Andy Montoya
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to pizzas. It is also a popular choice for cooks as it has a lower fat content than cow's milk cheese. There are two types of goat cheese: fresh and aged. Fresh goat cheese is soft, young, and moist, with a creamy to crumbly texture, while aged goat cheese is ripened over a longer period and has a firmer texture and stronger flavor. When it comes to storage, goat cheese can last for a few weeks to a couple of months if properly wrapped and refrigerated. However, once opened, it should be consumed within a week. To maximize freshness, it is recommended to store it in an airtight container or wrap it in wax paper and then plastic wrap to create a breathable layer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Goat cheese texture | Soft, young, moist, creamy, and crumbly |
| Goat cheese type | Fresh and aged |
| Goat cheese packaging | Vacuum-sealed, aluminium foil, plastic wrap, wax paper |
| Goat cheese storage | Refrigerated, airtight container |
| Goat cheese shelf life | 5-7 days after opening, 2 months unopened |
| Goat cheese smell | Fresh and milky |
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What You'll Learn
Fresh goat cheese should be consumed within a week of opening
Fresh goat cheese is soft, young, and moist, with a creamy to crumbly texture. It is usually packaged in a log shape, but not always. It is known for its bright, tangy flavor and spreadability. Unlike harder, drier cheeses that are aged, soft fresh goat cheese has a lot of moisture, which is an environment that bacteria thrive in.
Goat cheese that is still safe for consumption shouldn't have a strong or sour odor; rather, it should smell fresh and milky. There might be a touch of barnyard in there from the environment in which the goats were raised, but it shouldn't smell offensive. If you notice any mold on it, you should toss the cheese. Likewise, throw it away if it tastes very sour.
Goat cheese, like some cow's milk cheeses, is meant to be aged, so it can be kept for a couple of months if properly wrapped and refrigerated. The ideal aging temperature for cheese is between 50º and 60º F (10º and 15.5º C). Room temperature is above this and will speed up the aging process.
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Goat cheese must be kept refrigerated
Goat cheese is available in two varieties: fresh and aged. Fresh goat cheese is soft, moist, and can range from creamy to crumbly in texture. It is often packaged in a log shape and has a bright, tangy flavour. On the other hand, aged goat cheese is ripened for a longer period, resulting in a slightly firmer texture. It tends to have a stronger flavour with hints of umami and butter.
Fresh goat cheese, being soft and moist, provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Therefore, it is crucial to always keep goat cheese refrigerated to maintain its safety and freshness. According to USDA guidelines, fresh goat cheese should be consumed within seven days of opening to prevent spoilage.
To ensure the longevity of your goat cheese, follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Keep the cheese in the fridge at all times. The ideal temperature range for cheese storage is between 50°F and 60°F (10°C and 15.5°C). Storing cheese at room temperature, which is typically higher, will accelerate the ageing process and promote bacterial growth.
- Airtight Containers: Place the cheese in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
- Consume by "Best By" Date: The "Best By" date on the packaging indicates the period of peak flavour and quality. Consume the cheese by this date to enjoy it at its best. However, it is still safe to consume after this date, although the freshness may diminish.
- Odour and Appearance: Always check the cheese for any offensive odours or mould before consumption. Goat cheese should have a fresh and milky aroma, and a stark-white colour. If it exhibits a strong sour odour or visible mould, discard it.
By following these storage guidelines, you can maximise the shelf life of your goat cheese and enjoy it safely over a longer period.
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Goat cheese is versatile and can be used in salads, soups, pizzas, etc
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, and pizzas.
When it comes to salads, goat cheese can be a delicious addition. For example, a simple green salad with leafy greens, such as arugula or micro greens, can be elevated by adding cranberry-covered goat cheese. The sweetness of the cranberries and the creaminess of the cheese create a unique flavour profile. You can also add other ingredients such as sliced shallots, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing to complement the cheese.
Another option for a goat cheese salad is to use plain goat cheese and add dried sweetened cranberries. Soaking the cranberries in hot water beforehand can soften them and enhance their flavour. This type of salad can be a great way to include more greens in your diet while also enjoying the creaminess and tanginess of goat cheese.
