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Jack Who?
Learn More about Monterey Jack Cheese
By Donna Smith
If you see the name "Jack" in a recipe, you can almost guarantee it's going to be delicious. But, who is this famous Jack? Jack Nicholson? Jack Lemmon? Dr. Jack Kevorkian? (What a recipe that would be!) Relax, none of these are even close.
"Jack" in the title is a good indication that the recipe contains Monterey Jack cheese. I guess it could also mean that someone named Jack created the recipe, but for argument's sake, let's assume it's because of the cheese. And what a great cheese it is!
Monterey Jack was first made in Monterey, Calif., which explains the first part of the name. David Jacks, the owner of several dairies in Monterey, first created it way back in the 1890's, explaining the second part of its name. When jalapenos or other hot peppers are added, it's known as Pepper Jack or Jalapeno Jack. Both are great for adding some spice to a dish!
Good shredded or sliced, hot or cold, this is a very versatile cheese. Monterey Jack is a white, semi-soft cheese with a mellow, buttery flavor. It melts very easily, which makes it great for grilled cheese sandwiches, casseroles, sauces and dips.
Monterey Jack is often associated with Southwestern or Tex-Mex food. Although it's great in these types of dishes, don't stop there! It can be substituted in almost any recipe using cheddar cheese. Try mixing half cheddar and half Monterey Jack. This is a great combination! Most grocery stores sell a cheese called Co-Jack, which is Monterey Jack and cheddar combined into one cheese. Although this is convenient, I've found that you usually get more cheddar, so it's best to mix your own.
