Panela cheese, also known as queso panela, is a popular type of cheese commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crumbly texture that makes it perfect for crumbling over salads, tacos, or other dishes. However, there may be times when you need to substitute panela cheese for a variety of reasons, such as dietary restrictions or unavailability. In this article, we will explore the 6 best substitutes for panela cheese that you can use in your cooking.
What is Panela Cheese?
Panela is very smooth and creamy, with a delectable fresh milk flavor. It will become pliable at high temperatures without melting or otherwise changing form.
The cheese is served with either garlic or pepper paste already spread on it, since it readily absorbs these flavors. When cooked, it becomes a golden brown and crumbles readily for snacks like quesadillas.
While the fried cheese, or panela, is delicious on its own, it is most often seen in starter dishes such nopal salads and quesadillas.
Best Panela Cheese Substitutes
1. Queso Blanco
Queso blanco is a white, crumbly cheese that has a mild flavor and a texture similar to that of panela cheese. It is made from cow’s milk and is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It can be crumbled over salads, added to tacos, or used as a filling for enchiladas or tamales.
Queso blanco is also a great substitute for panela cheese because it is readily available in most grocery stores. It can be found in the dairy aisle or in the section that sells Hispanic foods. Additionally, it is relatively affordable and has a longer shelf life than some other types of cheese.
2. Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a crumbly cheese that has a tangy flavor and a salty taste. It is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, but it can also be used as a substitute for panela cheese. Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and can be crumbled over salads, used as a filling for pies or quiches, or added to pizzas.
Feta cheese is also a good option for those who are looking for a cheese that is lower in fat and calories than panela cheese. It is made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep’s milk and goat’s milk, and it is typically lower in fat and calories than most other types of cheese.
3. Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi cheese is a type of cheese that is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is a semi-hard cheese that has a high melting point, which makes it perfect for grilling or frying. Halloumi cheese has a salty taste and a slightly rubbery texture that is similar to that of panela cheese.
Halloumi cheese can be used as a substitute for panela cheese in recipes that require grilling or frying. It can be grilled or fried and added to salads, sandwiches, or other dishes. Additionally, halloumi cheese is a good option for those who are looking for a cheese that is high in protein.
4. Cotija Cheese
Cotija cheese is a hard, crumbly cheese that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It has a salty taste and a slightly tangy flavor that is similar to that of panela cheese. Cotija cheese can be crumbled over salads, added to tacos, or used as a filling for enchiladas or tamales.
Cotija cheese is a good substitute for panela cheese because it has a similar texture and flavor. It can be found in most grocery stores that sell Hispanic foods and is relatively affordable. Additionally, cotija cheese has a longer shelf life than some other types of cheese.
5. Ricotta Salata
Ricotta salata is a type of cheese that is commonly used in Italian cuisine. It is a hard, crumbly cheese that has a salty taste and a slightly tangy flavor. Ricotta salata can be crumbled over salads, used as a filling for pasta dishes, or added to pizzas.
Ricotta salata is a good substitute for panela cheese because it has a similar texture and flavor. It can be found in most grocery stores that sell Italian foods and is relatively affordable. Additionally, ricotta salata is lower in fat and calories than panela cheese, making it a healthier alternative.
6. Queso Fresco
Queso fresco is a soft, crumbly cheese that is commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It has a mild flavor and a slightly tangy taste that is similar to that of panela cheese. Queso fresco can be crumbled over salads, added to tacos, or used as a filling for enchiladas or tamales.
Queso fresco is a good substitute for panela cheese because it has a similar texture and flavor. It can be found in most grocery stores that sell Hispanic foods and is relatively affordable. Additionally, queso fresco is lower in fat and calories than panela cheese, making it a healthier alternative.
Conclusion
There are many substitutes for panela cheese that can be used in your cooking. Whether you are looking for a cheese that is lower in fat and calories, or you have dietary restrictions, there is a cheese alternative that can work for you.
Queso blanco, feta cheese, halloumi cheese, cotija cheese, ricotta salata and queso fresco are all great options that can be found in most grocery stores. So, next time you need to substitute panela cheese, try one of these alternatives and discover a new favorite cheese!
