Bushra Griffith
Swiss cheese is a generic name for several related varieties of medium-hard cheese that resemble Emmental cheese, which originated in Emmental, Switzerland. Interestingly, the famous holes in Swiss cheese are caused by tiny specks of hay that help create holes as milk matures into cheese. In India, Amul Emmental, produced by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, is an Indian cheese made from soft cheese, Cheddar cheese, and common salt. It has a sweet-dry flavour and hazelnut aroma.
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What You'll Learn
- Indian-made Swiss cheese: Amul Emmental, made in Gujarat, is 100% vegetarian
- The science behind the holes: carbon dioxide released during fermentation creates air pockets
- Flavour and aroma: the fermentation process gives Swiss cheese its sweet and nutty flavour
- Indian online retailers: it is possible to buy Swiss cheese online in India
- Indian-made alternatives: Indian-made Emmental cheese is available
Indian-made Swiss cheese: Amul Emmental, made in Gujarat, is 100% vegetarian
Swiss cheese is a generic name for several related varieties of medium-hard cheese that resemble Emmental cheese, which originated in Emmental, Switzerland. Interestingly, the famous holes in Swiss cheese are caused by tiny specks of hay, which create air pockets as the cheese matures.
Amul Emmental, produced by the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, is an Indian-made Swiss cheese. It is made from soft cheese, Cheddar cheese, and common salt. It has a distinctive sweet-dry flavour and a hazelnut aroma. Its texture is firm and open, with the presence of "eyes" (holes) and a yellow colour. Amul Emmental is covered with a dry, hard rind that needs to be removed before consumption. This 100% vegetarian cheese pairs well with wines and cocktails.
Amul Emmental is just one example of Indian-made Swiss cheese, as other varieties may also be available in the country. Indian consumers can now enjoy this type of cheese without having to rely solely on imports from Switzerland or other cheese-producing regions.
The availability of Indian-made Swiss cheese like Amul Emmental showcases the country's dairy industry's innovation and ability to meet diverse consumer demands. By producing Swiss cheese locally, Indian cheese makers contribute to the growing variety of cheese options available in the market, providing consumers with new tastes and experiences.
Overall, the production of Indian-made Swiss cheese, such as Amul Emmental from Gujarat, offers a vegetarian-friendly option that expands the cheese landscape in India, introducing local consumers to the unique characteristics and flavours of Swiss cheese.
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The science behind the holes: carbon dioxide released during fermentation creates air pockets
Swiss cheese, also known as Emmental cheese, is available in India. Now, let's delve into the science behind the distinctive holes in this cheese variety.
The holes in Swiss cheese are indeed a result of the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) during the fermentation process. Fermentation involves the transformation of organic carbon sources into valuable products using microbial cell factories. This process is not limited to cheese production but also plays a significant role in the baking industry and the synthesis of various chemicals.
In the context of Swiss cheese, the fermentation process begins with the addition of specific bacteria to milk, which initiates the breakdown of lactose, the natural sugar found in milk. This breakdown releases carbon dioxide as a byproduct, creating air pockets within the cheese curds. These air pockets eventually form the characteristic holes in Swiss cheese.
The formation of these air pockets is a carefully controlled process. Cheesemakers adjust factors such as temperature, humidity, and the amount of bacteria added to the milk to influence the size and distribution of the holes. The unique appearance of Swiss cheese is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to its texture and flavour profile.
Additionally, carbon dioxide plays a crucial role in baking, where it is intentionally produced through the use of leavening agents such as baker's yeast or baking soda. In bread-making, the release of CO2 creates bubbles that give the dough a lighter and fluffier texture. The holes in bread, similar to those in Swiss cheese, are a visual reminder of the role that carbon dioxide plays in creating the desired consistency and structure.
In summary, the holes in Swiss cheese are a fascinating example of the interplay between science and food production. The release of carbon dioxide during fermentation creates air pockets that contribute to the unique characteristics of this cheese variety. Understanding and controlling this process allows cheesemakers to produce Swiss cheese with its signature appearance, texture, and flavour.
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Flavour and aroma: the fermentation process gives Swiss cheese its sweet and nutty flavour
Swiss cheese is made using a trio of bacteria—Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus (L. helveticus or L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus), and Propionibacterium (Propionibacterium freudenreichii subsp. shermani)—mixed with cow's milk. The bacteria and milk are heated to produce curds, which are then soaked in brine. During this process, the cheese absorbs salt and releases water, while the bacteria expand and release carbon dioxide, creating the distinctive holes that make Swiss cheese famous. The cheese is then heated and cooled multiple times.
The fermentation process, in which bacteria act on the cheese over time, gives Swiss cheese its distinctive sweet and nutty flavour. The larger the holes in the cheese, the more pronounced the flavour, as a longer fermentation period gives the bacteria more time to act. The propionibacteria consume the lactic acid excreted by the other bacteria and release acetate, propionic acid, and carbon dioxide gas. The acetate and propionic acid give Swiss cheese its nutty and sweet flavour.
