Oaxaca cheese, also known as Quesillo, is a traditional Mexican cheese that originates from the region of Oaxaca. It is a semi-soft, stringy cheese with a mild, creamy flavor. Here are some common tasting notes associated with Oaxaca cheese:
- Creamy: Oaxaca cheese has a rich and creamy taste that coats the palate. It has a smooth, velvety texture that melts beautifully when heated.
- Mild: The flavor of Oaxaca cheese is relatively mild, making it appealing to a wide range of palates. It has a gentle, milky taste with subtle hints of tanginess.
- Fresh: Oaxaca cheese is typically made with fresh cow’s milk, giving it a refreshing and clean taste. The freshness contributes to its delicate flavor profile.
- Buttery: There is a subtle buttery undertone to Oaxaca cheese, adding a hint of richness to its taste. This characteristic enhances its overall creamy texture.
- Slightly salty: While not overly salty, Oaxaca cheese has a mild saltiness that balances its creaminess. The saltiness enhances the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Delicate and sweet aroma: Oaxaca cheese has a gentle and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of fresh milk. It may also have floral notes, especially when it is made from grass-fed milk.
- Stringy texture: One of the unique features of Oaxaca cheese is its stringy texture. When pulled or melted, the cheese stretches into long strands, similar to mozzarella. This characteristic makes it a popular choice for dishes like quesadillas and enchiladas.
- Light tanginess: Oaxaca cheese may exhibit a subtle tanginess, which adds a pleasant zing to its flavor. The tanginess complements the creaminess, creating a well-balanced taste profile.
Overall, Oaxaca cheese offers a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor with a smooth texture. Its versatility makes it suitable for various dishes, including Mexican cuisine, sandwiches, salads, and even as a topping for pizza.