Cheese And Barbacoa: Perfect Pairing For Tacos

Barbacoa tacos are a delicious and juicy meal, perfect for a fun taco night with family and friends. The type of cheese you choose for your barbacoa tacos can elevate the entire experience. While there are many options to choose from, some popular choices include cotija, queso fresco, crumbled feta, and goat cheese. If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own cheese shells using shredded cheddar cheese and a spoon to shape them. So, the next time you're planning a taco night, don't forget to consider the type of cheese you want to pair with your barbacoa filling!

Classic cheeses for barbacoa tacos

Barbacoa tacos are a delicious and juicy meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun Taco Tuesday. While there are many ways to make your tacos unique, the cheese you choose can make a big difference. Here are some classic cheeses that are commonly used in barbacoa tacos:

Cotija Cheese

Cotija cheese is a popular choice for tacos in general and goes well with barbacoa. It has a salty and tangy flavour, sometimes described as funky, and is similar to feta cheese in taste and texture. Cotija cheese is a good option if you want a classic taco flavour.

Queso Fresco

Queso fresco is another Mexican cheese that pairs well with barbacoa. It is a fresh, mild, and slightly salty cheese that crumbles easily, making it perfect for sprinkling on top of your tacos.

Mexican Blend

A Mexican blend of shredded cheeses is also a great option for barbacoa tacos. These blends typically include a variety of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso blanco, which melt together beautifully and add a creamy texture and savoury flavour to your tacos.

Cheddar Cheese

For a more widely available option, cheddar cheese is always a classic choice for tacos. It has a sharp flavour and melts well, making it a versatile option for many different types of tacos, including barbacoa.

Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a salty and tangy cheese that can add a nice creamy texture to your barbacoa tacos. It is similar to cotija cheese and is a good substitute if you are looking for something more readily available.

Goat Cheese

If you are feeling adventurous, goat cheese is a unique option that pairs exceptionally well with barbacoa, especially when it is still steaming. Goat cheese has a moist and salty flavour with a tangy, funky twist. It is sure to add a distinct flavour to your tacos.

When choosing cheese for your barbacoa tacos, consider the flavour profile you want to create and the texture you prefer. Whether you opt for a classic Mexican cheese or a more widely available option, your barbacoa tacos are sure to be delicious!

Cheeses to use for a steaming barbacoa

Barbacoa is a popular dish in Mexico and the US, often served in tacos. When it comes to choosing a cheese to accompany steaming barbacoa, there are several options that can enhance the flavour of this juicy and ultra-flavoursome dish.

Cotija cheese is a great choice for tacos and can be easily crumbled over the top. It is a typical Mexican cheese with a salty, tangy flavour and a crumbly texture, similar to feta. This cheese is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a good option for those who like to experiment with their tacos.

Queso fresco is another Mexican cheese that pairs well with barbacoa. This cheese has a mild, fresh flavour and a springy texture, similar to that of paneer. It is a good melting cheese, which makes it ideal for tacos as it can be sprinkled on top and then melted slightly to bind the other toppings together.

For a more classic option, Oaxaca or queso blanco are traditional choices for barbacoa tacos. These cheeses are likely to be familiar and comforting, with a mild flavour and good melting ability. They can be shredded and sprinkled over the top of the taco, adding a stringy, comforting texture.

For a unique and bold flavour, goat's cheese is an excellent choice for steaming barbacoa. This cheese has a distinct, tangy flavour with a moist, crumbly texture. It is likely to be a memorable addition to the taco, offering something a little different from the typical cheese choices.

Finally, for those who enjoy a more interactive dining experience, cheddar cheese can be used to make taco shells. By melting piles of shredded cheddar cheese in the oven and then draping them over a spoon, crispy, edible cheese shells can be formed. These shells can be filled with barbacoa and other toppings, creating a unique and tasty alternative to traditional tacos.

