Authentic Mexican Cheeses

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Nowadays the thought of Mexican cuisine without cheese is ludicrous, but it hasn’t always been so. Before the arrival of Europeans in what now is Mexico, animals like cows and goats—and their milk products—were unknown there. These animals (and most other common livestock) arrived with the Spaniards.

The Spanish word for cheese is queso, pronounced KEH-soh.

There are dozens of delicious, genuine Mexican quesos, each one with its own charm, so don't settle for the often uninspiring product labeled “Mexican cheese” or “Mexican blend” that is so often sold in the United States. (Don´t even get us started about canned “nacho cheese product” or "cheese dip" in a jar. They may be yummy in some contexts, but they are not Mexican!) It is well worth your time to look for a Hispanic store or merchant who sells authentic Latin American cheeses, so you can savor the rich varieties of products that are out there.

We've collected a few suggestions for the most iconic Mexican quesos based on uses for fresh cheeses, melting cheeses, and aged cheeses. Never hesitate, however, to use any of these products in any way you like.