Goat cheese also pairs well with soups, especially those with tangy flavours. For example, a tomato soup with goat cheese can be a delicious and easy-to-make dish. The soup typically includes ingredients such as olive oil, diced onion, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, dried thyme, black pepper, and canned tomatoes with their juices. By blending these ingredients and simmering the soup, you can create a pureed soup base. Adding goat cheese to the soup not only enhances its flavour but also provides a creamy texture.
Additionally, goat cheese is an excellent choice for pizzas, especially when paired with a tangy tomato sauce. To make a goat cheese pizza, you can start by preparing your pizza dough and sauce. Then, spread a thin layer of sauce over the dough, add mozzarella cheese, and top it with generous dollops of goat cheese. You can also add toppings such as red onion slices, dried oregano, and fresh basil. Baking the pizza until the cheese is melted and the crust is browned will create a delicious and irresistible meal.
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Goat cheese should be stored in an airtight container
Goat cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, it only lasts a short while, so it's best to buy only the amount you'll use within a week of opening it. Fresh goat cheese, in particular, has a short shelf life due to its high moisture content, which provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
To maximize the lifespan of goat cheese, proper storage is essential. Goat cheese should be stored in an airtight container, such as a lidded plastic or glass container, to maintain humidity and provide room to breathe. This prevents the cheese from drying out and inhibits the growth of unwanted mold. Plastic wrap should be avoided as it can lead to suffocation and promote mold growth. Instead, wax paper can be used to create a layer of breathability before wrapping the cheese in plastic.
For vacuum-sealed goat cheese, it can be stored unopened in the refrigerator for at least two months. However, once opened, it should be removed from the vacuum packaging and stored in an airtight container. The ideal temperature for storing goat cheese is between 50° and 60° F (10° and 15.5° C), which is slightly lower than room temperature. Storing cheese at room temperature will accelerate the aging process.
It's important to inspect the cheese regularly, especially for aged and softer ripened types, which should be checked every other day or so. If mold is detected, it should be scraped off with a knife, and the cheese should be rewrapped in a fresh layer of wax paper followed by plastic wrap. Additionally, goat cheese should be consumed before the "Best By" date, as indicated on the packaging, to ensure peak flavor and quality.
By following these storage guidelines, you can prolong the freshness and maintain the quality of your goat cheese, allowing you to enjoy its bright, tangy flavor and creamy texture for a longer period.
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Goat cheese is lower in calories than cow's milk cheese
Goat cheese is generally lower in calories than cow's milk cheese. Goat cheese has just 75 calories per ounce, while popular cow's milk cheeses like mozzarella, brie, Swiss, and cheddar have higher calorie counts. For instance, cheddar has 115 calories per ounce. This makes goat cheese a lighter option for those watching their calorie intake.
Goat cheese is also lower in lactose and has a different protein structure compared to cow's milk cheese, making it a good choice for those with mild lactose sensitivity or allergies to cow's milk protein. The lower lactose content and different protein structure mean goat cheese is less likely to trigger adverse reactions. Additionally, goat cheese contains higher levels of antioxidants than cow's milk cheese.
In terms of flavour, goat cheese typically has a slightly stronger and sour taste than cow's milk cheese, which tends to have a milder, creamier flavour. The distinct taste of goat cheese adds depth to dishes like salads, artisanal flatbreads, and appetizers. Its tangy flavour stands out, appealing to those who prefer bold and adventurous flavours.
Goat cheese also differs in texture, being tender and soft, while cow's milk cheese is denser and firmer. The softer texture of goat cheese makes it ideal for crumbling onto salads, pizzas, soups, and roasted vegetables. However, aged goat cheese can be slightly firmer and perfect for melting or slicing.
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Frequently asked questions
Vacuum-wrapped goat cheese can remain unopened for at least two months. Once opened, it must be consumed within a week. Goat cheese that is still safe to eat will smell fresh and milky, and might have a touch of barnyard. If it has a strong or sour smell or taste, it has gone bad.
Goat cheese must be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be wrapped in wax paper and then in plastic wrap to create a layer of breathability.
If there is any mould on the cheese, it should be thrown away. Goat cheese that has gone bad will have a strong or sour smell or taste.
