QUESO PANELA Meaning and
Definition
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Queso panela is a type of Mexican cheese that is traditionally made from cow's milk. It is a soft, mild, and crumbly cheese with a slightly acidic taste. The name "queso panela" translates to "panel cheese" in English, derived from the process in which the cheese is made.
The cheese is prepared by curdling the milk with the addition of rennet or an acid. The curds are then heated and shaped into a round or rectangular form. The name "panela" refers to the pressing process where the cheese is placed under weights to drain off the whey and create a solid cheese.
Queso panela has a white, ivory-like appearance with a porous texture. It has a mild and slightly salty flavor that resembles fresh milk, making it ideal for both savory and sweet dishes. Its soft and crumbly texture allows it to easily crumble into small pieces or melt when heated, making it a versatile cheese for various culinary applications.
This cheese is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, particularly in dishes like chiles rellenos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. It can be sliced, grilled, or fried, resulting in a creamy and melty texture. Queso panela is often served alongside salsas, beans, or tortillas and is a staple ingredient in many traditional Mexican recipes.
Etymology of QUESO PANELA
The word "queso panela" is derived from two components: "queso" and "panela".
"Queso" is a Spanish word that means "cheese". It comes from the Latin word "caseus", meaning "cheese".
"Panela" is a Spanish word that refers to a type of cheese, specifically a fresh, white cheese made from cow's milk. The term "panela" is commonly used in Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.
Therefore, "queso panela" literally translates to "cheese panela", indicating that it is a type of cheese referred to as panela.
