Queijo Nozinho: Brazil’s Playful Cheese with a Twist

At De Kaasserie, some of our favourite discoveries don’t come from books or trade fairs — they come from our clients. That’s exactly how we first came across Queijo Nozinho, when a customer came into the shop looking for Oacaca because it was similar to it. We were introduced to this Brazilian gem — and we loved it.

Image from: supsaodomingos.com.br

A Knot of Tradition

“Queijo Nozinho” literally translates to “little knot cheese.” It’s a type of fresh mozzarella-style cheese, hand-shaped into small knots by skilled cheesemakers. Each piece carries the marks of craftsmanship — no two knots are ever quite the same.

Originating from Brazil’s dairy-rich regions, especially in the northeast, it has become a beloved staple at celebrations and gatherings. Much like its Mexican cousin, Queso Oaxaca, it’s a stretchy, stringy cheese that’s fun to eat and deeply tied to local food culture.

Flavour Profile: Light, Milky, and Refreshing

Queijo Nozinho is all about freshness. Its simplicity is its strength:

• Texture: Soft, elastic, and slightly stringy, with a satisfying chew.

• Flavour: Mild, milky, and delicately salty — refreshing and easy to love.

• Pairing Potential: A blank canvas for both sweet and savoury pairings.

  
  

How to Enjoy Queijo Nozinho

This knotted beauty is as versatile as it is playful:

• Traditional Style: Eat it plain or lightly chilled, just as it’s enjoyed in Brazil.

• With Freshness: Pair with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil for a Brazilian-inspired caprese.

• With Sweetness: Balance its saltiness with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or papaya.

• For Sharing: Its shape always catches the eye, making it a guaranteed conversation starter at tastings or parties.

  
  

Why We Love It at De Kaasserie

Queijo Nozinho has a way of bringing joy to the table. We love how approachable it is, how fun it looks, and how easily it sparks stories of travel, tradition, and discovery.

For us, it’s a perfect reminder of what makes our work so rewarding: the shared passion of our clients, who often help us discover new flavours to celebrate.