The Perfect White Mexican Cheese And Guava Pairing

Guava and white cheese is a traditional Colombian dessert, also known as casado in some parts of the country. The combination of salty cheese and sweet guava paste is a heavenly match. The white cheese used in this dessert is called Queso Blanco, which is a type of white cheese commonly found in Latin America. In addition to Colombia, this dessert pairing is also enjoyed in Brazil, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico.

Queso blanco is a white Mexican cheese that goes with guava

In Mexican cuisine, queso blanco is traditionally made from cow's milk, while another variety, queso fresco, may include a combination of cow's and goat's milk. These cheeses are often used as toppings for spicy Mexican dishes, added to salads or soups, or used in melted form for quesadillas.

One popular combination featuring queso blanco is with guava, a sweet and slightly tart fruit. The salty and savoury flavour of queso blanco pairs well with the sweetness of guava, creating a delicious and unique flavour combination. This pairing is commonly found in Colombian cuisine, where it is known as "Bocadillo con Queso" or "casado" in some regions.

The dish typically consists of slices of queso blanco and guava paste served together, although it can also be cut into cubes or small pieces and stacked with other fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple. This combination of queso blanco and guava can be served as a simple dessert, appetizer, or snack and is a delightful blend of sweet and savoury flavours.

Guava and cheese empanadas are a tasty treat

The type of cheese used in guava and cheese empanadas can vary, but it is typically a white cheese such as queso blanco, queso fresco, or manchego. Queso blanco, or "white cheese" in Spanish, is a general term for various types of white cheeses found in Latin America, with the specific variety depending on the region. It is often used as a topping for spicy Mexican dishes like empanadas and enchiladas. Manchego cheese, on the other hand, is a Spanish sheep's milk cheese from the La Mancha region. For guava and cheese empanadas, either the traditional Spanish variety or the Mexican-style cow's milk version can be used.

Guava paste, also known as membrillo or pasta de guayaba, is made from fresh fruit, sugar, lime juice, and water. The process involves seeding and blending the fruit, straining it, and then simmering it with the other ingredients until a thick, dark brown mixture is formed. This sweet and tangy paste pairs perfectly with the salty, creamy cheeses used in the empanadas.

To make guava and cheese empanadas, simply fill the empanada dough with slices of guava paste and cheese, fold and seal the dough, and then bake or fry until golden brown. The result is a flaky, crispy treat with a burst of flavour. This unique combination of guava and cheese is a delightful dessert or party appetizer, often enjoyed with a cocktail or a glass of white wine.

So, if you're looking for a quick and easy dessert or appetiser that's sure to impress, why not try making some guava and cheese empanadas? With their sweet and savoury flavours and flaky, crispy texture, they're sure to be a hit!

Guava and cheese is a Colombian dessert

Guava and cheese is a simple Colombian dessert that is easy to make and only requires two ingredients. It is also known as "casado" in some parts of Colombia and Romeo and Julieta in Brazil. This dish combines salty cheese and sweet guava paste, resulting in a heavenly flavour profile.

For the cheese component, options include white cheese (queso blanco), queso fresco, mozzarella cheese, feta, brie, or cream cheese. In terms of the guava element, guava paste is a sweet paste made with fresh guavas and sugar. It can be found in Latin markets, online, or in the International aisle of your local supermarket.

When preparing this dessert, simply slice or cut the guava paste and cheese into squares and place them on a serving plate. It can also be served as part of a fruit platter. This combination of sweet and salty flavours is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for a dessert or appetizer.

In some Caribbean countries, a similar dish is made using empanadas filled with sweet guava paste and melted gooey Manchego cheese. This combination is also popular in Spain as tapas and is commonly paired with white wine. The versatility of guava and cheese knows no bounds, as it can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or dessert, and it can be served warm or at room temperature.

Guava and cheese is called Romeo and Julieta in Brazil

In Brazil, the combination of guava paste and soft cheese is known as "Romeu e Julieta" (Romeo and Juliet). This unique and simple dish can be served as a dessert or an appetiser. The guava paste, also known as goiabada in Portuguese, is a preserve made from guava and sugar. It has a thick, jellied consistency, often found in brick form. The cheese used in this dish is traditionally a soft, white, slightly salty cheese from the region of Minas Gerais, called queijo minas. However, Mexican Queso Fresco or Queso Blanco are commonly used as substitutes outside of Brazil.

The pairing of sweet and salty flavours in the Brazilian Romeo and Juliet is said to be like the star-crossed lovers themselves—a perfect match. This flavour combination is a common occurrence in Brazilian cuisine, appearing in dishes such as empanadas and flan. The simplicity of the dish is part of its charm, with the guava paste and cheese simply sliced and served together, either stacked on toothpicks or arranged on a plate.

In other parts of Latin America, such as Colombia, the combination of guava paste and cheese is also popular. In Colombia, this dish is known as "Bocadillo con Queso" or "casado". Similarly to the Brazilian version, a variety of white cheeses can be used, including queso blanco, queso fresco, mozzarella, feta, brie, or cream cheese. This dish is also served as a dessert or appetiser, showcasing the heavenly pairing of salty cheese and sweet guava paste.

Guava and cheese can be served as an appetizer

For a simple yet elegant appetizer, slice some white cheese, such as queso blanco, queso fresco, mozzarella, feta, brie, or cream cheese, and pair it with slices of guava paste. This classic duo, known as "Bocadillo con Queso" in Colombia, is a delightful way to start your meal or serve at a party. You can also add a twist to this combination by including fruits like strawberries, kiwi, or pineapple.

If you're feeling more adventurous, try making guava and cheese empanadas. These flaky pastries are filled with sweet guava paste and melted gooey cheese, such as Manchego or cream cheese. They are a perfect choice for a sweet appetizer or dessert and pair wonderfully with a cocktail or a glass of white wine.

Guava and cheese combinations are not limited to just these options. You can also create your own unique dishes, such as baked plantains stuffed with guava and cheese, guava paste and cheese pastries, or even a ripe plantain cake with guava and cheese. The versatility of this pairing knows no bounds!

Whether served as a sophisticated appetizer or a delectable dessert, guava and cheese are a match made in heaven. The sweet and salty flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a culinary experience that is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

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