Monterey Jack is one of the oldest and truest American Cheeses. Originating in the 1700s, the cheese was developed by Franciscian friars of Monterey, California. A businessman by the name of David Jack began selling these cheeses all throughout California. The cheese became popular and was known around the area as either "Monterey Jack's" or "Jack's Monterey". It is a semi-firm, creamy and mild flavored cheese made from pasteurized cow milk. It is typically aged for around 1 month and commonly is flavored with hot peppers (Pepper Jack) or with other herbs. It is commonly used in Mexican and Spanish Cooking because the cheese melts very well. It is also common for it to be produced with Colby Cheese, creating Colby Jack.