The flavour profile of Swiss cheese features a mild sweetness that adds a pleasant note without being overpowering, making the cheese appealing to a broad audience. This sweetness is complemented by nutty undertones, creating a satisfying balance that makes Swiss cheese a certified hit for the taste buds. The cheese also has subtle tanginess that distinguishes it from its counterparts and provides an ideal contrast to the sweetness and nutty notes.
The aging process enhances these flavours, making Swiss cheese a versatile choice for both snacking and culinary creations. Emmental, a classic Swiss cheese with large holes and a pale yellow hue, pairs well with crisp apples or juicy pears for a delightful contrast. Its meltability also makes it perfect for fondues and sandwiches.
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Indian online retailers: it is possible to buy Swiss cheese online in India
Swiss cheese is available for purchase online in India through a variety of retailers. GoudaCheeseShop.com, for instance, offers a wide range of Swiss cheeses, including well-known varieties like Gruyère and Appenzeller, as well as regional specialties. The website provides detailed information about the different types of Swiss cheese, their unique characteristics, and the traditional methods used in their production. GoudaCheeseShop.com also offers worldwide shipping with insured shipments, vacuum packaging to ensure freshness, and competitive prices.
Another option for purchasing Swiss cheese online in India is bigbasket.com, which offers the Fresho Signature Cheese Swiss Gruyere Block. This cheese, originating from Switzerland, is available in a 200-gram block and can be purchased online at a price of Rs 799.
Additionally, Amazon.in also offers Swiss cheese for sale in India. While the specific details about the product and purchasing options are unclear, the website indicates that there are limited quantities available, suggesting that Swiss cheese can be procured through this platform.
Furthermore, Godrej Nature's Basket, an online retailer in India, offers Emmental cheese, which is a type of Swiss cheese, for purchase on their website, naturesbasket.co.in. While the specific origin of the cheese is not mentioned, it is marketed as a product of India, indicating local production or sourcing.
Overall, it is evident that Swiss cheese can be purchased online in India through a variety of retailers, each offering different types of Swiss cheese, shipping options, and purchasing details.
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Indian-made alternatives: Indian-made Emmental cheese is available
Swiss cheese is not typically produced in India, but there are several Indian-made alternatives available, including Indian-made Emmental cheese. Emmental cheese, also known as Emmenthal or Emmentaler, is a type of Swiss cheese that is characterised by its distinctive flavour and holes. While it may not be as easily accessible as some other types of cheese in India, it can be purchased online from retailers such as Godrej Nature's Basket.
There are also several other Indian-made cheeses that can be used as alternatives to Swiss cheese. These include:
- Landana Emmenthal: This cheese is a product of India and can be purchased online. It is a type of Emmental cheese, which is a variety of Swiss cheese.
- Fontina: An Italian cheese made from cow's milk with a medium flavour and a creamy texture. Fontina melts easily and is commonly used in fondue, making it a good substitute for Swiss cheese in recipes such as quiches and Chicken Cordon Bleu. It also has the characteristic holes that Swiss cheese is known for.
- Provolone: Another Italian cheese, Provolone is made in Northern Italy and is one of the few substitutes that shares the buttery flavour of Swiss cheese. It has a smooth texture and is slightly sweet, making it a good choice for sandwiches or casseroles.
- Gouda: A Dutch cheese with a distinct sweet and creamy flavour and texture. Gouda is an excellent melting cheese and can be used in fondue or casseroles. It has a similar texture to Swiss cheese but a nuttier flavour profile.
- Edam: Another Dutch cheese, Edam has a milder flavour than Gouda but a similar creamy texture. It is a good choice for sandwiches or paninis.
- Pecorino Romano: This Italian cheese is made from sheep's milk and has a sharp, pungent flavour. It has a creamy texture that makes it suitable for sandwiches, quiches, and other dishes, but it may not be the best choice for fondue as it does not melt as smoothly as some other cheeses.
- Manchego: A Spanish cheese with a similar sharp flavour to Pecorino Romano, but a softer texture that is more comparable to Swiss cheese. Manchego has a tangier and nuttier flavour that pairs well with many of the same foods, such as cheese boards or appetizers. It can also be added to panini sandwiches for a flavour boost.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Swiss cheese or Emmental cheese is available in India. You can buy it online or look for it in speciality cheese stores.
Swiss cheese is a generic name for several related varieties of medium-hard cheese that resemble Emmental cheese. It has a savoury, but not very sharp taste. Swiss cheese with holes is known as cheese with "eyes", and without holes, it is known as "blind".
The holes in Swiss cheese are caused by the release of carbon dioxide by bacteria when it consumes lactic acid. This forms bubbles, which then turn into air pockets, resulting in the holes. The more the cheese ages, the bigger the bubbles get, leaving behind larger holes.
