Taqueria Burritos: What's The Cheesy Secret?

When it comes to the cheese in taqueria burritos, there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique flavour and texture. One popular choice is shredded cheddar, known for its sharp and salty taste. Another option is Monterey Jack, which has a mild and creamy flavour. For those who enjoy a mix of cow and goat milk, Manchego cheese, originally from Spain but commonly used in Mexico, offers a nutty flavour and adds texture to the burrito. Additionally, Asadero cheese is ideal if you're looking for something that melts easily. Lastly, Queso Fresco, a soft and salty farmer-style cheese, is commonly used in Mexican cuisine and can be found in Latin American grocery stores.

Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack

Bean and cheese burritos are a classic, quick, and easy meal. They are a great option for making ahead and meal prep, and can even be frozen for later.

The key to a delicious bean and cheese burrito is in the preparation of the beans and the choice of cheese. For the beans, you'll want to use refried beans and add flavour with ingredients such as salsa, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and diced onions. As for the cheese, a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack is a popular choice.

The process of assembling the burrito is also important. First, spread a layer of shredded cheese in the middle of a flour tortilla, followed by the refried bean mixture. This ensures that after rolling, the cheese ends up on top and the beans stay on the bottom. Then, fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up from the bottom.

Once the burritos are assembled, they can be baked in the oven for about 12 minutes or toasted on a stovetop until heated through. The result is a gooey, delicious, and satisfying meal.

While the combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack is a great option, you can also use just one type of cheese if preferred.

Queso fresco

The cheese is a great addition to burritos, as it melts well and has a robust flavour. It is also a popular choice for tacos and can be used on guacamole.

For those who enjoy a more substantial and hearty burrito, a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is a popular choice. This mixture of cheeses adds a creamy texture and a sharp flavour to the burrito.

Cotija cheese

Cotija is often used as a "finishing" cheese in Mexican cuisine, such as a topping for burritos, soups, salads, beans, tostadas, or tacos. It is also commonly used to make Elotes, or Mexican street corn. The cheese is grilled on corn on the cob, which is typically covered in a mixture of mayonnaise, chilli powder, and lime juice. The salty, tangy flavour of the cheese balances out the sweetness of the corn.

Cotija can be purchased in small rounds or large blocks, and is often sold already grated, similar to Parmesan. The cheese softens slightly when exposed to heat but does not melt, making it ideal for crumbling and sprinkling on top of dishes.

In terms of substitutes, if cotija is unavailable, acceptable alternatives for fresh cotija include feta or queso fresco. For aged cotija, suitable substitutes include ricotta salata, Parmesan, or Romano cheese.

Manchego

The texture of Manchego cheese is an essential part of the experience. When young, it has a semi-soft and slightly crumbly texture, becoming firmer and more compact as it ages. The cheese is typically aged for different periods, ranging from a few months to several years. The younger Manchego is mild and creamy, with hints of fresh grass and herbs. As it ages, it acquires nutty undertones and a stronger, more complex taste.

Asadero cheese

In the past, recipes for asadero cheese may have used poisonous silverleaf nightshade berries to curdle the milk instead of rennet. Today, however, most asadero cheese is made with traditional practices using cow's milk, salt, rennet, and cheese cultures. This cheese is typically sold in 12oz, 5lb, or 12lb bars and has a shelf life of 90 days from packaging.

Asadero is a popular choice for those seeking an authentic Mexican cheese experience. Its mild flavour and excellent melting properties make it a versatile ingredient that can enhance the taste of various dishes, from tacos to hamburgers.

Frequently asked questions