If you’re like me, you probably have a lot of cotija cheese in your fridge. But what do you do with it once it’s been opened? Can you freeze cotija cheese? We all know that cheese can be finicky when it comes to freezing, so I did some research to find out if cotija is freezer-friendly. Read on to find out what I discovered!
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze cotija cheese. The impact on taste will depend on how long it is frozen for and the quality of the cheese when it was originally packaged. Impact on texture will depend on how long it is frozen for, with a shorter freezing time resulting in a more crumbly product. It is best to consume within 3-4 months of being frozen.
Can You Freeze Cotija Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze Cotija cheese. The impact on the taste will be very minimal and the impact on the texture will be nonexistent. The cheese will last in the freezer for up to six months.
How To Freeze Cotija Cheese?
Cotija cheese is a hard, crumbly Mexican cheese that has a salty and sharp taste. It can be used in place of Parmesan or other hard cheeses in recipes. You can freeze cotija cheese in small quantities for up to two months. Here are the steps:
1. Cut the cotija cheese into small pieces using a sharp knife.
2. Place the cotija cheese on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Freeze for one hour or until solid.
4. Transfer the frozen cotija cheese to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to two months.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Cotija Cheese
When freezing cotija cheese, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the cheese is well-wrapped so that it doesn’t get freezer burn. You can either wrap it in wax paper or place it in a sealed plastic bag. Second, make sure to freeze the cheese as quickly as possible. The colder the environment, the slower the cheese will freeze, and this could lead to ice crystals forming in the cheese. Finally, thaw the cheese slowly and carefully so that it doesn’t get too soft.
How To Thaw Frozen Cotija Cheese
To thaw frozen Cotija Cheese, first remove it from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw it by submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Once it’s thawed, simply crumble or shave the cheese as desired. Enjoy!
How Long Does Cotija Cheese Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
It will be safe to eat after 10 days at room temperature.
Cotija cheese is a hard, cow’s milk cheese from Mexico. It has a salty, nutty flavor and is often used in Mexican cuisine. Cotija cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two months or in the freezer for up to six months. If you are going to store it in the freezer, it is best to wrap it in plastic wrap and then into a ziplock bag.
How Long Does Cotija Cheese Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
Cotija cheese can last for up to two weeks in the fridge. It is a hard, salty cheese that originated in Mexico.
It is safe to eat cotija cheese beyond the expiration date on the package, but it may become more crumbly and less flavorful.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Cotija Cheese?
Ideas, list:
1. Sprinkle it over tacos or quesadillas.
2. Mix it into a black bean dip.
3. Add it to a chicken Caesar salad.
4. Toss it with roasted vegetables or pasta salad.
5. Top off your favorite pizza or flatbread.
6. Stir it into soups or stews for extra richness and flavor.
