1 oz (28 g) Panela Cheese has 80 calories. Panela cheese is a popular Mexican cheese that is commonly used in cooking. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a soft, crumbly texture that makes it great for grilling or as a topping for salads and soups. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of panela cheese and provide some recipes and cooking tips.
Panela cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, with one serving providing 6 grams and 20% of the daily recommended intake respectively. In addition, it is low in fat and sodium, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
If you are looking for a tasty, versatile cheese that is also good for your health, look no further than panela cheese. Here are some tips and strategies for incorporating it into your meals.
What is Panela Cheese?
Panela cheese is a soft, fresh cheese that is native to Mexico. It is made from cow's milk and is similar in texture to queso fresco or ricotta. Panela cheese has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the taste of many dishes. The cheese is typically formed into small, flat rounds or balls, which are then sold in brine or vacuum-sealed packaging to maintain freshness. Panela cheese is a popular ingredient in many Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. It can also be grilled or melted to top salads, soups, and pizzas.
Panela Cheese Calories
A 1 oz (28 g) serving of panela cheese contains 80 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie food. It also has 6 grams of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Panela Cheese Nutrients
In addition to being low in calories and high in protein, panela cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also contains vitamin A, which is essential for healthy skin, eyes, and immunity, as well as potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and prevent heart disease. Finally, panela cheese is low in fat and sodium, making it a heart-healthy food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Panela Cheese Serving Size
A standard serving of panela cheese is 1 oz (28 g), or about the size of a small matchbox. This provides 80 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 20% of the daily recommended intake of calcium. You can easily incorporate panela cheese into your meals by using it as a topping for salads, soups, and vegetables or incorporating it into your favorite recipes.
How to Cook with Panela Cheese
Panela cheese can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and pizzas. It is also great for grilling, as it softens but does not melt. Here are some tips for cooking with panela cheese: - Cut the cheese into small cubes or crumble it to use as a topping.
- Grill the cheese until it is lightly browned and crispy on the outside.
- Mix panela cheese with other cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Use panela cheese as a vegetarian alternative to meat in dishes like tacos and enchiladas.
Panela Cheese Benefits
Panela cheese is a healthy, delicious food that provides many benefits for your body. Here are just a few of the benefits of eating panela cheese: - Good source of protein and calcium
- Low in fat and sodium
- Heart-healthy
- Versatile and easy to incorporate into your meals
Panela Cheese vs Other Cheeses
Panela cheese is similar in texture to other fresh cheeses like queso fresco and ricotta, but it has a slightly different flavor profile. Here are some differences between panela cheese and other popular cheeses: - Cheddar: Panela cheese is less dense and has a milder flavor than cheddar cheese.
- Feta: Feta cheese is saltier and tangier than panela cheese.
- Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese is more stretchy and melted than panela cheese.
Panela Cheese Recipes
Here are some delicious recipes that use panela cheese as a main ingredient: - Grilled Panela Cheese Salad: Toss grilled panela cheese with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette for a light and flavorful salad.
- Panela Cheese Quesadillas: Layer panela cheese, sautéed peppers and onions, and black beans between two tortillas and grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Panela Cheese Enchiladas: Stuff tortillas with seasoned ground beef and panela cheese, top with enchilada sauce and bake until hot and bubbly.
Where to Buy Panela Cheese
Panela cheese is widely available at most major grocery stores in the dairy or cheese section. You can also find it at specialty food stores and Mexican markets. If you can't find panela cheese at your local grocery store, you can also order it online from specialty food retailers like Amazon or Mexgrocer.
How to Store Panela Cheese
Panela cheese should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. It will keep for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. If you have leftover panela cheese or want to store it for longer, you can also freeze it for up to six months. However, be aware that freezing may change the texture of the cheese.
Panela cheese is a healthy, delicious food that provides many benefits for your body.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Panela Cheese
1. What is panela cheese?
Panela cheese is a type of fresh cheese that is most commonly found in Mexican cuisine. It is made from cow's milk and has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor with a crumbly texture.
2. How is panela cheese made?
Panela cheese is made by curdling milk with the addition of lemon juice, vinegar or another acidic substance. The curds are then pressed into a mold to form a solid block of cheese, which is then cut into smaller pieces for consumption.
3. Is panela cheese healthy?
Panela cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus. It is also low in calories and fat, making it a good option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.
4. How do you eat panela cheese?
Panela cheese can be consumed on its own as a snack or added to salads, sandwiches, or tacos for added flavor and texture. It can also be melted and used as a topping for pizza or added to soups and stews.
5. Where can I buy panela cheese?
Panela cheese can be found at most Mexican grocery stores or specialty cheese shops. It may also be available at some larger supermarkets in the cheese or dairy section.