Kamil Perry
Blue cheese is a polarising food—people either love it or hate it. It's a type of cheese made with blue Penicillium moulds, which can be injected into the curds or spread on the surface. The mould is safe to eat and can improve gut health, but it can be off-putting to some. Blue cheese has a strong, pungent aroma and flavour, and it's both sharp and creamy, tart and sweet. It's a versatile ingredient that can be crumbled, grated, melted, or eaten on its own. It's a popular addition to cheese boards, salads, pasta, and burgers, and it pairs well with fruits like apples and pears. For those who don't like blue cheese, there are many substitutes available, such as feta, goat cheese, and cream cheese, which offer similar textures and flavours without the mould.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Any cheese made with blue Penicillium moulds |
| Most Famous Types | French Roquefort, Italian Gorgonzola |
| Texture | Creamy, dry, crumbly |
| Flavor | Subtle, sharp, intense |
| Storage | Glass jars or sealed plastic bags |
| Substitutes | Feta, goat cheese, cream cheese, ricotta, cheddar, olives, umeboshi paste |
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What You'll Learn
Why is blue cheese so divisive?
Blue cheese is a type of cheese made with blue Penicillium moulds. The most famous blue cheeses are the French Roquefort and the Italian Gorgonzola. Blue cheese is known for its pungent flavour profile and signature ribbons of mould. The mould used in blue cheese is typically Penicillium roqueforti, which is also used in spicy, sour, and piquant cheeses like Roquefort. Another type of blue mould, Penicillium glaucum, has a much milder flavour, tasting like toasted hazelnuts and chocolate.
So, why is blue cheese so divisive? Well, it boils down to personal preference. Some people love the strong, pungent aroma and distinctive blue veins of blue cheese, finding it to be a delicious addition to a cheese board or recipe. Blue cheese is versatile and can be crumbled, grated, melted, or enjoyed on its own. It pairs well with fruits like pears and apples and is commonly added to salads, pasta dishes, and burgers.
On the other hand, some people are turned off by the idea of eating mould. The thought of consuming cheese with visible mould growth can be unappetizing for some. Additionally, blue cheese has a strong flavour and aroma, which may be too intense for those who prefer milder, less pungent cheeses. For those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply not a fan of blue cheese, there are substitute options available, such as feta, goat cheese, or cream cheese.
The divisive nature of blue cheese may also be due to its health implications. While some sources claim that consuming the carefully monitored strains of mould used in cheese can improve gut health, others may be concerned about potential allergies or negative reactions to the mould. Overall, blue cheese is a love-it-or-hate-it food, and people's opinions on it can vary greatly.
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What are some good substitutes for blue cheese?
Blue cheese is a pungent and divisive ingredient, with its strong flavour profile and signature ribbons of blue mould. It is made with the cultures of the mould named Penicillium, which is injected into the curds in a process called interior mould ripening. The cheese gets its blue colour from a process called needling, which involves puncturing tiny holes so that oxygen can penetrate the inside of the cheese, facilitating the development of spores.
There are several reasons why one might want to substitute blue cheese in a recipe. Firstly, it can be an acquired taste due to its strong flavour and smell. Secondly, it may not be suitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions, such as vegans or pregnant women.
If you're looking for an alternative to blue cheese, there are a few options to consider, depending on the desired flavour and texture. Here are some suggestions:
Similar Cheeses
If you're looking for a similar flavour and texture to blue cheese, you can try other types of cheese with a strong flavour and salty, tangy, or sharp taste. Feta, for example, has a dry and crumbly texture similar to blue cheese, and while its flavour is milder and saltier, it can be a good substitute in dishes with other strong flavours. Similarly, goat cheese has a tangy flavour and creamy texture that can work well as a substitute for blue cheese, especially in dishes like salads and dressings. For an even milder option, cream cheese can add creaminess without an overpowering flavour. Other options include aged cheddar, which can add a sharp flavour, or ricotta, which has a creamy texture.
Vegan Alternatives
For those following a vegan diet, there are also several blue cheese alternatives made from plant-based ingredients. These can be made at home using raw cashews, refined coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, white miso paste, and spirulina—an algae that gives the cheese its blue veins.
Non-Dairy Options
If you're looking for a non-dairy option, there are a few creative substitutes that can add a similar flavour or texture to your dish. Roasted walnuts or other nuts like almonds, pine nuts, pistachios, macadamias, or cashews can add a crunchy texture and a hit of flavour. Olives can provide a salty, briny burst of flavour, while a dollop of creamy hummus or chunks of avocado can add a creamy texture and a tangy flavour. Sun-dried tomatoes will also add a burst of flavour and a touch of sweetness to your dish.
