How To Shop Queso Panela

Find Out More About This Delightful Mexican Food!

Food is magical. When placed at the family table, it brings us and our loved ones closer together. Food helps us understand different cultures in ways that nothing else can.

When a recipe is made with true, authentic ingredients, it can tell the story of an entire culture.

Queso Panela is one of those traditional dishes that bring the real flavor of Mexican culture. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or your palette is rejoicing again, every bite of Panela cheese will certainly take you places.

In either case, this is what you need to know about Panela cheese and why it is so important to Mexican cuisine.

Jump to any section:

What is Queso Panela?
How do I use it?
How do I choose the right Queso Panela?
How do I store it?

What is Queso Panela?

Queso Panela (pronounced “pan-elle-a”), also known as basket cheese, is a fresh-tasting Mexican cheese made from cow’s whole milk.

Its fresh, milky aroma and flavor make it ideal for enjoying as a snack, and it can also be crumbled or sliced to use as a topping or for stuffing.

Panela cheese doesn’t melt; it softens and turns golden when grilled, a savory dish on its own.

Also, the lower sodium and fat content of this whole-milk cheese is great for people following a healthier diet.

How do I use it?

Because of its versatility and flavor, panela is a staple ingredient in many classic Mexican dishes, like tortilla soup and stuffed peppers.

Here are some of our favorite recipes for this delicious cheese:

• Fresh Salad with Panela Cheese
• Tortilla Soup
• Skirt Steak with Grilled Panela Cheese

How do I choose the right Queso Panela?

Using high-quality ingredients is vital to creating an authentic meal. So, selecting a real traditional Panela cheese is essential for connecting — or reconnecting — with family, friends and the festive Mexican culture.

Keep in mind the following characteristics when choosing the best Queso Panela:

• A bright white color
• Firm yet flexible surface with a curdy texture when sliced
• Resembles fresh Ricotta cheese in appearance

How do I store it?

Queso Panela is a great way to add flavor and texture to your dishes, but it does have an expiration date.

Storage:

Queso Panela should be stored in the refrigerator at all times. It needs to be kept cold, so that the fats don’t start separating from the rest of the cheese. If left out at room temperature, it will spoil quickly (within 24 hours).

Container:

You can store Queso Panela in any type of plastic container with a tight lid. Just make sure that there is no air or moisture in contact with the cheese — otherwise, mold could grow on top of it and make it unsafe for consumption.

Best-By Date:

Queso Panela has an approximate shelf life of two weeks after opening. Once opened, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and keep refrigerated until ready to use!

And now you’re “listo!”

You are now equipped with the knowledge to recreate countless meals with the flavors you fondly remember, or to cook an unforgettable meal for your loved ones.

With Los Altos Queso Panela, you’ll always get the best taste and flavors. Don’t take our word for it; ask your local “carnicero.”