Oaxaca cheese, also known as Quesillo, is a delicious and versatile dairy product originating from the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. Loved for its milky flavor and unique stringiness, this cheese has become a staple in traditional Mexican cuisine. Teaching students about Oaxaca cheese acquaints them with the rich cultural heritage surrounding this popular food. This article aims to outline the importance of Oaxaca cheese, its production process, and how to incorporate it into various dishes to foster an appreciation for this culinary gem.
The History of Oaxaca Cheese
The origin of Oaxaca cheese dates back to the late 19th century when Dominican friars introduced cows to the region. The residents of Oaxaca began experimenting with making cheese, eventually developing the renowned Quesillo we know today. Since then, Oaxaca cheese has solidified its place in Mexican gastronomy and expanded its presence on a global scale.
The Production Process
Oaxaca cheese is made exclusively from cow’s milk and involves a unique stretching process that gives it a distinct stringy texture. After the initial cheesemaking stages of culturing and coagulating cow’s milk with rennet, the curds are separated from the whey. The curds are then heated until they become soft enough to be stretched into long rope-like strands called tiritas. These strands are wound into a ball to create the final product.
Varieties of Oaxaca Cheese
There are two main varieties of Oaxaca cheese – artisanal and commercial. The artisanal version is made by small-scale producers who follow traditional methods involving hand stretching and natural fermentation. In contrast, commercial-grade Oaxaca cheese is produced on a larger scale using automated processes that often modify texture and flavor.
Incorporating Oaxaca Cheese into Classroom Activities
1. Tasting and Comparison – Organize a tasting session where students can sample different brands of Oaxaca cheese. Encourage them to observe and describe the flavor, texture, and consistency, comparing both artisanal and commercial varieties.
2. Cooking Demonstrations – Conduct a live cooking demonstration to show students how Oaxaca cheese melts as an ingredient in dishes like quesadillas, tacos, and tlayudas. Discuss the cultural importance of these traditional recipes.
3. Cheesemaking Workshops – Invite local cheese artisans to guide students through a hands-on workshop on making Oaxaca cheese at home or at school. Students can learn firsthand about the process of transforming milk into this delicious cheese.
4. Field Trips – Arrange visits to local dairy farms or cheese-making facilities to educate students on the full production process, from cow to curd.
5. Research Projects – Assign students research projects focused on Mexican cuisine or Oaxaca cheese in particular to foster a deeper understanding of its history and cultural significance.
