Jack Cheese

An American cheese produced from cow's milk that may be skimmed or whole. It has smooth texture and a very mild flavor. It is very popular as a snack, hors d'oeuvre, or sandwich cheese, and melts easily for a number of cooked dishes. Jack cheese can be aged for long periods, which allows it to take on the properties of a cheese like cheddar. The color becomes more yellow and the flavor is much sharper. Jack cheese that is not aged is often produced with the herbs and other flavorings added to enhance the taste. There are a number of variations in flavors of Jack cheese, such as Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, Horseradish Jack, Salsa Jack, Morel Jack, and others. Jack cheese is also known as Monterey Jack cheese for the town in California where it originated.