The Best Time To Enjoy Ellsworth Cheese Curds

Ellsworth cheese curds are famous for their freshness and flavour. They are produced in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, which has been officially dubbed the Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin. The curds are crafted from rBST-free milk sourced from 250 family farms across Wisconsin and Minnesota. The unique packaging process employed by Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery ensures a shelf life of over six months for the unopened cheese curds, with the flavour intensifying over time. The curds are also high in calcium and protein, making them a healthy snack option.

Shelf life: unopened, they last over 6 months in the fridge

Cheese curds are a beloved snack with a unique texture and flavour. When it comes to storing them, the right methods can make all the difference in preserving their freshness and taste.

Shelf Life of Ellsworth Cheese Curds:

The shelf life of unopened Ellsworth cheese curds is quite impressive. When kept refrigerated and unopened, these cheese curds can last for over 6 months. This extended shelf life is due to their unique packaging process, which involves removing oxygen from the bags while loosely packaging the cheese. This packaging method ensures the cheese remains fresh and flavourful for several months.

The Impact of Sealed Packaging:

The longer the Ellsworth cheese curds remain sealed in their original packaging, the more enriched the cheddar flavour becomes. Over time, the cheese inside the package develops a tangier taste, enhancing the overall sensory experience. This gradual transformation ensures that even after several months, you can enjoy a flavourful bite with a satisfying squeak.

Storage Recommendations:

To make the most of the shelf life of your unopened Ellsworth cheese curds, it is essential to store them properly. Here are some recommendations:

• Refrigerate: Ensure the cheese curds are kept in a refrigerator at a consistent temperature between 34°F and 38°F (1°C and 3°C). This temperature range will help maintain their freshness.
• Original Packaging: Keep the cheese curds in their original, unopened packaging. This packaging is designed to maintain the ideal moisture level and prevent excessive drying of the cheese.
• Avoid Temperature Fluctuations: Aim to minimise temperature fluctuations by placing the cheese curds in the coldest part of your refrigerator, such as the back of the lower shelf or the crisper drawer.
• Avoid Odour Contamination: Store the cheese curds away from strong-smelling foods in the refrigerator to prevent them from absorbing unwanted odours.

Flavours: natural, ranch, garlic, hot buffalo, and Cajun

Ellsworth cheese curds come in a variety of flavours, including natural, ranch, garlic, hot buffalo, and Cajun. These cheese curds are crafted with care and offer a unique taste experience, combining the creamy goodness of cheese with exciting flavours.

The natural cheese curds are a classic choice, made with rBST-free milk from family farms in Wisconsin and Minnesota. They have a mild, creamy flavour and a farm-fresh "squeakiness" that is enhanced when microwaved for a few seconds. The natural curds are available in 2-ounce snack packs, as well as 5-ounce and 1-pound vacuum-sealed retail packaging.

For those who enjoy a tangy kick, the ranch-flavoured cheese curds are a perfect choice. The mild and tangy ranch seasoning adds a delightful twist to the creamy cheese. These curds are available in 5-ounce and 16-ounce packages, making them a convenient and tasty snack or salad topping.

Garlic cheese curds offer a punchy flavour that garlic lovers will surely enjoy. The granulated garlic in these curds provides a strong, savoury taste. The 16-ounce package is a popular choice for those who want to add a punch to their recipes or enjoy a bold snack.

If you're a fan of spicy flavours, the Hot Buffalo cheese curds are an excellent option. They combine the popular flavour of buffalo wings with the creamy texture of cheese curds, resulting in a tasty treat that brings a bead of sweat to your brow. The 5-ounce package is perfect for those who want to add some heat to their snacks or meals.

Last but not least, the Cajun cheese curds offer a spicy and flavourful experience. The Cajun seasoning adds a kick to the premium cheddar cheese curds, creating a unique and exciting flavour profile. The 16-ounce package is a popular choice for those who want to add a little spice to their dishes or enjoy a fun, jazzed-up appetizer.

