National Cheese Lover Day: 10 Latin American Recipes That Will Satiate Your Need for Cheese

Cheese lovers listen up: while we are aware that any day you get to devour a bite of cheesy goodness feels like a holiday, there is actually a holiday dedicated to you — National Cheese Lover Day! Mark it in your calendars and stock your fridge with all the cheese you can carry, because January 20th is officially National Cheese Lover Day in the US. Yes, we promise it’s a thing; though would it matter if we made it up and gave you an excuse to eat more cheese? That’s what we thought…

January 20th is a day to celebrate cheese; to honor those of us who love cheese, the recipes that revolve around cheese, and the many time-honored traditions of Latin American cooking that really deliver where cheese-obsessed foodies are concerned. We salute you, and we’ve gathered the best, cheesiest, gooiest, most delicious recipes from south of the border and beyond.   

From queso to tequeños and everything in between, if you would choose a bite of cheese over a sweet treat any day, then this list of must-try recipes is for you. 

8Latin American-Style Fried Cheese

cheese Belatina

Consider this the Latin American answer to your mozzarella sticks craving — but better. These fried cheese bites are like mouthfuls of heaven and make the perfect snack for the whole family or your party guests. While this dish is commonly enjoyed in Mexico, it is also popular in Colombia, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Puerto Rico, where it’s served literally any time of day (fried cheese for breakfast, yes please!) Just make sure you use the right kind of cheese, such as queso de freier, queso blanco (white cheese) or queso fresco (farmer’s cheese), which all fry well.