Do you know what cheese is used for Colombian fruit salad? Although it might seem strange to you, in Colombia they add a lot of cheese.
In fact, it’s the star ingredient of this beloved dish, cherished by both national and international diners.
The reason? This unique fusion creates an exquisite contrast between the natural sweetness of the fruits and the salty flavor of the cheese.
It’s a detail that highlights the flavors and sets it apart from other fruit salads in the world. Seriously, you have to try it.
Thanks to its distinctive flavor, it offers you a memorable taste experience. Are you tempted to give your palate this treat?
Colombian Fruit Salad with Cheese
This dessert is your best option when it’s hot, and baking seems crazy. There’s a good reason.
What is it? It satisfies your sweet tooth while refreshing you at the same time, which is perfect for enduring these hot days.
It consists of a simple yet delicious mix of chopped fruits like mango, strawberries, banana, apple, and papaya.
Also, more exotic fruits like kiwi, pineapple, watermelon, or grapes. You can choose them according to your preferences.
It’s served with an irresistible thick sauce made from smooth cream. And on top, it’s covered with a generous amount of grated cheese.
This ingredient is never missing from the Colombian fruit salad, which makes it a favorite for most people.
What Cheese is Used for the Colombian Fruit Salad?
Traditionally, fresh white cheese is what Colombians choose to enhance their iconic salad.
Not only for its softness but also because it contains little salt and pairs perfectly with the fruits.
It’s similar to ricotta or cottage cheese, both very light varieties with subtle aromas. However, it’s less moist and firmer.
It has a great capacity for absorbing flavors, making it the perfect dairy product for this type of dish.
The delicious and delicate taste of this fresh cheese has been winning over palates for generations.
Characteristics of Colombian Fresh Cheese
This type of cheese is one of the favorites in the Andean country due to its freshness and other irresistible qualities. Here are 5 of its characteristics:
Texture
It’s soft, creamy, and melts in your mouth with just a slight movement, providing a delicious experience.
This is because it’s a soft cheese, very crumbly, although some varieties are firmer.
Flavor
The aroma or sensation that Colombian fresh cheese creates in your palate is mild and slightly salty.
Thanks to this flavor, you can use it in both desserts and savory dishes. For example, the fruit salad.
COLOR
It’s usually bright white, the natural color of the milk used to make this edible product.
However, you may find some varieties with yellowish tones due to their composition.
Culinary Use
It’s a basic ingredient in many Colombian recipes due to its incredible culinary versatility.
It’s often used in fresh salads, irresistible arepas, empanadas, and other traditional dishes.
Production
It’s made from cow’s milk and is relatively easy to produce, as it doesn’t require a long maturation process.
Simply curdle the milk and then press it to obtain the delicious fresh cheese. See how simple it is?
Ingredients of Colombian Fruit Salad
Can’t wait to make your own Colombian-style fruit salad? It’s hard to resist this dish.
If you want to achieve an authentic flavor, take note of the ingredients you’ll need.
Fruits
You have many options to create your dish, from a combination of juicy strawberries, creamy bananas, to sweet papayas and apples.
You can even add pineapple, kiwi, watermelon, and any other fruits you like, as this recipe gives you the freedom to experiment.
In other words, there are no limits to creativity, so you can make it entirely to your liking.
Cream
It’s the essence of your sauce and the key component that takes it to an extraordinary, out-of-the-ordinary level.
We suggest using a cream with 15-30% fat. This proportion makes a big difference in both flavor and texture.
It gives you the right balance, transforming your dish into an exceptional culinary experience.
Condensed Milk
This is another important ingredient that complements the cream perfectly. It adds that magical touch that makes the sauce unforgettable.
It provides the delicious sweet taste characteristic of sweetened milk and a creaminess that will delight your palate.
You won’t want to miss out on adding exquisite condensed milk to your Colombian fruit salad.
Vanilla Extract
Although it’s optional, we recommend it. Why? This product has an exquisite aroma that deepens the flavors.
A dash of this extract will give an incredibly aromatic and flavorful touch to your fruit mix.
Cheese
You already know what cheese is used for the Colombian fruit salad, so don’t forget to buy fresh white cheese.
It’s what makes this delicacy unique and follows the culinary tradition of the Andean country.
But for better flavor and texture, it’s preferable to grate it yourself rather than buying pre-grated cheese.
What Toppings Pair Well with the Cheese in Fruit Salad?
One of the advantages of this dish is that you can personalize it with different toppings to make every bite unique.
For example, add various toppings like ice cream, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, whipped cream, or granola.
Also, raisins, candied cherries, strawberry sauce, chocolate, pineapple, and any other flavors you like.
Don’t be afraid to explore and try any additional topping that piques your curiosity and enhances its irresistible flavor.
It will give a very special touch to your salad without sacrificing its essence, and you’ll be able to surprise everyone who tries it.
How to Make Colombian Fruit Salad?
The technique to prepare this delicious dessert is really simple. Do you want to make it with authentic flavors?
Find out what cheese is used for the Colombian fruit salad. Without that exact ingredient, it won’t taste the same.
It’s what gives it the special touch and distinguishes this dish from other fruit salads. Keep reading to see the preparation steps.
Prepare the Fruit Mix
Combine all the delicious fruits, cut into pieces, that you’ve chosen. Peel them if necessary, and place them in a bowl.
Of course, they should be previously washed with plenty of water to remove any bacteria.
If they include slightly acidic fruits like apples or kiwis, for example, you can add sugar to soften that flavor.
One or two tablespoons will be enough, depending on your taste, but if you’re using naturally sweet fruits, it won’t be necessary.
Choose Your Preferred Sauce
Now, enjoy preparing the sauce that will enhance all the flavors of your fruit salad.
In a medium bowl, pour cold cream and beat until thickened with a mixer, without letting peaks form.
Add condensed milk and continue beating to obtain a slightly creamy and fluffy mixture.
Incorporate the sauce into the fruits and gently stir to let all the flavors blend perfectly.
what cheese is used for the Colombian fruit salad? Add the Colombian Cheese
Now that you know what cheese is used for the Colombian fruit salad, it’s time to incorporate it into your recipe.
Serve the portions and sprinkle the grated fresh cheese on top to transform your dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.
You’ll be amazed by how delicious it is to mix fruits covered in cream with this dairy ingredient.
If you want to make it more irresistible, pair it with delicious ice cream, a chocolate topping, or candied cherries.
Why is Cheese Special in Colombian Fruit Salad?
This ingredient not only intensifies the flavor but also adds a creamy consistency and an irresistible contrast.
The cheese melts with the fruits, creating a delightful blend of flavors that allows you to enjoy the best Colombian fruit salad.
So, what cheese is used for the Colombian fruit salad? Whether you use white cheese or cuajada, your palate will be truly pleased when tasting this delicacy.
Imagine the contrast created by combining the sweetness of the fruits with the saltiness of the cheese. It’s simply spectacular.
Add to that the softness and freshness of this product, along with the juiciness of the fruits and their nutritional contribution.
Adding cheese to your fruit salad enriches it with calcium and protein, making it a healthy and balanced option.
Fresh cheese is also special for its versatility, and you can choose different types: costeño, campesino, or cuajada.
And adapt your salad to your personal preferences or the regional flavors you like most. How does that sound?
Do you now know what cheese is used for the Colombian fruit salad?
We’re convinced you do.
Now, all that’s left is to prepare this recipe to experience its rich flavor and find out why everyone raves about it.
Are you ready to discover it? It won’t take you long to make. The best part? You’ll love the result.