• Sour Cream or Crema: A drizzle of sour cream or Mexican crema can enhance the creaminess of the shredded cheese and provide a refreshing tanginess.
• Hot Sauce or Salsa: If you like your tacos with a kick, add some hot sauce or salsa. These toppings will complement the shredded cheese and give your tacos an extra layer of flavour.

Final Thoughts

Frequently asked questions