Chihuahua Cheese: A Keto-Friendly Superfood?

Chihuahua cheese, also known as Queso Chihuahua, is a mild cheese produced in Mexico. It is often grated over or melted in Mexican dishes like enchiladas and is a popular choice for dips such as queso fundido. With its semi-soft to semi-firm texture, it is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. But is it keto-friendly? Chihuahua cheese is high in fats, which aligns with the keto diet. However, it also contains a moderate amount of net carbs, with 5.64 grams of net carbs per 100-gram serving or 1.6 grams of net carbs per ounce. This means that while it can be included in a keto diet, it should be consumed in moderation to stay within the typical daily net carb limit of 20 to 30 grams.

Chihuahua Cheese Nutritional Information

Chihuahua Cheese, or Queso Chihuahua, is a Mexican cheese that is high in fats and should be consumed in moderation if you're on a keto diet due to its carbohydrate content.

A 100g serving of Chihuahua Cheese contains 5.64g of net carbs. The recommended daily net carb intake for keto is between 20g and 30g, so it is important to be mindful of portion sizes when consuming this cheese. One ounce of Chihuahua Cheese (approximately 28g) contains 1.6g of total carbs and 1.6g of net carbs, as well as 8.4g of fat, 6.1g of protein, and 106 calories.

Chihuahua Cheese is a good source of fat for keto as it does not contain any non-keto ingredients, such as sweeteners, oils, and food additives. However, it is still recommended to get most of your fats from natural and minimally processed sources like virgin olive oil, MCT oil, and grass-fed butter.

In addition to its fat and carbohydrate content, Chihuahua Cheese also contains 21.3g of saturated fat and 119mg of cholesterol, which is 107% and 40% of the daily value, respectively, based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

How to Store Chihuahua Cheese

Chihuahua cheese is a mild, semi-soft to semi-firm cheese produced in Mexico. It has a supple texture and is known for its excellent meltability. To maintain the quality and flavour of this cheese, proper storage is essential.

Refrigerate:

Keep Chihuahua cheese in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Store it at a temperature between 34-38°F (1-3°C) to maximise its shelf life. Place the cheese in its original packaging, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap if the package has been opened. Alternatively, transfer it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Consume the cheese within its expiration date for the best quality.

Wrap Tightly:

If you are not using an airtight container, ensure the cheese is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. This will help prevent it from drying out and maintain its texture.

Handle Surface Mould:

If you notice a small amount of surface mould on the cheese, you can remove it. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim off the mouldy part without running the knife through the affected area, as this can spread the mould to the rest of the cheese.

Freeze:

If you have more Chihuahua cheese than you can consume within a short period, you can freeze it. Wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap, then seal it in an airtight zip-top bag or wrap it in aluminium foil. Alternatively, you can freeze it in its original packaging if it is unopened. When you are ready to use the frozen cheese, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. It is recommended to use frozen and thawed cheese for cooking or melting, as its texture may suffer if eaten at room temperature.

By following these storage guidelines, you can ensure that your Chihuahua cheese remains fresh, flavourful, and safe to consume.

Recommended Daily Intake

Chihuahua cheese is a semi-soft, mild and creamy cheese that is a versatile ingredient in various dishes. It is a good source of protein and calcium, containing around 6 grams of protein per ounce, and providing about 20% of the recommended daily intake of calcium. It also offers some vitamin A and vitamin B12.

The recommended daily intake of nutrients varies depending on factors such as age, gender, and lifestyle. However, as a general guideline, the percentage of daily values (%DV) is based on a 2,000-calorie diet for adults. Here are the nutritional values for Chihuahua cheese per ounce (28.35 grams) and their contribution to the daily intake:

• Total Carbohydrates: 1.6 grams, contributing 2% of the daily value.
• Net Carbs: 1.6 grams.
• Fat: 8.4 grams, providing 107% saturated fat (21.3 grams).
• Protein: 6.1 grams.
• Calories: 106.

It is important to note that the recommended daily intake of nutrients can vary depending on individual needs, and the nutritional content of Chihuahua cheese may differ slightly between brands. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the nutrition label and consider portion sizes when incorporating this cheese into your diet.

