Queso Panela, a Mexican cheese, is a soft, unripened cheese made from cow's milk. One ounce (28 g) of queso panela roughly contains 90 calories.

Queso Panela is rich in protein and calcium but low in fat and carbohydrates. The cheese is often used in many traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes due to its mild flavor and versatility in both hot and cold dishes.

In this article, we'll explore the calories, macronutrients, health benefits, and possible side effects of consuming Queso Panela. Additionally, we'll discuss ways to incorporate Queso Panela into your diet and how it compares to other popular cheeses.

What is Queso Panela?

Queso Panela is a type of fresh, unripened cheese made from cow's milk. It has a very soft and moist texture, similar to feta cheese but with a milder flavor. The cheese has a white color and is typically shaped into a rounded disk or ball. Due to its mild flavor and soft texture, Queso Panela is often used in many traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes. It can be used in both hot and cold dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, soups, and enchiladas. Queso Panela is also known as queso canasta or basket cheese due to the traditional method of placing the cheese curds into a basket to drain and shape the cheese.

Calories in Queso Panela

One ounce (28 g) of Queso Panela contains approximately 90 calories. The cheese is considered a low-calorie food and can be incorporated into a balanced diet for those looking to manage their caloric intake.

Fat content in Queso Panela

One ounce (28 g) of Queso Panela contains approximately 6 grams of fat, which is considered a relatively low amount. The cheese is a good source of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can have a positive effect on overall health when consumed in moderation.

Protein in Queso Panela

One ounce (28 g) of Queso Panela contains approximately 6 grams of protein, which is a relatively high amount for a cheese. Protein is an essential macronutrient needed for the growth and repair of tissues in the body and can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety.

Carbohydrates in Queso Panela

One ounce (28 g) of Queso Panela contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates, which is considered a very low amount. The cheese is a good option for those following a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet.

Calcium in Queso Panela

One ounce (28 g) of Queso Panela contains approximately 15% of the daily recommended intake of calcium. Calcium is an essential mineral needed for strong bones and teeth, nerve function, and muscle health.

Health benefits of Queso Panela

Queso Panela has several health benefits due to its nutritional profile. The cheese is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and calcium, all of which are essential nutrients needed for overall health and wellness. Additionally, Queso Panela is a low-calorie and low-carbohydrate food, making it a good option for those looking to manage their weight and blood sugar levels. The calcium found in Queso Panela can also help support bone health and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones. Additionally, the healthy fats found in Queso Panela can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body.

Ways to include Queso Panela in your diet

Queso Panela can be incorporated into a variety of dishes to add flavor and nutrition. It can be used in both hot and cold dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, soups, and enchiladas. Here are a few ideas for incorporating Queso Panela into your diet: 1. Use it in a breakfast omelette or frittata. 2. Add it to a quesadilla or grilled cheese sandwich. 3. Use it in a taco or burrito. 4. Add it to a salad for extra protein and texture. 5. Use it as a topping for roasted vegetables or pizza.

Comparison of Queso Panela and other cheeses

Queso Panela is a unique cheese that differs greatly from other popular cheeses. Here is a comparison of Queso Panela and other types of cheese: 1. Queso Fresco: Queso Panela is often compared to Queso Fresco, another Mexican cheese. However, Queso Panela is softer and milder in flavor than Queso Fresco, which has a firmer texture and a tangier flavor. 2. Feta Cheese: Queso Panela is often used as a substitute for feta cheese due to its soft texture and mild flavor. However, Feta cheese has a saltier and tangier taste than queso panela.

Possible side effects of consuming Queso Panela

Queso Panela is generally considered safe for most people to consume. However, some individuals may have an intolerance or allergy to dairy products and should avoid consuming Queso Panela. Additionally, Queso Panela is a high-sodium food and should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with high blood pressure or other health conditions that require a low-sodium diet.