Queijo Coalho: Easy Recipes, Grilling Tips, and Storage Hacks
If you’ve never heard of queijo coalho, you’re missing out on a versatile, mild cheese that’s perfect for grilling, salads, and snacks. It’s a fresh Brazilian cheese, similar to halloumi, that holds its shape when heated. Below you’ll find practical ideas to turn this cheese into delicious meals without any fancy techniques.
Grilling and Cooking Queijo Coalho
First thing’s first: the cheese loves high heat. Slice it into 1‑cm thick slabs, brush lightly with olive oil, and toss on a hot grill or grill pan. In just a couple of minutes each side, you’ll see a golden crust and a soft, melty interior. No need for marinades; a pinch of sea salt does the trick.
If you don’t have a grill, a cast‑iron skillet works just as well. Heat the pan over medium‑high, place the cheese slices, and let them sizzle without moving for about 2 minutes. Flip, cook another minute, and you’ve got crispy‑outside, creamy‑inside bites ready for a quick snack.
Quick Recipes with Queijo Coalho
One‑pan meals are a lifesaver on busy days. Try a simple stir‑fry: cut the cheese into cubes, toss with chopped bell peppers, onion, and a splash of lime juice. Cook until the veggies are tender and the cheese edges are browned. Serve over rice or quinoa for a balanced plate.
For a fresh salad, crumble warmed cheese over mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, a dash of honey, and cracked black pepper. The warm cheese melts slightly, creating a velvety coating that brings the whole salad together.Another crowd‑pleaser is cheese skewers. Thread cubes of queijo coalho onto wooden sticks, alternating with pineapple chunks and red onion. Grill the skewers for 3‑4 minutes, brush with a mixture of honey and chili flakes, and serve as a party appetizer.
Storing queijo coalho is easy. Keep it in its original liquid, or submerge it in a shallow bowl of cold water, changing the water daily. It stays fresh for up to a week in the fridge. If you want it longer, freeze the cheese in airtight bags; thaw in the refrigerator before using – the texture stays firm enough for grilling.
Whether you’re prepping a quick lunch or impressing guests at a backyard BBQ, queijo coalho offers a simple way to add protein and a buttery flavor to any dish. Its ability to hold up under heat means you can experiment without fear of it melting into a mess.
So grab a block, fire up the grill, and start creating. You’ll be surprised how this humble cheese can turn ordinary meals into tasty, Instagram‑worthy plates – all without spending hours in the kitchen.
