Queso fresco is a delicious cheese used in many different recipes. It can be hard to find, but it is worth searching for! If you can’t find queso fresco, or if you have some leftovers that you don’t know what to do with, freezing it might be the answer. In this blog post, we will discuss whether or not you can freeze queso fresco and how to do it!
Can you freeze queso fresco?
Yes, you can freeze queso fresco, but it’s essential to know that the texture and flavor of the cheese will change when it is frozen. Queso fresco is a fresh cheese, so it has high water content. When you freeze queso fresco, the water in the cheese expands and can break down the structure of the cheese.
It is called fresh cheese because it is not aged like other cheeses, which can spoil quickly. For this reason, you should only freeze queso fresco if you are sure you will use it within a few months.
Queso fresco can be used in many different recipes, but it is terrific in tacos or enchiladas. It can also be used as a topping for salads or soups.
It is sold in supermarkets with name brands such as “Cacique”, “La Chona”, “Ricos”, and “Supremo”.
When ready to use the frozen queso fresco, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once it is defrosted, use it just like fresh queso fresco.
Why shouldn’t you freeze queso fresco?
Queso fresco is a fresh cheese that can spoil quickly. For this reason, you should only freeze queso fresco if you are sure you will use it within a few months.
Frozen queso fresco will not be the same as fresh cheese. Freezing changes the texture of the cheese.
If you can, it is best to eat the cheese fresh.
How to freeze queso fresco?
The best way to freeze queso fresco is to cut the cheese first.
Preparing queso fresco for freezing
Cut the cheese into small cubes
Cutting the cheese into smaller pieces helps in freezing and thawing quickly. Large blocks take more time to freeze and thaw. Moreover, you can defrost the small amount you need. Unfortunately, you cannot refreeze the leftover softened cheese.
Transfer into a heavy-duty freezer bag
After cutting the cheese into cubes, you can place them in a freezer bag. But make sure to use a heavy-duty freezer bag so that it can prevent freezer burns.
Label and date the bag
It is essential to label the bag with the name and date. It will help you remember how long it has been in the freezer.
You can store it in the freezer for up to two months.
How to thaw the queso fresco?
The best way to thaw the cheese is in the refrigerator. You can also use the microwave, but do not overheat it, or the texture will change.
You can also defrost it at the kitchen counter to speed up the process. Consume the cheese the same day if you defrost this way.
When ready to use the frozen queso fresco, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
How long can it last in the refrigerator?
You can store queso fresco in the fridge for up to two weeks. After that, the quality of the cheese will start to decline. Storage in the refrigerator depends on whether the cheese is store-bought or homemade.
Store-bought cheese has longer shelf life than homemade cheese. However, if you want to store the cheese in the refrigerator, it is best to keep it in the body of the fridge where the temperature fluctuations will be the least.
Homemade queso fresco can only last 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
How long can fresh cheese last in the freezer?
Queso fresco can last in the freezer for up to two months. Beyond that, the quality of the cheese will start to decline.
Recipes that use this cheese
Tacos: queso fresco is a traditional topping for tacos.
Enchiladas: queso fresco can be used as a filling or topping for enchiladas.
Soups: queso fresco can be melted and added to soups for extra flavor.
Salads: queso fresco can be crumbled and added to salads. Its hard texture makes it a good ingredient for salads.
How to tell if queso fresco has gone wrong?
Like other fresh cheeses, queso fresco can spoil quickly. If you see any mold on the surface of the cheese, it should be discarded.
If the cheese has a sour smell, it indicates that it has gone wrong and should not be consumed.
What is the difference between paneer and queso fresco?
Paneer is an Indian cheese that is very similar to queso fresco. Both kinds of cheese are fresh and white and have a mild flavor. The main difference between paneer and queso fresco is how they are made. Paneer is on the softer side, but the queso fresco is a bit harder than the paneer.
Paneer is used to make Indian sweet as well as savory dishes while queso fresco is more prevalent in Mexican dishes.
Can you melt queso fresco?
No, queso fresco can not be melted. You can heat the cheese on low heat to add to make sauce or dip, but it will remain chunky and will not be as smooth. When heated, queso fresco becomes soft.
You can add Queso fresco to soups and casseroles for extra flavor. It is best for crumbling rather than melting.
Queso fresco is a versatile cheese used in many different dishes. If you decide to freeze it, the best way to do it is by cutting it into cubes first. This will help maintain its texture when thawed.
So there you have it! everything you need to know about can you freeze queso fresco. So now that you know, the answer is sure to enjoy your queso fresco while it’s fresh!