How to make cheese taco shells

Cheese taco shells are a great gluten-free, low-carb alternative to traditional corn or flour tortillas. They are simple to make and only require a few ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese (you can also use pre-made cheese shells)
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Wooden spoons or other utensils with round handles
• Aluminium foil

Optional Ingredients:

Spices such as cumin and chili powder

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place piles of shredded Cheddar cheese onto the baking sheet, using about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of cheese per taco shell. Make sure the piles are spaced about 2 inches apart, as the cheese will expand when melted. If you want to add spices, sprinkle them over the cheese piles now.

Bake the cheese for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges start to turn crispy and brown. While the cheese is baking, set up your drying station by balancing wooden spoons or other utensils with round handles horizontally between two tall cans or glasses.

Once the cheese is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 1 minute. Then, use a spatula to lift the cheese circles and drape them over the handles of the utensils. Allow them to cool and harden for about 5 minutes.

Once the cheese shells are firm, fill them with your favourite taco fillings. For barbacoa tacos, you can fill the cheese shells with shredded beef, avocado, onions, and cheese. Enjoy!

Tips:

• Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Make sure the cheese circles are uniform in size and thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Set up multiple drying stations so you can hang all the shells at once.
• Make sure the edges of the cheese are browned and bubbly before removing them from the oven; otherwise, they won't get crispy.
• Work quickly when shaping the shells, as the cheese will become less pliable as it cools.
• Allow the shells to cool completely before filling them to ensure maximum crispness.

How to make barbacoa tacos in a slow cooker

Barbacoa tacos are a delicious and juicy meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night with friends. Here's a step-by-step guide to making mouth-watering barbacoa tacos in a slow cooker:

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds of beef chuck roast
• Chipotles in adobo sauce (2-5 peppers)
• Garlic cloves, minced (4-5 cloves)
• Lime juice (about 1/4 cup)
• Apple cider vinegar (2-3 tablespoons)
• Cumin (1-2 tablespoons)
• Oregano (1/2-1 tablespoon)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Ground cloves (about 1/4 teaspoon)
• Beef stock or broth (1/2 to 3/4 cup)
• Bay leaves (2-3)
• Optional: onion, avocado, cilantro, and tortillas for serving

Instructions:

• Cut the beef chuck roast into large chunks, around 2-3 inch pieces.
• Season the beef chunks generously with salt and pepper.
• Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer the seared meat to a slow cooker.
• In a separate bowl, combine chipotles, garlic, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, ground cloves, and beef stock. Mix well.
• Pour the marinade over the beef in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaves.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-9 hours, or until the meat is tender and can be easily shredded.
• Remove and discard the bay leaves. Take out the beef chunks and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and let it marinate in the sauce for at least 10 more minutes.
• To serve, add the barbacoa to tortillas. Top with diced onions, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Cheese for Barbacoa Tacos:

While cheese is optional for barbacoa tacos, you can choose from a variety of options to add a creamy and savoury touch. Here are some cheese suggestions:

• Cotija cheese: This Mexican cheese is commonly used for tacos and adds a salty, tangy flavour.
• Queso fresco: Another Mexican cheese that is mild and slightly crumbly, similar to feta cheese.
• Mexican blend: You can also find pre-shredded Mexican cheese blends that typically include a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses.
• Cheddar cheese: A classic, sharp cheddar cheese can also work well with the flavours of barbacoa.
• Feta cheese: As suggested in one of the recipes, feta cheese can add a nice salty and tangy flavour to your barbacoa tacos.

Other toppings for barbacoa tacos

Barbacoa tacos are a delicious meal, full of flavour and perfect for a family dinner. While the barbacoa is cooking, you can prepare a variety of toppings to serve alongside the tacos. Here are some ideas for toppings, aside from cheese:

Fresh Herbs & Veggies

Add refreshing flavours and a satisfying crunch with chopped cilantro, radishes, fresh onions, or pickled red onions. You could also add lettuce, tomatoes and avocado slices or cubes.

Sauces & Salsas

You can’t go wrong with the classic guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream combo. But if you want to amp it up, try a lime crema or chipotle sauce for a little heat. You could also make a creamy avocado lime dressing, healthy ranch dressing, or pineapple sauce.

Sides

Why not serve your tacos with a side of coconut rice and black beans, or, if you're looking for something more traditional, try arroz and frijoles refritos.

Frequently asked questions