One of the most popular cheeses in Mexican cuisine is Oaxaca cheese, which is known for its stringy texture and mild taste. At 80 calories per 1 oz (28 g) serving, Oaxaca cheese is a relatively low-calorie cheese that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in various recipes.
Oaxaca cheese contains 6 grams of fat, 1 gram of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of protein per serving. It's also a good source of calcium, providing about 15% of the daily recommended value. This makes it a nutritious addition to any diet, especially for those who are looking to increase their intake of calcium and protein.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of Oaxaca cheese, as well as some tips and recipe ideas for incorporating it into your meals.
Calories in Oaxaca Cheese
As mentioned earlier, Oaxaca cheese is a relatively low-calorie cheese, with only 80 calories per 1 oz (28 g) serving. This makes it a great snack option that won't derail your diet.
Fat Content in Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese has 6 grams of fat per 1 oz (28 g) serving, of which 4 grams are saturated fat. While this is not a particularly high amount of fat, it's important to consume cheese in moderation as it can still contribute to your overall calorie and fat intake.
Carbohydrates in Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese is a low-carbohydrate cheese, with only 1 gram of carbs per 1 oz (28 g) serving. This makes it a suitable option for those who are following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Protein Content in Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese is a good source of protein, providing 6 grams per 1 oz (28 g) serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making Oaxaca cheese a nutritious addition to your diet.
Calcium in Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese is a good source of calcium, providing about 15% of the daily recommended value per 1 oz (28 g) serving. Calcium is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as for proper muscle and nerve function.
Benefits of Oaxaca Cheese
In addition to being a good source of protein and calcium, Oaxaca cheese is also a good source of phosphorus, which is important for bone health. It's also a good source of vitamin A, which is important for eye health and immune function.
Consumption of Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese can be consumed in various ways, such as in quesadillas, tacos, and enchiladas. It can also be enjoyed as a snack on its own or with crackers. It's important to consume cheese in moderation, as it can be high in calories and fat.
Recipe Ideas with Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca cheese can be used in various recipes, such as quesadillas, enchiladas, and salads. It can also be grated over soups or used as a topping for pizza. Here are some recipe ideas to try: - Chicken and Oaxaca cheese enchiladas
- Shrimp and Oaxaca cheese quesadillas
- Oaxaca cheese-topped tomato soup
- Grilled Oaxaca cheese salad with avocado and cherry tomatoes
Storage Tips for Oaxaca Cheese
To keep Oaxaca cheese fresh, it's best to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. It can also be frozen for up to 6 months, but it's important to thaw it in the refrigerator before using it.
Variations of Oaxaca Cheese
There are various variations of Oaxaca cheese, such as queso de bola, which is a round ball-shaped cheese that is usually used for grating. There's also queso fresco, which is a crumbly fresh cheese that is often used in salads and salsas. Another variation is queso asadero, which is similar to Oaxaca cheese but with a firmer texture.
Try incorporating Oaxaca cheese into your next Mexican-inspired meal for a delicious and nutritious boost of protein and calcium.
5 FAQs About Oaxaca Cheese
What is Oaxaca Cheese?
Oaxaca cheese is a type of Mexican cheese that originated in the state of Oaxaca. It is a semi-soft, white cheese that has a stringy texture similar to mozzarella. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, especially in dishes like quesadillas, enchiladas, and chiles rellenos.
How many calories are there in Oaxaca Cheese?
One ounce (28 grams) of Oaxaca cheese contains about 80 calories. However, the exact number of calories may vary depending on the brand and type of cheese.
Is Oaxaca Cheese healthy?
Oaxaca cheese, like most cheeses, is high in fat and calories. However, it is also a good source of calcium and protein. As with any food, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How do I store Oaxaca Cheese?
Oaxaca cheese should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature between 35-40°F. It is important to keep the cheese wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors from the refrigerator.
Can Oaxaca Cheese be used as a substitute for other cheeses?
Oaxaca cheese can be used as a substitute for other soft, mild cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack. However, it may not work well in recipes that require a strong cheese flavor or a firmer texture. It is best to experiment with different cheeses to find the best substitute for your recipe.