Goat Cheese In Oil: How Long Does It Last?

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste. Its shelf life is influenced by factors such as type, packaging, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened. When stored correctly in the fridge, unopened goat cheese can retain peak quality for a few weeks past its printed date. However, once opened, it is best consumed within one to two weeks. To extend the shelf life of goat cheese, it can be stored in olive oil, which will keep it moist and fresh while adding flavour. When goat cheese is covered in olive oil, it can last for a few weeks in the refrigerator.

Goat cheese in oil: How long does it last?

Goat cheese is a versatile and popular dairy product, known for its soft texture and tangy taste. Its shelf life depends on multiple factors, including its type, packaging, storage conditions, and whether it has been opened.

Storing Goat Cheese in Oil

Goat cheese can be stored in oil to extend its shelf life. When goat cheese begins to age, placing it in a small bowl and covering it with a few tablespoons of olive oil will keep it moist and fresh, while also adding an interesting flavour to the cheese. If the goat cheese is completely submerged in olive oil, it can last for a few weeks in the refrigerator.

Storing Unopened Goat Cheese

Unopened goat cheese can generally retain its peak quality for a few weeks past its printed date when stored correctly in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing goat cheese is between 34°F and 45°F. Goat cheese should be stored in the less-cold part of the refrigerator, such as the vegetable drawer, to avoid freezing.

Storing Opened Goat Cheese

Once opened, goat cheese is best consumed within one to two weeks. To store opened goat cheese, it should be wrapped in wax or parchment paper, which allows the cheese to breathe while maintaining its humidity level. It should then be placed in an airtight container or ziplock bag to prevent it from absorbing other flavours from the refrigerator.

Freezing Goat Cheese

Freezing is an option for those interested in longer storage durations. Freezing goat cheese can extend its palatability for several months, although there may be potential changes to its texture and flavour. To freeze goat cheese, wrap it tightly in wax paper, place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and label it with the date. Thaw frozen goat cheese in the refrigerator overnight before using it, and consume it within a few days for the best quality.

How to store goat cheese in oil

Storing goat cheese in oil can be a great way to preserve its freshness and enhance its flavour. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to do it:

Choosing the Right Goat Cheese

The first step is to select the right type of goat cheese. Fresh goat cheese, which is often soft and spreadable, pairs well with the oil marinade. Harder varieties, such as aged goat cheese, may also be used but will result in a different texture and taste experience.

Preparing the Goat Cheese

Before storing the goat cheese in oil, it is essential to cut it into suitable portions. You can cut the cheese into 1-inch thick discs or roll it into small balls. This step will ensure that the cheese is completely submerged in the oil, which is crucial for effective preservation.

Selecting the Oil and Additives

Extra virgin olive oil is an excellent choice for marinating goat cheese due to its distinct flavour and ability to preserve the cheese. You can also experiment with other oils, such as walnut oil, to find your preferred taste. Additionally, consider adding fresh or dried herbs, spices, and other ingredients to create unique flavour combinations. Some popular options include garlic, green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves.

Marinating the Goat Cheese

Combine the oil and any chosen additives in a glass jar or a bowl with a lid. Gently place the prepared goat cheese into the mixture, ensuring that it is completely covered by the oil. Allow the cheese to marinate for at least one hour. For longer marination, it is best to store the container in the refrigerator. The cheese can be eaten cold, or you can heat it in the oven along with the oil for a warm treat.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage of marinated goat cheese is essential to maintain its freshness. Always keep the cheese submerged in oil and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When stored this way, the goat cheese can last for a few weeks. However, it is recommended to consume it within a reasonable timeframe to enjoy it at its best.

Serving Suggestions

When serving goat cheese stored in oil, allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavour and texture. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a crusty loaf of bread. The flavoured oil can also be used for cooking, such as sautéing vegetables or making salad dressings.

The ideal temperature for storing goat cheese

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a distinct soft texture and tangy taste. To preserve its quality, it is essential to store it at the correct temperature. The ideal storage temperature range for goat cheese is between 34°F and 40°F (approximately 1.1°C and 4.4°C) or 4°C (39°F). Maintaining a consistent temperature within this range will help ensure the cheese remains fresh and safe to consume.

Storing goat cheese at the correct temperature is crucial in preventing bacterial growth and food poisoning. Goat cheese should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours, as this increases the risk of bacterial contamination. The ideal temperature range for a refrigerator is lower than that required for the optimal ageing of cheese. While room temperature is ideal for ageing cheese, it will cause goat cheese to spoil.

To achieve the ideal temperature for storing goat cheese, it is recommended to utilise the vegetable crisper drawer in your refrigerator. This area tends to have higher humidity levels, which are ideal for cheese storage. Additionally, storing goat cheese in an airtight container or ziplock bag can help maintain the desired temperature and humidity levels.

