Cheese story
What is Pepper Jack?
Monterey Jack flavoured with chillies and spices.
Origin
California / US-wide, United States
Milk
cow
Board role
Hard / mature
Cheese profile
Country
United States
Region
California / US-wide
Milk type
cow
Texture
semi-hard flavoured
Rind
waxed or natural
Ageing
1 to 3 months
Vegetarian
Check the rennet / producer
Milk treatment
yes
Flavour profile: mild, buttery, chilli-spiced
Origin, protection and character
Pepper Jack comes from United States, especially California / US-wide. Its character comes from the balance of milk, texture, rind, ageing and local serving traditions.
Protected status
None
Typical ageing
1 to 3 months
How to serve Pepper Jack
burgers, nachos, quesadillas, sandwiches
Good food matches
lager
salsa
grilled meats
Serving tip
Take it out of the fridge before serving so the texture softens and the flavour opens up. Softer cheeses usually need less time than hard aged cheeses.
Buying tip
Look for clean aroma, good texture and a style that matches the board: fresh and bright, soft and creamy, hard and nutty, blue and salty, or bold and washed-rind.
