Oaxaca Cheese or Queso Oaxaca (wuh·HAA·kah) originates from the state of Oaxaca in Mexico for which it is named. Oaxaca cheese is a semi-soft, white, artisan cheese made from whole cow’s milk. Oaxaca cheese is made with the same cheese process, pasta filata, that is used to make caciocavallo, stracciata, provolone and mozzarella among others. It is thought that this cheese-making process was brought to Mexico from Italy by Dominican monks.
How is Oaxaca Cheese Made
Contents
- 1 How is Oaxaca Cheese Made
- 2 How Does Oaxaca Cheese Taste
- 3 What is Oaxaca Cheese Similar To
- 4 Mexican frying cheese
- 5 Glossary of Cheese Terms
- 6 Feria del Queso Tonantzintla 2022
- 7 Substitutes for Oaxaca Cheese
- 8 8th Annual Festival del Queso Artesanal
- 9 How to Use Oaxaca Cheese
- 10 Can Dogs Eat Oaxaca Cheese?
- 11 The Ultimate Guide to Mexican Cheese
- 12 Can I Eat Oaxaca Cheese While Pregnant?
To make Oaxaca cheese, cow’s milk is warmed, curdled and allowed to rest. The resulting curds are cut into small pieces and the whey is drained off. The curds are allowed to rest and then steeped in hot water. When the curds begin to float, most of the liquid is removed again and the curds are kneaded and stretched until the desired soft, elastic consistency is obtained.
The cheese is then pulled into long ribbons which are commonly then wound into a round knot. This helps preserve its elasticity and creates its unmistakable presentation. Similar to mozzarella, Oaxaca cheese is traditionally dipped into salt water at the end of the process to form a thin, protective barrier to help maintain the required level of moisture.
How Does Oaxaca Cheese Taste
Oaxaca cheese is mildly earthy, buttery and slightly salty to taste. Commonly known as Quesillo, Oaxaca cheese melts well making it a popular cheese for quesadillas, tlayudas and queso fundido. It can also be grated and sprinkled over enchiladas, beans and salads.
What is Oaxaca Cheese Similar To
Oaxaca cheese is similar in taste to unaged Monterey jack and mozzarella cheese, but with a stringy texture. As you would imagine, American string cheese is the easiest substitute to find.

Mexican frying cheese

Glossary of Cheese Terms

Feria del Queso Tonantzintla 2022

Substitutes for Oaxaca Cheese

8th Annual Festival del Queso Artesanal

How to Use Oaxaca Cheese

Can Dogs Eat Oaxaca Cheese?

The Ultimate Guide to Mexican Cheese