When storing goat cheese for the long term, freezing is an option. However, it is important to note that freezing may alter the texture and taste of the cheese. For optimal results, freeze the cheese in small portions, wrap it tightly, and store it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. To thaw frozen goat cheese, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to warm up slowly, which may take several hours or even a full day. Consume thawed goat cheese within a few days to ensure the best quality.

How to tell if goat cheese has gone bad

Goat cheese is a versatile dairy product with a soft texture and tangy taste. When stored properly, it can last for a few weeks to several months. However, it's important to know how to tell if the cheese has gone bad. Here are some signs to look out for:

Smell

A fresh goat cheese should have a clean and mildly tangy scent. If it starts to emit a sour or foul odour, it's a sign that the cheese is past its prime and should be discarded.

Texture

The texture of goat cheese should be consistent with its type, whether creamy or firm. If the cheese appears excessively dry, slimy, or shows signs of mould, it has spoiled.

Taste

The flavour profile of goat cheese is typically tangy and savoury. If the cheese develops a sour or bitter taste, it is no longer safe to eat.

Visual inspection

The presence of mould on goat cheese is a clear indication that it has gone bad. Mould can appear in various colours, including white, green, black, or pink. Discolouration or a slimy texture are also signs of spoilage.

Storage conditions

Goat cheese should be stored properly to maintain its quality and freshness. It is best kept in the refrigerator, wrapped in wax or parchment paper, and placed in an airtight container. The ideal storage temperature is between 34°F and 40°F (approximately 4°C). If stored properly, unopened goat cheese can last up to two months, while opened packages should be consumed within two weeks.

Expiration dates

Expiration dates on goat cheese are guidelines for optimal freshness. Even if the cheese is past its expiration date, it may still be safe to consume if there are no signs of spoilage, such as mould or an off-odour. However, proper storage conditions are crucial to maintaining its safety.

Recipes for goat cheese in oil

Goat cheese in oil is a versatile dish that can be used as an appetizer, salad topping, sandwich spread, or even as a gift. The combination of fresh goat cheese, herbs, and olive oil is addictive and can be made in several ways. Here are some recipes and tips to get you started:

Marinated Goat Cheese in Olive Oil:

This recipe is adapted from Jennifer Meier, a food writer, and cookbook author. It serves 2 to 4 people and is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 ounces of goat cheese (cut into 1-inch thick discs or rolled into small balls)
• 1 cup of olive oil (or enough to submerge the cheese)
• 1 tablespoon of thyme (fresh or finely chopped fresh oregano)
• 2 teaspoons of chives (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup of parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
• Dash of sea salt (to taste)

Instructions:

• Combine the olive oil, thyme, chives, parsley, and fennel seeds in a glass jar or a bowl with a lid.
• Drop or gently place the goat cheese into the olive oil.
• Let the cheese marinate in the refrigerator or on the counter for at least one hour. If marinating for longer than 1 hour, put the cheese in the refrigerator.
• Before serving, sprinkle sea salt over the cheese.
• Marinated goat cheese can be eaten cold or heated together with the olive oil in an oven at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or until warm.
• Serve with a crusty loaf of bread.

Herb Marinated Goat Cheese:

This recipe is from The Café Sucre Farine, a food blog with healthy and delicious recipes. It's an easy and beautiful appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons of finely minced fresh herbs (rosemary, parsley, thyme, dill, mint, or basil), divided
• 2 tablespoons of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 clove of garlic, halved and sliced paper-thin
• Half of a small lemon, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
• 6-ounce log of goat cheese
• Toasted pine nuts, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• Combine the olive oil, half of the fresh herbs, half of the sun-dried tomatoes, the garlic, lemon slices, and salt in a small bowl or ramekin.
• Combine the reserved herbs and sun-dried tomatoes and spread them on a cutting board. Roll the goat cheese log in the herbs and pat gently so they adhere.
• Place the goat cheese into the oil mixture and spoon some of the oil over the cheese.
• Allow the goat cheese to marinate for an hour at room temperature or several hours in the refrigerator. Spoon some of the oil over the cheese occasionally while it marinates.
• Sprinkle the cheese with sea salt and pine nuts (if using).
• Serve at room temperature with crackers, crostini, or thickly cut baguette slices.
• This appetizer can be made a day or two in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap and pull it out of the fridge about 45 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Goat cheese in oil can be served in many ways, such as on toasted, whole-grain bread with a jammy egg, on grilled chicken breasts, in a salad, as a sandwich spread, or crumbled on pizza.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil, chives, garlic, lemon zest, mint, parsley, rosemary, or sage.
• Spice blends like herbes de Provence, za'atar, or dukkah also pair well with goat cheese.
• For some crunch and extra flavor, add chopped almonds, pistachios, walnuts, or pecans.
• A drizzle of honey or chopped dried apricots or cherries can also be a delicious addition.
• If you want to gift your goat cheese in oil, slice the goat cheese into rounds, place them in a jar, and pour the oil over the top. Include a fresh baguette for a complete present.

Frequently asked questions