In conclusion, while blue cheese has a distinct flavour and texture, there are several alternatives that can be used as substitutes depending on the desired flavour profile and dietary restrictions. These options can help create a similar overall experience in your dishes without the use of blue cheese.
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What are the health benefits of blue cheese?
Blue cheese is a flavoursome fermented cheese with a distinctive tangy taste and creamy texture. It is made using a process called interior mould ripening, where mould strains like Penicillium roqueforti are injected into the curds. Despite being off-putting to some, the mould in blue cheese is safe to eat and can even improve gut health and your internal microbiome.
Blue cheese is rich in nutrients and provides a variety of health benefits. Firstly, it is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for building and maintaining strong and healthy teeth and bones. It also contains other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is important for healthy eyesight and a strong immune system, and B-complex vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and brain function.
In addition, blue cheese contains a compound called spermidine, which may have anti-ageing properties and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. It is also a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues and maintaining muscle mass. Blue cheese is also known for its probiotic benefits, which can support good gut health, boost immunity, and aid in weight management.
Despite these health benefits, blue cheese should be consumed in moderation due to its high levels of salt, saturated fat, calories, and sodium. It is also important to store blue cheese safely and consume it within a few weeks of opening, as spoiled blue cheese can produce harmful substances called mycotoxins.
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How do you store blue cheese?
Blue cheese is a tricky type of cheese to store. The cheese paste is often delicate, with its pierced blue veining, making it more susceptible to oxidation and loss of surface moisture. It is important to note that blue cheese should not be consumed if it has developed pink or black mould, a soft fuzzy coating of mould, or excess moisture in the container. As the flavour intensifies with time, strong medicinal or perfumy flavours may indicate that the cheese is past its prime.
To store blue cheese, it is recommended to maintain a high humidity level of at least 80% to preserve the freshness of the cheese paste. The Cheese Grotto, a specialised storage container, provides a gently aerated and humid environment, preventing moisture from being trapped on the cheese's surface, which can lead to the growth of unwanted bacteria. If using a traditional refrigerator, place the wrapped cheese in a humid section, such as the vegetable drawer, to prevent drying out.
When wrapping blue cheese, avoid using plastic wrap or cheese paper, as these can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth. Instead, opt for breathable options like cheese paper or bee's wrap, ensuring adequate airflow. It is also crucial to store blue cheese separately from other cheeses, as the Penicillium roqueforti mould can spread easily.
Additionally, if you are using a cheese dome to store blue cheese on the counter, remember to lift the dome occasionally to allow fresh air to reach the cheese. Freezing blue cheese is possible but unnecessary, as it has a long shelf life in the fridge. By following these storage guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your blue cheese and enjoy its unique flavour and texture for a more extended period.
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What are some recipes that use blue cheese?
Blue cheese is a polarising ingredient—you either love it or hate it. But if you fall into the former category, there are plenty of recipes that use this potent ingredient.
Blue cheese is a common addition to salads, pastas, and dips. For instance, you could make a refreshing pear pasta dish with blue cheese and fresh pears, or a Christmas salad with arugula, spinach, roasted pecans, strawberries, and a lemon shallot vinaigrette. A blue cheese dip is also a quick and easy recipe that only requires a few ingredients, such as Gorgonzola cheese and toasted pecans.
If you're looking for something more substantial, you could try a comforting steak pie with tender meat, savoury gravy, and molten blue cheese, or a beef Wellington with lean fillet steak spread with Stilton and wrapped in pastry. For a vegetarian option, there's a super-quick pizza with spinach, walnuts, mushrooms, and blue cheese.
And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try some blue cheese-stuffed strawberries or olives? Or, for a real treat, indulge in a cheesecake made with blue cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
Blue cheese has a strong scent that some find off-putting, and it can have an overwhelming piquancy. The butyric acid in blue cheese is also said to be similar to the taste of vomit, which can be unappealing.
Blue cheese has a gently nutty or sweet taste, and it can add an extra kick to a variety of dishes. It also has several health benefits, such as improving bone density and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Try pairing blue cheese with the right food or drink, such as fruit or dessert wine, to help ease yourself into enjoying it.
Some popular blue cheeses include British Stilton, French Roquefort, and Spanish Valdeon. At the World Cheese Awards in 2021, the winning cheese was Rogue River Blue from Oregon's Rogue Creamery.
