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MONTEREY JACK CHEESE

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack cheese, originally from California, is a semi-hard, creamy, and mildly flavored cheese made primarily from cow's milk. Known for its versatility in cooking, Monterey Jack is an incredibly popular choice for a wide range of dishes, from simple sandwiches to intricate gourmet recipes. Its subtle taste ensures that it complements various flavor profiles while smoothly melting when heated. Often used in American and Mexican cuisine, Monterey Jack cheese is a crowd favorite for dishes like casseroles, burgers, quesadillas, and macaroni and cheese. It can also be enjoyed simply, as a snack, paired with crackers or in a cheese board. This all-around cheese is an essential addition to any home cook's ingredients.
#32
IN CHEESE
393
CAL / 100G
$0.25
AVG / OZ
monterey jack cheese
0%
CARBS
56%
FAT
44%
PROTEIN
Monterey Jack Cheese FAQ
Questions around Monterey Jack Cheese often focus on its flexibility in cooking, where it most fits in the culinary world, and how to substitute it when it's not available. When cooking with Monterey Jack, people commonly go wrong by using it in dishes that require a strong flavored cheese, as it's mainly valued for its mild taste and superior melting qualities. The best way to maximize the use of Monterey Jack is in hot dishes where the cheese needs to melt smoothly, like with mac & cheese or quesadillas. For a unique twist, smoked or spiced versions of Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeños could bring an interesting touch to your dishes. Those aiming to enjoy the cheese in its raw form should consider pairing it with fruits like apples, pears or grapes, or serve it as part of a cheese board selection. A lesser-known trick when cooking with Monterey Jack is to combine it with other, stronger flavored cheeses. That way, you can enjoy the benefits of its texture while getting the flavor punch from the other cheese.
Can I use Monterey Jack for pizza?
Can I use Monterey Jack cheese in Italian dishes?
What are some cheeses that I can substitute Monterey Jack with?
Can Monterey Jack cheese be used for fondue?
Why does my Monterey Jack not melt well?
What dishes can I use Monterey Jack cheese?
Is Monterey Jack good for grilled cheese sandwiches?
How does Monterey Jack compare to Cheddar?
Can Monterey Jack cheese be eaten raw?
Why does my Monterey Jack cheese have a rubbery texture?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does monterey jack cheese expire?
Unopened, a block of Monterey Jack cheese can typically last three to four weeks past the sell-by date if kept in the fridge. Once you've opened it, try to use it within three to four weeks as well. If you choose to freeze your Monterey Jack cheese, it can keep for up to six months, although it's best to use it within a couple of months to maintain its texture and flavor.
How do you tell if monterey jack cheese is bad?
Determining if Monterey Jack cheese is spoiled or expired is pretty straightforward. Look for discolorations like black or green spots. This is a sign of mold and the cheese should be thrown away. If your cheese is slimy or unusually smelly (beyond its regular cheese aroma), toss it. Also, if the cheese is dry or has hardened on the edges, it's likely past its prime. Extra-hard pieces or excessively crumbly texture also signal that it's time to say goodbye.
Tips for storing monterey jack cheese to extend shelf life
• Always store your cheese in the fridge's coldest part, which is typically the lower shelves or the dedicated cheese drawer, if you have one. • Wrap opened Monterey Jack cheese tightly with wax paper or cheese paper before placing it in a loose-fitting baggy. This way, the cheese can breathe and won't absorb other odors from your fridge. • Consider dividing your cheese block into smaller portions before freezing. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then store in a ziplock bag. Defrost the cheese in the fridge a day before you need to use it. Be aware, freezing might change the cheese's texture, making it a bit more crumbly. • Keep the cheese away from strong-smelling foods in your fridge, as they can affect the flavor of the cheese.
EXPIRES WITHIN
4 - 6
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
8g
FAT
7g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
GLUTEN FREE
Contains these allergens
MILK
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