Monterey Jack Cheese is 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 in Mexican dishes, melts easily and is used many appetizers and snack foods.
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. Probably the most popular of the flavored jacks is the Pepper Jack cheese. Monterey Jack is named after the city Monterey, California.
You can purchase jack cheese sliced or in blocks. Many of these cheeses are barely aged and lack flavor. If possible purchase a better quality product in a cheese shop.
Here is a link to our recipe for how to make Monterey Jack Cheese.
If you need a substitute you can use either of these. They are all similar in texture and are mildly flavored.