Queso Panela

A mild flavored Mexican cheese, which is white in color and is very soft and crumbly in texture. When heated, it becomes soft and creamy but retains its shape and will not become runny. It is served cubed or crumbled with salads, chili, and soups. For sandwiches, it can be sliced and added over meats or other ingredients. And, it is a common cheese that is crumbled over Mexican dishes, such as burritos, tacos and quesadillas. For appetizers, Panela is a cheese that is often sliced and fried in a non-stick pan until it is golden brown to be served as a cooked snack. Panela can be substituted with fresh mozzarella, dry cottage cheese, Monterey Jack, or dry ricotta, depending on how it is used in the recipe.