What Herbs Go with Monterey Jack Cheese?

The question, 'What herbs go with Monterey Jack cheese?' can lead to a delightful culinary adventure. Whether you're planning to melt it for a spread or enjoy it in a grilled cheese sandwich, adding the right herbs can elevate any dish. Let's explore the perfect herbs to pair with Monterey Jack, along with a recipe for a classic Monterey Jack dish, and how to prepare a delicious guacamole to complement your meal.

Cheese Toppers: A Blend of Herbs

When it comes to using Monterey Jack cheese, there are countless ways to enjoy it, but one of the simplest and most flavorful is to sprinkle it atop veggies, starches, or in a grilled cheese sandwich. To achieve the best results, consider a blend of granulated garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. These ingredients add a-layered depth of flavor that complements the cheese without overpowering it. Simply sprinkle the herbs over the cheese before cooking, allowing them to infuse the heat and create a harmonious flavor profile.

Monterey Jack Favorites: A Story of Flavor and Tradition

My personal favorite Monterey Jack dish has been a staple in my family for over four decades, since our first date at Mexico in Alaska, the only Alaskan Mexican restaurant listed in The Travelers Guide. The original dish was an appetizer that we still love to this day. It involves melting slices of Monterey Jack cheese, which is then chopped and turned over with a wooden spoon. When it reaches the three-quarter melted stage, a handful of diced onions is added, cooking until the edges begin to bubble. While the original recipe included sliced canned jalape?o peppers, we prefer the simpler addition of onions, as it doesn't overwhelm the cheese.

The key to enjoying Monterey Jack at its best lies in the cheese itself. In the late 1970s, we used Lucerne, which had a distinctive yellow tinge when it was good, indicating a richer flavor. However, store brands and off-brands have inconsistent quality, and even some Midwest brands like Silver Lakes have become flavorless over time. My current go-to is Joseph Farms, but if all else fails, you can opt for Manchego, a Spanish cheese that mimics the traditional flavor of Monterey Jack but at a higher price point.

The Perfect Complement: Guacamole

Guacamole is the ultimate side for any Monterey Jack dish. The key to making a perfect guacamole is to focus on the quality of the avocados. When avocados are in season and have a rich flavor, adding extra ingredients might be unnecessary. Here is a simple recipe for a homemade guacamole that enhances the flavors of your meal:

Rub the bottom of a bowl with both sides of a sliced, halved fresh garlic clove. This small touch adds a subtle garlic flavor without overwhelming the guac. If you prefer stronger garlic flavor, you can adjust the amount as per your taste.

Add the flesh of ripe avocados, scooped out of their skin. The soft interior is perfect for mushing and blending.

Cut the end of an onion and scrape it across the blade to extract onion juice. This step adds a slight tanginess without overdoing it.

If you're using enough avocados and a good quality one, no additional seasonings may be needed, but if you prefer, you can add a little salt. The secret is to use a salt shaker to sprinkle the salt across the top of each half of the avocado, counting as you go. This ensures an even distribution of salt in the guacamole.

Using a fork, gently mash the avocados to your desired consistency—whether chunky or smooth. The key is to avoid over-mixing, which can result in a watery guacamole.

Pair this homemade guacamole with tortilla chips and you have the perfect companion to your delicious Monterey Jack dish. Enjoy the combination of rich, creamy cheese complemented by the tangy, flavorful guacamole, creating a meal that will transport you to the heart of Mexico.