Ingredients: pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and natamycin

Ellsworth cheese curds are made from a few simple ingredients: pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and natamycin. Here is a more detailed breakdown of each ingredient:

Pasteurized Milk

Pasteurization is a process of heating milk to a specific temperature for a set period to kill harmful bacteria, such as those that cause listeriosis, typhoid fever, and tuberculosis. This process ensures that the milk used for cheese curds is safe and nutrient-rich. While pasteurization is a standard practice for milk and cheese production, some people believe that raw, unpasteurized milk is a healthier alternative. However, according to the Louisiana Department of Health, pasteurization does not reduce milk's nutritional value and does not cause lactose intolerance or allergic reactions.

Cheese Cultures

Cheese cultures are a group of specific bacteria strains combined to make a particular type of cheese. They aid in the transformation of milk into cheese by raising its acidity. The cultures help good bacteria flourish, leading to a more developed flavor. The two main types of cheese cultures are mesophilic and thermophilic, which differ in their preferred temperature ranges. Mesophilic cultures work at moderate temperatures up to 90°F and are commonly used for hard cheeses like Cheddar, while thermophilic cultures are heat-loving and work at temperatures between 68-125°F, making them suitable for cheeses like Mozzarella.

Salt

Salt is added to cheese curds for flavor and to enhance their preservation. Salt helps draw out moisture, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and extending the shelf life of the curds. It also balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste experience.

Enzymes

Enzymes are bacterial cultures in the cheese that aid in the coagulation process. They can be of animal, microbial, or vegetable origin, and their inclusion in the ingredients list is often a catch-all term for catalysts of any type.

Natamycin

Natamycin is a natural preservative derived from the microorganism Streptomyces natalensis. It is commonly used in cheese and other food products like yogurt, sausages, and juices to prevent mold and yeast growth. Natamycin is preferred over other preservatives as it is colorless and odorless. It is recognized as safe by organizations like the World Health Organization and the Food and Drug Administration.

Preparation: microwave for a few seconds to restore freshness

If you're looking to restore the freshness of your Ellsworth cheese curds, follow these simple steps:

Place the desired amount of cheese curds on a microwave-safe plate. Make sure the plate is not made of paper, as this could be unsafe. While a specific number of cheese curds is not provided, a review suggests placing 5 or 6 on a plate and microwaving until the edges are brown.

Next, microwave the cheese curds for a few seconds. The exact time will depend on your microwave's power and the number of cheese curds you are preparing. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook or burn.

Once the cheese curds are slightly melted and squeaky, they are ready to be enjoyed! The microwaving process will enhance their fresh, creamy texture and bring out their flavour.

It is important to note that this preparation method is intended for the standard Natural Cheddar Cheese Curds. If you are preparing flavoured Ellsworth cheese curds, such as the Garlic, Ranch, Cajun, or Dill Pickle varieties, the microwaving instructions may vary. Always refer to the packaging for specific instructions for your particular product.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the signature squeakiness and freshness of Ellsworth cheese curds, straight from your microwave to your snack plate or recipe!

Serving suggestions: crumble over salads, fry, or eat straight from the bag

Ellsworth cheese curds are a versatile snack with a range of serving suggestions. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

Crumble Over Salads

Sprinkle cheese curds over your salad for a tasty, tangy twist. The high-protein, low-carb cheese curds will add a chewy texture and a big cheesy flavour to your greens. For an extra kick, try the ranch-flavoured cheese curds to take your salad to the next level.

Fry

For a classic, crispy treat, fry your cheese curds. This is a great way to enjoy them as a snack or appetiser, perhaps paired with a beer. Frying the cheese curds can also be a delicious addition to a burger or a poutine—a belly-filling combination of fries, gravy, and melted cheese curds.

Eat Straight from the Bag

For a quick, convenient, and satisfying snack, eat your cheese curds straight from the bag. The fresher the curds, the more they will "squeak" between your teeth, a unique and enjoyable texture. Cheese curds are also a great addition to a cheese plate or charcuterie board, especially if you want to showcase their distinctive milky, white colour.

Other Serving Suggestions

In addition to the above, Ellsworth cheese curds can be a versatile ingredient in a range of recipes. You can substitute shredded cheese with cheese curds to add a chewy texture to dishes like meatloaf, pizza, and other hot dishes. They can also be a tasty addition to a grilled cheese sandwich, providing a super stretchy, melty texture. For a unique breakfast, try adding a few cheese curds to your coffee—let them warm up without melting, and then spoon them out.

Frequently asked questions