Patrick Oconnell
Cheddar cheese is one of the most famous and well-known cheeses in the Western world, and it is Australia's most popular cheese. It is a natural, relatively hard cheese that originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, South West England. Cheddar is produced all over the world, and its name does not have a protected designation of origin. In addition to the United Kingdom, cheddar is also made in Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden, Finland, Uruguay, and the United States. As of 2013, cheddar accounted for over 55% of the Australian cheese market, with an average annual consumption of 7.5 kg per person.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | England |
| Popularity in Australia | Australia's most popular cheese; accounts for over 55% of the Australian cheese market |
| Average annual consumption in Australia | 7.5 kg per person |
| Cheddar cheese production in Australia | Introduced by Henry and William Harding |
| Cheddar cheese brands in Australia | Bega, Coles, Cracker Barrel, King Island, Woolworths, etc. |
| Cheddar cheese types | Vintage, aged, mild, etc. |
| Cheddar cheese characteristics | Relatively hard, off-white, sometimes sharp-tasting |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- Cheddar is Australia's most popular cheese
- Vintage cheddar is matured for 12-24 months
- Cheddar is versatile and can be used in many dishes
- Kraft Walker Cheese Co. made processed cheddar in Australia
- You can find a good variety of cheddars at Penny's Cheese Shop in Sydney or at supermarkets like IGA, Woolworths, and Colesworth
Cheddar is Australia's most popular cheese
Cheddar is produced in many countries worldwide, and the style and quality of cheeses labelled as cheddar vary greatly. The flavour, colour, and quality of industrial cheddar vary significantly, and food packaging usually indicates strength, such as mild, medium, strong, tasty, sharp, extra sharp, mature, old, or vintage. These terms indicate the maturation period or food additives used to enhance the flavour. Artisan varieties of cheddar develop strong and diverse flavours over time.
In Australia, cheddar is available in supermarkets, delis, and specialty cheese shops. Some popular brands of cheddar in Australia include Bega, Coles, and Cracker Barrel. The average annual consumption of cheddar in Australia is around 7.5 kg per person, contributing to the more than 250,000 tonnes of cheese sold within the country annually.
Cheddar is a natural cheese that is relatively hard and off-white, or orange if colourings such as annatto are added. It originates from the English village of Cheddar in Somerset, South West England, and was introduced to Australia by Henry and William Harding, who were responsible for facilitating the establishment of the cheese industry in the country.
Mild Sharp Cheddar: Techniques to Tame Tangy Cheese
You may want to see also
Vintage cheddar is matured for 12-24 months
Cheddar cheese is a relatively hard, natural cheese that is off-white or orange if colourings such as annatto are added. It originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, South West England, and is now produced all over the world. The name "cheddar" has no protected designation of origin, and the style and quality of cheeses labelled as cheddar vary greatly.
Vintage cheddar is a type of extra-mature cheddar that is sometimes called strong cheddar. It is matured for 12 to 24 months, or even longer, to develop a deeper flavour and more complex flavour profile. The cheese is kept at a constant temperature, often requiring special facilities. As with other hard cheese varieties produced globally, caves are an ideal environment for maturing cheddar. Some versions of cheddar are also smoked.
The ideal quality of the original Somerset cheddar was described by Joseph Harding in 1864 as having a "close and firm texture, yet mellow in character or quality; it is rich with a tendency to melt in the mouth, the flavour full and fine, approaching that of a hazelnut". Cheddar made in the classical way tends to have a sharp, pungent flavour, often slightly earthy. The sharpness of cheddar is associated with the levels of bitter peptides in the cheese. This bitterness is significant to the overall perception of the aged cheddar flavour.
Vintage cheddar, matured for at least 12 months, has a low lactose content of less than 0.1%. Extending the maturation time allows the cheese to develop a more vibrant, nutty flavour.
Cheddar Cheese Crystals: What Are These?
You may want to see also
Cheddar is versatile and can be used in many dishes
Cheddar cheese is one of the most famous and versatile cheeses, and it is used in dishes all over the world. It is produced in many countries, including Australia, and is the most popular cheese in the country. Cheddar is a relatively hard, off-white cheese, sometimes orange if colourings such as annatto are added, and is often sharp-tasting. The name "cheddar cheese" does not have a protected designation of origin, and the style and quality of cheeses labelled as cheddar vary greatly.
Cheddar is used in many recipes and can be the star of the dish, or a complementary ingredient. It can be grated or shredded and added to dishes, or melted and oozing as a topping. It is a popular choice for savoury dishes, such as quiches, pies, soups, and sandwiches. For example, a quiche with streaky bacon, soft leeks, and plenty of cheddar, or a comforting crab mac 'n' cheese with crème fraîche in the béchamel sauce. For a lighter option, cheddar can be used in a salad, such as a broccoli or cauliflower cheese salad, or served with fresh bread.
