The Best Cheese for Fish Tacos (+10 Alternatives)

Fish tacos have become an increasingly popular dish across the world, thanks to their refreshing taste and versatility.

Whether you prefer yours grilled, fried, or baked, there’s no denying that fish tacos are a delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of day.

However, while fish is undoubtedly the star of the show, the cheese you use can make or break your taco experience.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best cheese for fish tacos, along with 10 alternatives, to help you find the perfect pairing for your next taco night.

So sit back, grab a cold drink, and get ready to discover the ultimate cheese companions for your fish tacos.

The Best Cheese for Fish Tacos

When it comes to fish tacos, the right cheese can bring a dish to the next level. Here are three of the best cheeses for fish tacos:

Cotija Cheese

Cotija cheese is a Mexican cheese that originated from the town of Cotija in the state of Michoacán. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a salty, crumbly texture that makes it perfect for sprinkling on top of fish tacos.

Its flavor is often compared to parmesan cheese, but it has a tangy and slightly acidic taste that adds a nice contrast to the mild taste of fish. Cotija cheese can also be used as a filling for tacos or as a garnish for salads.

Queso Fresco

Queso fresco is another Mexican cheese that is commonly used in fish tacos. It’s a soft, crumbly cheese that is made from cow’s milk and has a mild flavor with a slightly tangy finish.

Queso fresco can be crumbled on top of fish tacos, added as a filling, or melted to create a creamy sauce. Its soft texture pairs well with the crispy texture of fish tacos, and its mild flavor won’t overpower the taste of the fish.

Panela Cheese

Panela cheese is a Mexican cheese that is similar to queso fresco but has a firmer texture. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the taste of fish.

Panela cheese can be sliced and added as a filling or crumbled on top of fish tacos. Its firm texture also makes it a good option for grilling or frying, as it won’t melt as easily as other cheeses.

Overall, Cotija cheese, queso fresco, and panela cheese are all excellent options for fish tacos, each bringing their unique flavor and texture to the dish.

10 Alternatives to the Best Cheese for Fish Tacos

While Cotija cheese, queso fresco, and panela cheese are some of the best cheeses for fish tacos, there are plenty of other cheeses that can also add a delicious touch to this classic dish. Here are 10 alternatives to consider:

1. Feta Cheese: Feta cheese is a Greek cheese that is salty, tangy, and crumbly. While it’s not traditionally used in fish tacos, its salty flavor can complement the mild taste of fish. Feta can be crumbled on top of fish tacos or added as a filling.
2. Monterey Jack Cheese: Monterey Jack cheese is a mild cheese that melts easily, making it a great option for creating a creamy sauce for fish tacos. It has a buttery flavor that pairs well with the taste of fish.
3. Oaxaca Cheese: Oaxaca cheese is a Mexican cheese that has a similar texture to mozzarella cheese. It’s a stringy cheese that melts well and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
4. Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a sharp, tangy cheese that can add a bold flavor to fish tacos. It’s best used in small amounts to avoid overpowering the taste of the fish.
5. Gouda Cheese: Gouda cheese is a Dutch cheese that has a nutty flavor and a creamy texture. It can be sliced and added as a filling for fish tacos or melted to create a cheesy sauce.
6. Havarti Cheese: Havarti cheese is a Danish cheese that has a buttery flavor and a creamy texture. It can be sliced and added as a filling for fish tacos or melted to create a creamy sauce.
7. Pepper Jack Cheese: Pepper Jack cheese is a spicy cheese that has bits of jalapeño peppers mixed in. It can add a kick to fish tacos and pairs well with other Mexican flavors.
8. Brie Cheese: Brie cheese is a French cheese that has a creamy texture and a mild flavor. It can be sliced and added as a filling for fish tacos or melted to create a creamy sauce.
9. Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta cheese is an Italian cheese that has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture. It can be added as a filling for fish tacos or mixed with other cheeses to create a creamy sauce.
10. Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is a soft, spreadable cheese that can be mixed with other cheeses to create a creamy sauce for fish tacos. Its mild flavor won’t overpower the taste of the fish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect cheese for fish tacos can take your dish to the next level. While Cotija cheese, queso fresco, and panela cheese are some of the best options, there are plenty of other cheeses that can also add a delicious touch to this classic dish.

When choosing a cheese for your fish tacos, consider the flavor profile of the cheese and how it will complement the taste of the fish. Some cheeses are mild and creamy, while others are sharp and tangy. Some cheeses melt easily, while others are better used as a garnish.

Experimenting with different cheeses can be a fun and tasty way to add variety to your fish taco recipe. Whether you stick with traditional Mexican cheeses or try out something new, the right cheese can take your fish tacos to the next level. So next time you’re making fish tacos, don’t forget to choose the best cheese to complement your dish!