Cheese story
What is Panela?
A fresh Mexican basket cheese that holds its shape when heated.
Origin
Mexico-wide, Mexico
Milk
cow
Board role
Fresh / bright
Cheese profile
Country
Mexico
Region
Mexico-wide
Milk type
cow
Texture
fresh semi-soft
Rind
basket-marked
Ageing
fresh
Vegetarian
Check the rennet / producer
Milk treatment
yes
Flavour profile: mild, milky, slightly springy
Origin, protection and character
Panela comes from Mexico, especially Mexico-wide. Its character comes from the balance of milk, texture, rind, ageing and local serving traditions.
Protected status
None
Typical ageing
fresh
How to serve Panela
grilling, salads, snacks, sandwiches
Good food matches
tomatoes
avocado
tortillas
Serving tip
Take it out of the fridge before serving so the texture softens and the flavour opens up. Softer cheeses usually need less time than hard aged cheeses.
Buying tip
Look for clean aroma, good texture and a style that matches the board: fresh and bright, soft and creamy, hard and nutty, blue and salty, or bold and washed-rind.
