Goat Cheese Crumbles: How Long Do They Last?

Crumbled goat cheese, also known as chevre, is a versatile ingredient used in sweet and savoury dishes. It is made from goat's milk and has a distinctive earthy flavour and smooth, velvety texture. When it comes to storage, it's important to note that goat cheese crumbles should always be kept refrigerated, even when unopened. An unopened package will typically last for 3 to 6 months, while an opened package will only last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. To extend the shelf life, freezing is an option, but it may alter the texture and flavour of the cheese. At room temperature, goat cheese crumbles should not be left out for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can quickly grow and spoil the cheese.

Goat cheese crumbles storage

Goat cheese crumbles, also known as chevre, are small broken pieces of soft goat cheese made from goat's milk. This tangy and creamy cheese is a versatile ingredient used in sweet and savoury dishes.

Storage

Goat cheese crumbles should always be stored in the refrigerator at a consistent temperature of 40°F or lower. When storing opened cheese, transfer it to an airtight container before refrigerating to prevent it from drying out and to protect it from odours of other foods. Wrap the cheese tightly in parchment paper, then in loose plastic wrap to maintain optimum moisture while allowing the cheese to breathe. Do not use aluminum foil as it can give the cheese a metallic taste.

Opened goat cheese crumbles should be consumed within two weeks, as exposure to air can hasten spoilage. Goat cheese crumbles can be frozen, but this is not usually recommended as it can drastically alter the texture, making it less pleasant to eat when defrosted. However, if you do choose to freeze your goat cheese crumbles, seal the original packaging tightly and place it in the freezer. If freezing for longer than 2 months, place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Frozen goat cheese is best suited for cooked dishes such as sauces, soups, and casseroles.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of unopened goat cheese crumbles is about 1 week after the 'Sell By' or 'Best By' date on the package, and 3-6 months for best quality. Once opened, the cheese should be consumed within two weeks. Goat cheese crumbles that have been kept frozen at 0°F will remain safe indefinitely.

How to tell if goat cheese crumbles are bad

Goat cheese is a delicious and creamy dairy product that is a terrific complement to any cheeseboard. It has a distinct earthy smell and is a little funkier than other cheeses. While it is a great addition to your meals, it is important to know if your goat cheese has gone bad to avoid foodborne illness.

• Look at the colour of the cheese: Goat cheese is initially white and gradually turns slightly yellow as it ages. If your goat cheese has turned yellowish or brownish, it is likely a sign that it has gone bad.
• Check for mould: If there is any mould on the cheese, it is best to discard it. Goat cheese with orange, blue, or red mould is especially dangerous and should not be consumed. If the mould is white or blue, it is likely safe to consume the cheese after removing the mouldy parts.
• Examine the texture: If the cheese feels slimy, rubbery, or sticky, it has likely gone bad.
• Smell the cheese: Goat cheese has a distinct earthy and grassy farm-like smell. If it smells pungent, sour, musty, or moldy, it is likely a sign of spoilage.
• Taste (only if needed): Take a small piece of the cheese and taste it. If it tastes sour or has an unpleasant aftertaste, the cheese has likely gone bad.

It is important to note that goat cheese should be stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maximize its shelf life.

Goat cheese crumbles freezing

Goat cheese crumbles can be frozen and doing so can make them firmer and more crumbly. This is a great way to store them for longer than the two to three weeks they last in the refrigerator.

To freeze goat cheese crumbles, start by ensuring the cheese is as dry as possible. Then, transfer the cheese to a freezer-safe container or bag, or use a vacuum-sealed bag. If you are freezing an opened package, separate the cheese into portions that you are likely to use, and place them in individual containers or bags.

Seal the container or bag tightly, ensuring that the cheese is wrapped and sealed as well as possible. Label the package with the date, and place it in the freezer.

Goat cheese crumbles will maintain their best quality for about six months, but they will remain safe to eat beyond this timeframe. When you are ready to use the cheese, remove it from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours.

Frozen goat cheese is best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups, and casseroles, as it may lose some of its texture and flavour during the freezing process.

Goat cheese crumbles health benefits

Goat cheese crumbles are a popular alternative to cow's milk cheese. They are easy to find in most supermarkets and health food stores, and their nutritional benefits make them a great choice for anyone looking to diversify their palate.

Goat cheese crumbles are packed with vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats. They are a good source of calcium, which helps build and strengthen bones and may protect against cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Goat cheese also contains riboflavin (vitamin B2), which is important for the production and functioning of new cells.

Additionally, goat cheese crumbles have many other health benefits:

• The fatty acids in goat cheese are metabolized faster than those in cow's cheese, leading to increased feelings of satiety and reduced hunger.
• Goat cheese contains only A2 beta casein, while cow's milk contains both A1 and A2 beta casein. This makes goat cheese easier to digest for some people.
• Goat cheese is full of beneficial probiotics, which improve gut health and boost immunity.
• Goat cheese is a good source of selenium, a trace mineral that helps the body break down DNA-damaging peroxides, reducing the risk of cancer, thyroid disease, and cardiovascular disease.

Goat cheese crumbles can be added to salads, pizzas, eggs, and many other dishes. They are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can enhance the flavor and texture of both sweet and savory dishes.

In terms of storage, commercially packaged unopened goat cheese crumbles will last about 1 week after the "Sell By" or "Best By" date on the package. They should be refrigerated at all times and will maintain their best quality for about 6 months in the freezer.

Goat cheese crumbles serving suggestions

Goat cheese crumbles are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious cheese:

Salads

A classic way to use goat cheese crumbles is to sprinkle them over a salad. The cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavour to your greens. Try a simple combination of mixed leaves, tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette, topped with goat cheese crumbles for a tasty lunch.

Pastas

Goat cheese crumbles can also be used in pasta dishes. Try mixing them into a pasta salad with roasted vegetables and a light vinaigrette, or sprinkle over hot pasta with some olive oil, garlic, and red chilli flakes for a quick and easy dinner.

Pizzas

Goat cheese crumbles can be used as a topping for pizza, adding a creamy, tangy flavour. They work particularly well with vegetable toppings such as spinach, mushrooms, and peppers.

Soups

Add some goat cheese crumbles to your favourite soup to give it a flavour boost. They work well with creamy soups, such as tomato or butternut squash, or sprinkled over a hearty vegetable soup.

Snacks and Appetizers

Goat cheese crumbles can be used as a snack on their own or as part of a larger spread. Try serving them with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks, along with some nuts, olives, and charcuterie.

Cooking and Baking

Goat cheese crumbles can also be used in cooking and baking. They can be added to quiches, casseroles, or sauces to give a creamy texture and a tangy flavour.

When using goat cheese crumbles, it is important to note that they should be stored properly to maintain their quality and freshness. Keep them refrigerated at all times and consume within a few days of opening.

Frequently asked questions