Cheddar is also a popular choice for comfort foods and baked dishes. It can be used in a variety of baked potato recipes, such as twice-baked potatoes with a crunchy topping of garlic breadcrumbs, or potatoes loaded with cheddar, smoked haddock, and spring onions. For a heartier option, try a tuna pasta bake with chilli flakes and rosemary, topped with melted mature cheddar.
Cheddar can also be used in more unexpected ways, such as in sweet and savoury dishes. It can be combined with caramel for a sweet and salty popcorn, or used in an apple pie with cheese baked into the crust. For a savoury option, cheddar can be used in flapjacks with Marmite for an umami flavour, or in savoury scones with walnuts or pecans.
Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from comfort foods to more unexpected combinations, making it a popular choice for cooks and cheese lovers alike.
The Mystery Behind Velveeta: Cheddar or American?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Kraft Walker Cheese Co. made processed cheddar in Australia
Cheddar cheese is a natural, relatively hard cheese that originates from the village of Cheddar in Somerset, South West England. It is one of the most famous cheeses in the world and is Australia's most popular cheese. In 2013, cheddar accounted for over 55% of the Australian cheese market, with an average annual consumption of around 7.5 kg per person.
In 1925, Melbourne entrepreneur Fred Walker travelled to the USA and obtained the Australian rights for Kraft Cheddar processed cheese. The Kraft Walker Cheese Co. was then formed in Melbourne in 1926, as a partnership between Fred Walker and James L. Kraft. The company initially planned to buy cheddar cheese from existing manufacturers, which would then be ground, pasteurised, and reformed into the rectangular loaves of Kraft Cheddar that were convenient for packaging. However, the ultimate goal was always to make their own cheese.
The first factory was located in Victoria, with plans to expand into other Australian states and New Zealand. In November 1934, Kraft Walker leased a factory owned by Warrnambool Cheese and Butter in Allansford, which they soon expanded. In 1931, the company launched a cheese known as "Red Coon", which was coated with red wax and later replaced with cellophane. The red stripe in the current logo is a reference to the original packaging. Red Coon was described as "mature cheese" in many advertisements and articles in the 1950s, although one article explicitly stated that it was not a cheddar cheese.
In 1951, a new Kraft-Walker factory was opened in Northgate, Brisbane, primarily for the manufacture of processed cheese. This included the production of Red Coon cheese, which was described as a "robust flavour men really appreciate" in a 1959 advertisement.
The Magic of High-Temp Cheddar Cheese: Melty, Stretchy, Delicious
You may want to see also
You can find a good variety of cheddars at Penny's Cheese Shop in Sydney or at supermarkets like IGA, Woolworths, and Colesworth
Australia has a wide variety of cheddar cheeses available, and you can find a great selection at Penny's Cheese Shop in Sydney. Penny's Cheese Shop is a one-stop shop for cheese enthusiasts, offering a range of local and international cheeses, including cheddar. The shop also provides catering services and can help you build impressive cheese towers for your next event.
Additionally, you can find a good selection of cheddar cheeses at supermarkets like IGA, Woolworths, and Colesworth. IGA, or Independent Grocers Alliance, supports local, family-owned businesses and offers a range of fresh, local products, including cheddar cheese. Woolworths and Colesworth, the two largest supermarket chains in Australia, also stock a variety of cheddar cheeses.
At Penny's Cheese Shop, you can explore a diverse range of cheddars, both local and imported. The shop sources its cheeses from various regions, ensuring a unique selection for its customers. You can also find other cheese varieties, such as blue cheese, goat's cheese, and mixed milk cheeses. The shop caters to all your cheese needs, whether you're looking for a sandwich filler or something to melt over potatoes.
For those who enjoy exploring different flavours and supporting local businesses, IGA is an excellent option. You can find a range of cheddar cheeses from local producers, supporting the community and enjoying fresh, high-quality products. IGA's commitment to diversity and inclusivity also makes it a welcoming shopping experience for all.
Woolworths and Colesworth, as the two major supermarket chains in Australia, offer a wide range of products, including a good selection of cheddar cheeses. While they have been subject to discussions around pricing practices and competition, they remain convenient options for customers seeking everyday grocery items, including cheddar cheese.
The Perfect Pairing Partners for Cheddar Cheese
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Australia has cheddar cheese. In fact, cheddar is Australia's most popular cheese.
You can buy cheddar cheese at most supermarkets in Australia, including Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi.
Some Australian cheddars include King Island smoked cheddar, and the former Coon "Tasty" cheese, now rebranded as Cheer cheese.
Some Australian cheeses that are similar to cheddar include Cheshire and Red Leicester.
