Cheese story
What is Queso Fresco?
A fresh Mexican cheese that crumbles easily and softens without fully melting.
Origin
Mexico-wide, Mexico
Milk
cow or cow/goat
Board role
Fresh / bright
Cheese profile
Country
Mexico
Region
Mexico-wide
Milk type
cow or cow/goat
Texture
fresh, crumbly
Rind
none
Ageing
fresh
Vegetarian
Check the rennet / producer
Milk treatment
yes
Flavour profile: mild, milky, lightly salty
Origin, protection and character
Queso Fresco 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 Queso Fresco
tacos, enchiladas, salads, beans
Good food matches
salsa
lime
coriander
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.