Chihuahua Cheese Substitutes

Chihuahua cheese is a semi-soft, white cheese made from cow's milk. It has a mild, buttery, and tangy flavour, and its versatility means it can be used in a variety of dishes. However, it may be challenging to find Chihuahua cheese outside of Mexico and certain parts of the United States. Additionally, it may not be suitable for those who are lactose intolerant. Fortunately, several suitable substitutes can be used in its place.

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack is a semi-hard cheese made from cow's milk. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavour and is less tangy than Chihuahua cheese. It has a good melting ability, making it a suitable substitute, especially in Mexican dishes. It is widely available in grocery stores and can be used in the same measurements as Chihuahua cheese.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is a soft, sliceable curd cheese. While it is not typically used in Mexican cuisine, it can be a good substitute for Chihuahua cheese due to its similar melting properties. It has a mild flavour that pairs well with spicy dishes. It can be purchased pre-shredded or in soft blocks.

Muenster Cheese

Muenster is a semi-soft cheese made in the USA. It has a smoother texture than Chihuahua cheese and is not crumbly. It has a sweet and nutty flavour and melts well, making it ideal for queso dip or cheese sauce. It is commonly available in 8-ounce blocks and can be substituted in a 1:1 ratio for Chihuahua cheese.

Colby Cheese

Colby is a smooth and creamy cheese with a slightly stronger flavour than Monterey Jack. It has good melting properties, making it suitable for dishes like quesadillas or enchiladas. It can be shredded over nachos or incorporated into casseroles.

Vegan Cheese Options

For those who do not consume dairy or who want to experiment with different options, vegan cheese can be a great alternative. Popular brands like Daiya and Violife offer vegan cheese with a similar texture to Chihuahua cheese. These options are lactose-free and have a wide range of flavours, including traditional options like mozzarella and unique ones like smoked gouda.

Keto-Friendly Foods

Chihuahua cheese is a keto-friendly food, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its carbohydrate content. It is a good source of fat and does not contain any non-keto ingredients.

Seafood

Seafood is an excellent source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, such as B12, iron, selenium, zinc, and vitamin D. Salmon, sardines, and trout are good choices as they are carb-free and rich in omega-3 fats, which have anti-inflammatory effects and support cardiovascular and neurological health.

Meat and Poultry

Meat and poultry are considered staple foods on the keto diet. They contain no carbohydrates and are rich in B vitamins and minerals. Both lean and fatty cuts can be consumed, such as skin-on chicken breasts and ground beef.

Eggs

Eggs are a versatile and nutritious food, high in protein and healthy fats. They promote feelings of fullness and help protect eye health.

Dairy

Cheese, plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and ricotta cheese are good options on the keto diet. They are low in carbs and high in fat and protein. However, it is important to consume cheese in moderation due to its saturated fat content. Cream and half-and-half are also keto-friendly, but they should be consumed in moderation as well.

Plant-Based Milk

Unsweetened soy, almond, and coconut milk are keto-friendly options. Sweetened versions and oat milk contain too much sugar and carbs.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collard greens, are extremely low in carbs and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They add bulk to meals without increasing the carb count.

High-Fat Veggies

Avocados and olives are unique among vegetables as they are high in healthy fats and low in net carbs. They also contain fibre and various nutrients, such as potassium in avocados.

Other Non-Starchy Vegetables

Cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach are examples of non-starchy vegetables that are low in calories and carbs, yet full of nutrients. They can be used as low-carb substitutes for high-carb foods, such as cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes.

Nuts, Seeds, and Healthy Oils

Nuts and seeds are healthy, high in fat, and low in carbs. Olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, butter, and ghee are good choices for keto-friendly fats and oils.

Berries

Berries, especially raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, are low in carbs and high in fibre and antioxidants.

Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Powder

Dark chocolate with a minimum of 70% cocoa solids can be consumed in moderation on the keto diet. Cocoa is also a good option as it is rich in antioxidants.

Unsweetened Coffee and Tea

Plain coffee and tea are carb-free and can be enjoyed on the keto diet. They have potential health benefits, such as reduced risk of diabetes and improved cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions